12 Gluten-Free Food Platters for an Unforgettable Party

When you're planning a dinner, party, or special event, accommodating a gluten-free guest can be quite the challenge. The need to ensure everyone enjoys the food while meeting dietary restrictions is something you just can't ignore. If you don't provide gluten-free options, you risk serious health issues for guests with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. This isn't just about food preferences—it's about their well-being. And the last thing you want is for someone to leave your party feeling hungry or unwell, thinking they were an afterthought. To help you navigate this challenge, we've created a list of the best gluten-free food platters for your party. Whether your gathering is completely gluten-free or you’re adding some gluten-free options for celiac attendees, you'll find easy recipes for a range of delicious gluten free party food platters to delight all your guests.
7 July 2024 8 min read
gluten free party food recipes UK

Gluten-Free Appetisers to Kickstart the Party

Appetisers are key to setting the stage for a memorable party, giving guests their first taste of what’s to come. With these simple gluten-free starters, you can ensure everyone has something to enjoy without compromising on flavour or variety. 

1. Fresh Crudités Platter with Hummus

Create a vibrant platter by arranging crisp vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots around a bowl of creamy hummus. For added variety, include gluten-free crackers or breadsticks. This gluten-free party food platter is not just a feast for the eyes but also offers a burst of fresh, crisp flavours balanced by the rich, creamy hummus. (Tip: You can add a sprinkle of paprika or drizzle some olive oil over the hummus for an extra touch of flavour. Paprika provides a subtle smokiness and vibrant colour, enhancing the visual appeal. Olive oil boosts the creaminess and richness, making the platter even more delicious.)

Fresh Crudités Platter with Hummus is a simple gluten-free food idea for starters
Image Source – Google | Image by – The FeedFeed

Highlights

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Budget: Low
  • Preparation level: Easy

2. Caprese Skewers

Alternate cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls on skewers. Just before serving, drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze. This simple yet elegant appetiser captures the classic flavours of a Caprese salad in a convenient, bite-sized form.  (Tip:  You can marinate the mozzarella balls in olive oil and herbs or even add olives for extra flavour.)

Caprese Skewers is an easy gluten-free party food idea
Image Source – Google | Image by – Love and Lemons

Highlights

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Budget: Medium
  • Preparation level: Easy

3. Buttered Salmon with Red Onion, Capers, and Dill

Prepare salmon fillets with a mix of butter, olive oil, lemon zest, red onion, and capers. Roast until the salmon is tender and flaky. Garnish with fresh dill and optional sesame seeds and serve hot, drizzled with the lemony butter sauce. This gluten-free party food is an elegant option for your menu. (Tip: Consider browning the butter before adding it to the salmon for a more vibrant flavour. Browning butter adds a nutty and rich depth to the dish. Additionally, you can briefly fry the capers until they pop to intensify their briny flavour, adding a delightful crunch to the dish​).

Buttered Salmon is an amazing gluten-free party food idea
Image Source – Google | Image by – Alison Roman

Highlights

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Budget: Medium
  • Preparation level: Easy

Quick and Easy Gluten-Free Finger Foods

For a dynamic party atmosphere, finger foods are a staple to keep guests socialising. These gluten-free finger food platters are perfect for easy snacking at any party and ensure everyone can indulge without worry. 

4. Stuffed Jalapeno Peppers

Fill mini bell peppers with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices. To make it a perfect gluten and dairy free party food, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Bake until the peppers are soft and the filling is golden. These stuffed peppers are flavourful and can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for any party. (Tip: You can mix in finely chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition. This boosts the health factor and adds vibrant colour to the dish.)

Stuffed Jalapeno Peppers is a great gluten free finger food platter
Image Source – Google | Image by – The Yummy Bowl

Highlights

  • Prep time: 30 minutes
  • Budget: Medium
  • Preparation level: Easy

5. Deviled Eggs

Hard-boil eggs, then halve them and mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and spices. Fill the egg whites with the prepared mixture and top off with paprika and chives. These creamy and tangy deviled eggs are a classic finger food that guests will love. (Tip: You can add a bit of avocado to the yolk mixture for a creamy twist. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a fresh flavour and extra nutrients.)

Deviled Eggs counts among the best gluten free party starters food ideas
Image Source – Google | Image by – Stay Snatched

Highlights

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Budget: Low
  • Preparation level: Easy

6. Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders

Coat chicken strips in gluten-free breadcrumbs and bake or fry until golden and crispy. Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard and barbecue. These chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser and easy to make, providing a tasty and satisfying option. (Tip: For a healthier version, you can bake the tenders instead of frying. This approach cuts down on fat content yet still offers a deliciously crispy texture.)

Gluten Free Chicken Tenders is one of the best party food platters recipes
Image Source – Google | Image by – Stay Gluten Free

Highlights

  • Prep time: 25 minutes
  • Budget: Medium
  • Preparation level: Easy

Hearty Gluten-Free Main Course Platters

The main course is the centrepiece of your party, and it deserves to be exceptional. Whether it’s a birthday party for your kids or a Christmas feast, these delicious gluten-free party food ideas will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

7. Grilled Vegetable Platter

Grill a mix of vegetables, including zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and asparagus. Pour some olive oil and top with herbs such as rosemary and thyme. This colourful platter delights the eyes and is rich in flavours and nutrients, making it one of the best gluten-free party foods for any occasion. (Tip: You can serve with a side of gluten-free dipping sauce like tzatziki for extra flavour.)

