How to Master a Gluten Free Christmas

By: Bob's Red Mill | December 4 2016
Whether you are new to gluten free cooking or consider yourself a seasoned pro, perfecting Christmas dinner can be a challenge. If you have a gluten free guest attending your Christmas this year, do not fret. This is the perfect opportunity to test your culinary skills by adapting to a different style of cooking. From appetizers to side dishes to desserts--leave no dish unaccounted for. This guide will show you how to master a gluten free Christmas with ease. Once you learn a few easy swaps and substitutions for gluten free dishes, you will be able to make all your traditional holiday favorites.

Appetizers

Start off the holiday festivities with showstopping appetizers. To give your Christmas meal added elegance, make sure each dish showcases a beautiful presentation. This attention to detail will be noticed and appreciated among your guests. Sun-Dried Tomato Polenta Bites [caption id="attachment_1077868" align="aligncenter" width="770"]sundried-tomato-polenta-bites recipegirl.com[/caption] If you are looking for an impressive starter, this is the perfect recipe. With a beautiful presentation and delicious flavor combination, this recipe is sophisticated enough for any Christmas dinner party. With goat cheese, homemade pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes, these polenta bites are guaranteed to wow your guests. Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites For an easy and simple addition, try these light smoked salmon cucumber bites. They’re so delicious they will be gone before you know it! Made with just five simple ingredients, these appetizers are a healthy start for your feast to come. Here’s a tip: Prepare a plate of different cheeses, fruits, and gluten free crackers for your guests. This is a quick appetizer that can be done ahead to save time.

Bread

Just because you are doing gluten free Christmas does not mean you should skip the bread entirely. Don’t leave this staple food item off the menu. Instead, try making homemade gluten free biscuits or rolls from scratch! Here are two foolproof recipes to try: Gluten Free Soda Biscuits No one will be able to tell the difference between these and your classic biscuit recipe! Top with butter, jam, or honey to add variety. Garlic and Parmesan Rolls For a flavorful roll that pairs perfectly with the savory dishes of Christmas, try this garlic and parmesan roll recipe.

Side Dishes

Roasted Mushrooms This easy vegetable side dish is packed with flavor. Adding a few healthy sides is a great way to please every kind of diet during the holiday festivities. Healthy Green Bean Casserole Just like the traditional favorite, but a whole lot healthier. This recipe is gluten free, dairy free, and vegan! Who knew being healthy could be so tasty? Cranberry and Almond Salad To add some freshness to the meal, make sure to have a large spinach salad on the table. This recipe uses seasonal ingredients like dried cranberries to go with the Christmas theme. Gluten Free Mac and Cheese Make a crowd-pleasing favorite by adding an indulgent mac and sheese to your Christmas dinner spread. Your guests will not be able to tell the difference between the original and this gluten free version! Mashed Potatoes [caption id="attachment_1077923" align="aligncenter" width="770"]the-best-damn-vegan-mashed-potatoes minimalistbaker.com[/caption] No holiday feast would be complete without this traditional side dish! This year try making this vegan and gluten free version. This recipe is a great way to incorporate a healthier dish to your holiday meal. If you really want to do a healthier spin to your Christmas, try swapping the mashed potatoes with a mashed cauliflower recipe. This dish is surprisingly similar to the classic potato dish, but with a fraction of the calories.

Dessert

Finish off your Christmas dinner with a flawless gluten free dessert. This year you won’t be feeling guilty after indulging in these delicious treats. Here are a few healthier recipes to add to your meal this holiday season. Chocolate Raspberry Tart [caption id="attachment_1077929" align="aligncenter" width="770"]chocolate-coconut-tart-1 blahnikbaker.com[/caption] This delicious recipe is made with all natural ingredients and is just as decadent as any other holiday dessert. Top with fresh raspberries, crushed pistachios, and sliced almonds to take your presentation to the next level. Gluten Free Dutch Apple Pie pie11 This one is for the purist. Here is a perfect recipe for a classic Dutch apple pie. With the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, this pie will be gone in minutes. Gingerbread Cookies [caption id="attachment_1077937" align="aligncenter" width="770"]gingerbread-cookies glutenfreeonashoestring.com[/caption] Christmas just wouldn’t be complete without this iconic favorite. Brighten up any Christmas dinner with these adorable gluten free gingerbread men! There you have it. The foolproof guide to any gluten free Christmas feast. Whether you want to provide healthier alternatives or are revamping your entire Christmas menu, these easy recipes will be the perfect addition to any holiday dinner. Gluten free or not, everyone will love these added dishes!

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