The holidays are a joyous time for people to gather together and oftentimes share a meal together. The following tips are for hosting a holiday dinner that all your guests can enjoy even if some guests must follow dietary restrictions.
- Discuss the menu with your guest(s) with specific dietary needs ahead of time.
- Read food labels and avoid the necessary ingredients. If you are unsure if you can use an ingredient in a recipe, ask the guest(s) you are accommodating or use a different ingredient.
- Be extra mindful to not cross-contaminate foods. Keep foods separated from one another, and thoroughly clean cookware.
- Make simple swaps when preparing foods, so you can cook the recipes you planned but please all your guests. Examples include using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and cooking vegetables in olive oil instead of butter.
- Leave the toppings on the side, so guests can build their own dishes with toppings they enjoy.
- Design the meal in a build-your-own-bowl or buffet style. A meal with lots of options allows guests to create a dish that satisfies their dietary needs.
- Include non-alcoholic mocktails and fun drinks to accompany the meal. Ideas include fruit- or herb-infused waters or a dry bar with seltzer, juices, and herbs.
- To encourage guests to try new foods, label each food. These displays are a way to creatively describe each food but also alert guests of foods they may not be able to eat.
- Have fun! Every guest may not be able to eat every dish served – and that is okay! Plan out your holiday meals and drinks ahead of time, so you can enjoy the day with your guests.
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