The Hosting Guide to Vegan & Gluten-friendly Catering
Hosting is an art, and every thoughtful detail makes your guests feel seen. This guide is your companion to planning an inclusive, elegant menu that celebrates both flavour and care.
Your Inclusive Planning Checklist
☐ Confirm dietary preferences & allergies of your guests
☐ Ask your caterer about vegan & gluten-friendly substitutions
☐ Design a menu with balance: rich + fresh, savory + bright
☐ Include at least one indulgent dessert (vegan + gluten-friendly)
☐ Provide at least two protein-rich plant-based options
☐ Offer gluten-friendly bread alternatives (buckwheat, seed crackers, etc.)
☐ Plan non-alcoholic pairings (sparkling botanicals, kombucha, teas)
☐ Check labels for hidden gluten (soy sauce, condiments, spice mixes)
☐ Offer a variety of textures: creamy, crisp, roasted, raw
☐ Label dishes clearly at your event, which helps every guest feel welcome
Vegan-Friendly Hosting Tips
☐ Build umami layers: Roasted mushrooms, caramelised onions bring depth and savoriness.
☐ Offer hearty proteins: Dishes with lentils, chickpeas, or marinated tofu feel festive and satisfying.
☐ Think creamy without dairy: Nut or tahini-based sauces add richness.
☐ Keep textures varied: Combine something crunchy, something silky, and something warm for balance.
☐ Sweet endings: Seasonal fruit compotes or coconut panna cotta make light, elegant finishes
Gluten-Friendly Hosting Tips
☐ Use natural binders: Chia seeds and flax improve the texture of baked goods.
☐ Mix flours: Almond, rice, and buckwheat blends work better than one gluten-free flour alone.
☐ Play with grains: Quinoa and millet create variety beyond rice.
☐ Crispy alternatives: Seed crackers, chickpea socca, or polenta slices replace bread beautifully.
☐ Watch for hidden gluten: For example, in soy sauce, seasoning packets, stock cubes, and coatings.
Seasonal Menu Inspiration - Spring Awakening
Baby carrots roasted with citrus glaze
Fresh pea & mint crostini on gluten-friendly bread
Asparagus with lemon-almond cream
Questions to Ask Your Caterer
☐ How do you ensure dishes are both vegan and gluten-friendly?
☐ Do you offer seasonal menu options?
☐ What are your go-to swaps for common allergens?
☐ Can you create one “showstopper” dish for the table?
☐ How do you handle cross-contamination for gluten?
☐ Can you provide clear labelling for all dishes?
☐ Do you offer tasting sessions for hosts?
☐ How do you source your ingredients (local, seasonal, organic)?
Thank you for hosting with heart.
Every thoughtful detail you plan helps create a table where everyone feels seen, included, and celebrated.
For more inspiration, wander through our blog, follow along on socials, or explore our seasonal vegan and gluten-friendly catering ideas on our website.
If you’d like to ask a question or dream up something together, we’re always here.
Warmly,
Veceto - Elegant. Ethical. Inclusive.