A Yummy Dinner Party For Guests of All Tastes
Spending time with family and friends and sharing meals with them is for many life’s greatest pleasures. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or you’re a seasoned host, it’s possible that you might get caught off guard with guests who have food allergies, sensitivities or special dietary needs.
As a host, you need to be sensitive to your guests’ needs when it comes to food. Whether it’s their personal choice or due to medical reasons, you’ll want to make sure all your guests are happy, healthy and satisfied.
Guests with special dietary needs require you to prepare food that fits their eating habits or dietary conditions. Have a quick look at some of the more common special diets – what they mean and which foods must be avoided so you can move on confidently when planning your guests’ visit.
Vegetarians and Vegans
My sister and her family are all vegetarians and considering that one of my sons is allergic to red meat, we became quite curious about finding yummy and easy vegetarian recipes.
Vegetarians don’t eat meat or meat derived products. Most vegetarians have experience cooking for themselves so try to ask if they would like to bring food to share, or if you feel like making something special for them, ask them if they have a special request or a recipe they love. If this is uncomfortable for you, make sure you have plenty of vegetables, salads or pasta dishes.
A vegan, on the other hand, does not eat any form of meat or meat products, as well as eggs, milk products or in most cases, honey. So to be on the safe side, stock up on vegetable, fruits, and salad dishes and make meatless pasta or rice dishes! For dessert, pay attention to not use dairy products, finding substitutes for butter and cream, for example.
Diabetics
Diabetics have to watch their sugar intake so limit the sugar content as much as possible or use sugar substitutes. Devise a healthy menu based on meals that contain plenty of vegetables, are low in saturated fat and sodium. Use small quantities of olive oil and add flavor with other ingredients, such as herbs and spices.
Lactose Intolerant
Lactose intolerance means the body cannot easily digest lactose, a type of natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. With the lactose intolerant guest, you have to steer clear of dairy products. Nowadays there are a lot of alternatives that can make your meal planning a whole lot easier. Instead of using butter, for example, use soy or almond milk and margarine.
Consult others who have served guests with special dietary needs. By considering the dietary special needs of your guests, you can still make entertaining them at home fun!
