Whether you have food sensitivities or are trying to watch calorie intake, this time of year can be quite difficult. If you are hosting a holiday party, you obviously have more control over the selection and you can alter the menu to work with your gluten, dairy or other food allergies and can alter recipes to be more calorie conscious
Here are a few fun menu ideas:
- Fresh fruit and veggie platters are always appreciated. Use a dairy free ranch or hummus
- If you can do seafood, fresh seafood and sushi is wonderful gluten free, dairy free option and many grocery stores have pre-made platters.
- Sweet potato bar – set out mashed sweet potatoes with an ice cream scoop and fun margarita or martini glasses for serving. Include a variety of toppings like green onion, chopped bacon, dairy free or light cheese, grilled vegetables and shredded coconut and pecans.
- Soup bar – Choose soups with a variety of colors as well as tastes and ingredients to please meat eaters, vegans, gluten free and dairy free all at once!
- Beverages are always a big part of holiday gatherings. Make sure you have gluten free beer, wine without sulfites as well as a variety of juices and sodas for those designated drivers.
If you are attending holiday parties and not hosting, here are a few ideas to help you stick to your diet whether it’s gluten free, dairy free or if you are just watching your weight:
- Offer to bring something! This is especially great if it is an appetizer type party so you can just snack on your dish or offer to bring an alternate dish for a sit down dinner to ensure you have a full meal.
- Call the host a few days ahead to ask about the menu. Calling ahead is helpful so you are not bothering the host day of with questions and he or she can even modify a few recipes if needed.
- If you are more concerned with calories, having a fiber and protein filled snack before the party can help decrease the temptation to splurge. Black bean soup or a half turkey sandwich on gluten free bread would be great choices.
While dietary concerns like food sensitivities and trying to watch your weight can make the holiday season a challenge, with some advanced planning, you can truly enjoy the dinner and cocktail parties and the time with friends and family