3 Gluten-Free Summer Potluck Staples

Summer is almost here, and with it comes the perennial pool parties, barbecues, and picnics. As every vegan knows, these all-day parties can provide a challenge. What can you bring that’s going to taste extraordinary and show off your lifestyle in the best possible sun-dappled light? On top of that, what if you have to factor in food allergies or sensitivities?

You can wow party-goers with offerings that are as flavor-filled as they are safe and satisfying. Think of each social gathering as a chance to highlight the delicious variety that’s still available, even within a restricted diet. Once your friends have discovered how fresh and interesting a gluten-free or allergy-friendly dish can be, they might just rise to the challenge and make something safe for you at the next get-together. However, if you expect that your dish is going to be all that you can eat at a party, make sure that it’s hearty and filling. A brown rice and chickpea salad will provide you with fiber and protein along with the bright flavors of sweet roasted red peppers, salty olives, and a lemon vinaigrette. You can add a bit of surprise to chips and salsa if you make a raw tomatillo and pineapple salsa that comes together in minutes. Toss some salsa into mashed avocado for a creamy, tangy guacamole. Add tortilla chips and raw veggies, and you’ve got a party-ready starter. Sticking with summer fruit flavors, whip up some lemon cookies with a hint of coconut.

Focusing on the amazing summer bounty available—melons, berries, and farm-fresh vegetables—makes it simple to create delicious and allergy-free dishes all season long.

This summer’s potluck menu:
Middle Eastern Chickpea & Rice Salad
Pineapple Tomatillo Salsa
Frosted Lemon Cookies

Kim Lutz creates allergy-friendly, vegan recipes for welcomingkitchen.com and in her book, Welcoming Kitchen: 200 Delicious Allergen and Gluten-free Vegan Recipes.

Photo courtesy of Kim Lutz