As a plant-based eater navigating social gatherings or dinner parties during the holidays can be challenging, but with a little preparation and communication, you can enjoy the festivities while staying true to your dietary preferences.
Communicate your dietary needs
One of the most important things you can do when attending social gatherings or dinner parties is to communicate your dietary needs to the host or hostess. Let them know in advance that you are a plant-based eater so they can make accommodations for you.
Offer to bring a dish
To ensure there will be something for you to eat, offer to bring a plant-based dish to share with others. This way, you can guarantee that there will be at least one option that fits your dietary preferences.
Scan the menu
Before the event, ask the host or hostess for a copy of the menu so you can see what will be served. Look for any plant-based options or dishes that can be easily modified to fit your dietary needs.
Ask about ingredients
At the event, don’t be afraid to ask about the ingredients in the dishes being served. Politely inquire about any animal products or hidden ingredients that may not be obvious.
Focus on the sides
- Often, side dishes like salads, roasted vegetables, and grains are plant-based and can be a safe option for you to enjoy.
- If the main dish is not plant-based, load up on the sides to ensure you are getting enough to eat.
Be prepared to improvise
There may be times when there are no plant-based options available. In these situations, you may need to get creative and improvise with what is available. For example, you could make a meal out of a combination of side dishes or create a salad using ingredients from the salad bar.
BYO snacks
If you are worried about not having enough to eat, consider bringing some plant-based snacks with you to the event. This way, you will have something to munch on if there are limited options for you.
Stay positive and flexible
Remember that the holidays are about enjoying time with loved ones, not just about the food. Stay positive and flexible in your approach to eating plant-based at social gatherings and dinner parties.