Grilled Vegetable Platter serves as a gluten free and dairy free party food

Highlights

  • Prep time: 35 minutes
  • Budget: Medium
  • Preparation level: Easy

8. Gluten-Free Pizza

Use a gluten-free pizza crust, then spread tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favourite gluten-free toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives. Heat in the oven until the cheese is perfectly melted and golden. This homemade pizza is sure to be a hit and can be customised to suit everyone’s taste. (Tip:  You can make a few different pizzas with a variety of toppings like gluten-free pepperoni, vegetarian options, and dairy-free cheese. This ensures that everyone at your party can find something they enjoy and adds variety to your spread.)

Gluten-Free Pizza is a great gluten free Christmas party food

Highlights:

  • Prep time: 30 minutes
  • Budget: Medium
  • Preparation level: Easy

9. Baked Salmon

Season salmon fillets with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and parsley. Bake until the salmon reaches flakiness and is thoroughly cooked. Serve with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad. This main course is elegant, healthy, and relatively easy to prepare. (Tip: You can garnish with thin lemon slices and a pinch of fresh dill or parsley for garnish. This adds a burst of colour and a refreshing flavour to the dish.)

Baked Salmon is the best gluten free party food

Highlights

  • Prep time: 25 minutes
  • Budget: High
  • Preparation level: Easy

Gluten-Free Dessert Platters for Every Sweet Tooth

Desserts are the perfect way to conclude your party on a high note, making it truly unforgettable. From rich chocolate delights to fruity favourites, these gluten-free treats will satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth, ensuring every guest leaves with a smile.

10. Fruit Skewers

Create fruit skewers with strawberries, pineapple, grapes, and melon. Serve with a honey-yogurt dip for added sweetness. These colourful and refreshing fruit skewers are a healthy and tasty way to end the meal. (Tip: You can use seasonal fruits like summer berries or autumn apples for the freshest and most flavourful skewers. This ensures peak ripeness and maximum taste.)

Fruit Skewers are an easy gluten-free party food

Highlights

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Budget: Low
  • Preparation level: Easy

11. Gluten-Free Brownies

Bake a batch of rich, fudgy gluten-free brownies. Once cooled, cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy serving. If you are looking for gluten free kids party food, this could be a great addition. These brownies are indulgent and satisfying with a deep chocolate flavor and a chewy texture, providing a perfect sweet treat for your guests. (Tip: You can dust with coarse sea salt prior to baking. This enhances the chocolate flavour and provides a delightful salty-sweet contrast.)

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Gluten-Free Brownies are one of the best party food platters

Highlights

  • Prep time: 40 minutes
  • Budget: Medium
  • Preparation level: Easy

12. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Dip fresh strawberries in melted gluten-free chocolate and let them set on parchment paper. These elegant and delicious treats are perfect for any occasion and can be made quickly. (Tip:  You can sprinkle finely chopped nuts or coconut flakes on the chocolate before it sets. This adds a crunchy texture and extra flavour.)

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries is an amazing gluten free kids party food

Highlights

  • Prep time: 20 minutes (plus setting time)
  • Budget: Medium
  • Preparation level: Easy

Gluten-Free Party Hosting Made Easy and Stress-Free

Did you know gluten can quickly transfer from one food item to another through shared utensils, surfaces, or even airborne flour? This cross-contamination risk, coupled with the hidden gluten in many processed foods due to additives, thickeners, or flavourings, makes creating a safe menu incredibly challenging. Besides, finding suitable gluten-free substitutes can be tricky, as they often lack the desired flavour and consistency and are harder to source. For those new to gluten-free cooking, this means recipes frequently require trial and error to achieve the right taste and texture, adding to the complexity and stress of hosting a gluten-free event.

So why not hire a private chef? A private chef brings expertise in preparing safe, delicious, and varied gluten-free dishes, ensuring every meal is crafted with care and attention to avoid any contamination. They can easily source the right ingredients, taking the stress out of hosting and allowing you to focus on enjoying your event.To make your event truly special, you can book a private catering service through yhangry. yhangry connects you with top-rated chefs who specialise in creating memorable, gluten-free food. Their team ensures every detail is handled smoothly, making your party a hit for all your guests.

FAQs

To host a gluten-free party, consider hiring a private chef. This can simplify the process and guarantee a delicious, worry-free experience for you and your guests. For added convenience, choose yhangry. Our chefs specialise in customised gluten-free menus, ensuring all dishes are prepared safely, preventing cross-contamination, and providing a diverse and tasty selection that meets your guests’ dietary needs.

On a gluten-free platter, include fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, gluten-free crackers, and deli meats. Complement these with gluten-free dips like hummus or guacamole. You might also consider adding gluten-free baked goods for variety.

Gluten-free people can enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and gluten-free snacks at a party. They can also have gluten-free dips, appetisers, desserts, and drinks like wine or gluten-free beer too. Clearly labelling gluten-free options helps guests choose safely.