05 Mar Festive Flavors

These days, creating a menu for a holiday party requires more planning than ever, since many people eat gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian. You can still serve a range of tasty, healthful dishes that offer something for everyone.
The menu below from Tanya Holland, author of Brown Sugar Kitchen and chef-owner of the acclaimed restaurant of the same name in Oakland, California, shows how. You’ll find all the recipes in her book.

Vegetarian mini-muffuletta sandwiches
These sandwiches work beautifully as finger food—essential for the mingling part of a party. Instead of the traditional cured meats, they rely on roasted and pickled veggies for flavor.

Bourbon-and-chili-glazed salmon
This dish might sound decadent, but it’s gluten-free and packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Creole meatloaf
You’ll want to offer at least one hearty comfort food to warm things up—it’s December, after all, and cold outside. Holland’s version of this meatloaf uses her own blend of Creole spices, including lots of cayenne and paprika, to add heat.

BBQ pulled pork sandwich
Lemon juice, mustard, cider vinegar, and honey combine for a sauce both spicy and sweet.

Collard greens
Green vegetables lighten up a meal and are packed with vitamins and calcium—great for vegetarians, gluten-free diners, and everyone else.

Brown Sugar Kitchen sangria
Increasingly, holiday party hosts want to keep alcohol consumption light. Sangria is a lower-alcohol alternative to cocktails and pairs nicely with all the menu items here.