Right before the big Thanksgiving meal, my favorite aunt once announced her new vegetarian status to all us kids, and I remember my mother dutifully making room for a Tofurkey in the oven, right next to the Big bird. (Personally, I’d prefer to make a meal out of vegetarian Thanksgiving sides than make-believe meat, but to each his own.)  This year presents a new challenge for many cooks: friends and family who, either by choice or medical necessity, are avoiding gluten. What does that mean for the big feast?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat and related grains, including barley and rye. Obviously, stuffing the bird with seasoned bread is out. Not only does bread stuffing contain gluten, but people with a severe gluten intolerance would probably have to avoid the bird itself.

If your holiday table includes someone who avoids gluten, consider a rice-based stuffing instead, such as this wild rice stuffing. (Be sure to choose a gluten-free bullion.)

Thickening the gravy with flour also won’t do. Instead, try this easy gravy made with corn-starch.  (Again, be sure your stock or bullion has “gluten-free” on the label.)

Pie crust is another gluten no-no. But what guest (gluten-sensitive or not!) wouldn’t be delighted by these gluten-free maple pumpkin custards?

Here are more great gluten-free (and vegetarian) recipes for your holiday menu — or any time, for that matter.

Zucchini Tomato Gratin

This very summer-y dish can easily do double-duty as a terrific — and delicious — Thanksgiving side.

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

You can freeze this dish for up to two weeks — a perfect for way to save time on a busy holiday.

Apple Confit

Cinnamon and vanilla give this slow-cooker apple dessert a flavor that defies any “healthy” labels. It’s that good!

Flourless Honey Almond Cake

Here’s another dessert that’s so good — thanks to honey and almonds — you’ll want to make it all the time.

 Ginger Rice Crunch

Set this out on the holiday buffet table as a bonus snack treat. Or think about breakfast the next morning.

Try all of these delicious gluten-free recipes!

You might also like:

Benefits (and risks) of Going Gluten Free

Going Gluten-Free on a Budget: Supermarket Savvy

Pizza Goes Gluten-Free—now that’s a trend!

Gluten-Free Game-Day Snacking

Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes, as Easy as Pumpkin Pie!

Categories: Real Healthy | Tags: Gluten Free, Healthy Cooking, Quick and Easy Healthy, Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving Side Dishes
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