So either you or a someone at your holiday dinner is gluten-intolerant or celiac, and/or perhaps vegan or working towards a plant-based diet. Welcome to the world these days, am I right? These dietary choices and restrictions are both fast-growing, causing many in the population to struggle during the holidays with what they can and cannot eat – or serve, for that matter. It’s a frustrating process for many (myself included) and trying to navigate new waters like family get-togethers can make for rough sailing! Make it easier on yourself and your guests, by serving up some delicious vegan, gluten-free sides that will make everyone happy!

1. Healthy Green Bean Casserole

Used to saying “no” to this holiday festive meal favorite? Say no, no mo’!

http://www.hummusapien.com/healthy-green-bean-casserole-vegan/#_a5y_p=4264622 Photo by: Hummusapien

 

2. Slow Cooker Ranch Potatoes

With only 5 minutes of prep before you let the slow cooker do it’s thang, this is the perfect recipe for when you’ve got no time for cooking, but still want a pretty stellar side dish.

http://www.whattheforkfoodblog.com/2015/09/23/slow-cooker-ranch-potatoes/?utm_content=buffer69f8e&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campaign=buffer Photo by: What The Fork Food Blog

 

3. Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole

Healthy holiday sides? That’s a thing? It is if you make this one!

http://www.wellplated.com/healthy-sweet-potato-casserole/ Photo by: Well Plated

 

4. Garlic Crescent Rolls

No, it’s not a Christmas miracle. There really is a gluten free, dairy & egg free bread on this list!

http://petiteallergytreats.com/gluten-free-vegan-garlic-crescent-rolls/ Photo by: Petite Allergy Treats

5. Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salads is one of my favorite things to make for a dinner side. It’s a salad you can actually make in advance, and even day later – it’s incredible. No worry about soggy lettuce here!

 

http://www.hummusapien.com/vegan-broccoli-salad/ Photo by: Hummusapien

6. Apple Cranberry Stuffing

You’ve probably gotten used to saying no to stuffing, even though it’s a holiday classic served with turkey. Guests won’t know or mind that this version is completely plant-based and gluten-free!

7. Cornbread Muffins

The first time I made gluten free cornbread, I was genuinely surprised and delighted. Nothing was missing, no taste was compromised. So why not sneak these under the noses of your guests? They won’t even tell the difference!

 

http://www.makingthymeforhealth.com/vegan-and-gluten-free-cornbread-muffins/#_a5y_p=5215386 Photo by: Making Thyme For Health

8. Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Hazelnuts & Rosemary

My absolute favorite veggie side dish is Brussels sprouts. This one has an added holiday touch with the addition of maple, hazelnuts and rosemary. All winter flavors that will come together well on your holiday menu.

 

http://mydarlingvegan.com/2016/10/maple-balsamic-brussels-sprouts-with-hazelnuts-and-rosemary/ Photo by: My Darling Vegan

9. Scalloped Potatoes

Yes, cheese free! Did you know that cashews can simulate cheese quite nicely?! It’s true! This recipe makes a completely dairy free dish still cheesy and delicious like scalloped potatoes should be.

http://www.ebay.com/gds/Dairy-Free-Scalloped-Potatoes-/10000000205889543/g.html?roken2=ti.pUmVnaW5hIEJyYXVu Photo by: Ebay

10. Crock Pot Rice Stuffing

My crock pot (aka slow cooker) is like my best friend. I mean, she cooks, she keeps my kitchen clean, she keeps me entertaining instead of at the stove, etc etc. This recipe is for a rice stuffing using vegetables and cranberries and all the holiday side flavors you need.

 

http://www.wellplated.com/crock-pot-stuffing/ Photo by: Well Plated

11. Roasted Apple-Butternut Squash With Maple Cardamom Glaze

An impressive veggie side that is naturally free of gluten and animal byproducts making it a great contender for a side dish!

http://blommi.com/roasted-apple-butternut-squash-with-maple-cardamom-glaze/ Photo by: Mom Foodie

12. Vegan Gravy

So you may or may not be still serving a turkey or ham at your holiday meal.  However, those with a gluten intolerance, dairy intolerance or of a vegan lifestyle may still want to indulge in the one thing that makes everything better during a holiday meal – and that’s GRAVY. Since most gravies are filled with wheat flours and dairy, this recipe steers clear of both so that everyone can enjoy.

http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2015/11/911-vegan-gravy.html Photo by: Fat Free Vegan

 

13. Stuffed Mushroom Caps

Whether a warm starter or a side, this grain free dish is as delicious as it is impressive. With all simple ingredients, this is a great recipe for even the beginner chef.

http://www.notey.com/@tasty-yummies_unofficial/external/6976537/vegan-grain-free-stuffed-mushrooms-gluten-free-vegan.html?utm_content=bufferdd2aa&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campaign=buffer Photo by: Tasty Yummies

14. Mashed Potatoes

It’s not a holiday feast without it!

http://minimalistbaker.com/the-best-damn-vegan-mashed-potatoes/ Photo by: Minimalist Baker

15. Mac & Cheese

If your family holidays are like mine – there will be children. Of the actual 12 and under version, and some wacky adults. Gosh, love em. Children often see a holiday feast and go for the rolls. Typically we like to have some side options that will appeal to them, and mac & cheese is one of them! With gluten and dairy intolerance at an all-time high among children too, this a smart addition to the buffet.

http://www.glutenfreeveganpantry.com/baked-vegan-mac-and-cheese-gluten-free-too/ Photo by: Gluten Free Vegan Pantry

 

Sarah Nicole

Since successfully losing 100lbs by changing her relationship with food and her body, Sarah has taken her passion for food and balanced it between cucumbers and cupcakes. When she's not bustling her way around a kitchen, you can find her working out or winding down at home with her 3 kids and pug. Follow Sarah's journey on Instagram @TheBirdsPapaya.

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