Thanksgiving is the perfect holiday to bring your family together with comforting dishes. However, feeling included in such an important holiday can be hard for those with a gluten allergy. Thankfully, here are some easy options for creating a gluten-free Thanksgiving meal that will keep everyone at the table happy.
Savory Starters
Begin the feast with roasted butternut squash soup or a vibrant autumn salad, both naturally gluten-free. Gluten-free rolls or baguettes can also be found at any grocery store, and enhanced by serving warm with garlic butter.
The Turkey
Although traditional turkeys are gluten-free, it is essential to avoid filling them with gluten-filled dressing and stuffing. An excellent gluten-free stuffing can be made from rice, cornbread, or roasted vegetables, and flavored with rosemary, thyme, and mustard powder for a classic, smoky flavor.
Shining Side Dishes
On occasion, the sides can outshine the turkey, and many of them can be altered and made gluten-free. Creamy mashed potatoes can be made without flour, and roasted brussel sprouts, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free. A balsamic glaze can enhance the flavor of any of these sides and add that Thanksgiving flare. If green bean casserole is a family favorite, swap the cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and avoid the fried onions, or swap those out for gluten-free ones as well!
All the Fixens
Everyone knows that for this holiday the sauce is the boss. Gravy can easily be made gluten-free by using cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour. Cranberry sauce, whether made fresh or store bought, is already gluten-free!
Finish Sweet
Thanksgiving doesn’t exist without a pumpkin pie to finish the meal, and it can be made gluten-free with a pre-made gluten-free crust or one you make from scratch. Trader Joe’s also offers decadent gluten-free pumpkin muffins that will spice up your holiday season. Grain-free maple pecan pie is also an option for those who do not fancy pumpkins, and baked pears with cinnamon and honey are not only gluten-free, but also peanut and dairy-free as well.
With these gluten-free dishes, you can create a Thanksgiving meal that is both delicious and inclusive. A few thoughtful substitutions will ensure a feast full of flavor for all your gluten-free guests.