Now, Thanksgiving is almost synonymous with scrumptious banquets filled with decadent foods Ðstuffed turkeys, thick gravies, pumpkin pies and desserts Ð obviously something that will test a person on a gluten-free diet to no end!
But fear not, because you can easily turn any Thanksgiving table into a gluten-free delight! All you have to do is know which dishes have gluten and which do not. Even when navigating food options as a guest, you can almost always count on these 7 Thanksgiving table staples to be gluten friendly.
1. Deviled Eggs
One of the most common holiday appetizers, deviled eggs are the perfect go to gluten-free recipe when you have to whip up something quick. They are dairy-free too! Essentially, deviled eggs are hard boiled eggs which have been cut in half, and have their yolk removed. The yolk is then mixed with different ingredients (usually mayonnaise and mustard) and stuffed back into the egg white and served. The result is amazingly delicious with no gluten required.
2. Mashed Potatoes
As potatoes are naturally gluten-free, you can mash them up with any number of ingredients to create a delicious side dish that everyone can enjoy. For a vegan option, mash them up with almond milk and vegan margarine instead of the traditionally called for milk and butter.
3. Cranberry Sauce
How can any Thanksgiving plate be complete without a generous helping of cranberry sauce? There are plenty of canned cranberry sauces that are gluten-free; however, if your favorite brand uses a shared manufacturing facility where other gluten-containing foods are also being processed, you need to be careful. In any case, you can ensure that your serving of cranberry sauce remains gluten-free by making some yourself! Homemade cranberry sauce is simple and easy to prepare, and contains more nutrients and less sugar than its canned counterpart.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole
Most sweet potato casserole recipes you will encounter are already gluten-free, but it doesnÕt hurt to ask and be sure. Sweet potatoes are gluten-free, however, other ingredients that go into making your casserole may not be. Check out this recipe if youÕre looking for gluten-free casserole inspiration.
5. Green Beans
Green bean casserole is one of the most beloved staples of the Thanksgiving meal, but for those looking to have a similar gluten-free offering in a pinch, a regular side of roasted green beans makes a fine substitute. If you must have the casserole, you can order a gluten-free and/or vegan one from the Tidal Creek Co-op Caf to have at your holiday dinner (click here for information). Green beans are nutritious and gluten-free, so be sure to have a generous portion of these on the table!
6. The Turkey
Most turkeys will only consist of turkey and some preservatives and are fine to eat for those with gluten sensitivities, but celiacs will have to take extra precautions. Simply check the packaging for gluten-containing additives to be extra certain, or purchase an all natural turkey, which may be slightly more expensive, but tastier and worth it in the long run.
7. Roasted Carrots
Carrots, like most vegetables, contain no gluten, so roasted carrots fit perfectly in with a gluten-free Thanksgiving meal. The preparation is simple and there are many different ways to prepare and roast your carrots including a drizzle of honey, pat of butter, or sprinkle of rosemary.
These days, you will find just about any food item has an equally delicious gluten-free alternative (even green bean casserole!). At Tidal Creek, we carry gluten-free rolls, pie crusts, bread for stuffing, and lots of different gluten-free substitutes that will allow you to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal without missing out on anything! Even those without food sensitivities will find the organic, natural, fresh holiday food options refreshing when compared to the regular prepackaged fare.
The Tidal Creek Co-op Caf will be hand-preparing a variety of Thanksgiving dishes to make your holiday meal special. You can buy a single dish, a sampling plate, or the whole dinner! Everything is all natural, made fresh to order, with gluten-free and vegan versions available for those loved ones with special diets at your table. Click here to see our 2014 Thanksgiving Menu and pricing.
Tidal Creek Co-op and health food store makes it easy to be gluten-free in Wilmington, NC! The Co-op will be one of the few stores and restaurants open Thanksgiving Day in Wilmington. Our Thanksgiving Day hours are from 9 am – 2 pm.
Need Thanksgiving catering in Wilmington? Click here for more information.