Lina: “Samad, you know that potluck this weekend? I signed us up to bring something gluten free.”
Samad: “You brave soul. Gluten free potluck recipes can be tricky… but hey, challenge accepted! Let’s wow ’em.”
Lina: “Yup, and let’s make sure no one’s left out at the table even Aunt Nora with her super sensitive tummy.”
Samad: “Alright, let’s dig into some crowd-favourite, naturally gluten free recipes that’ll have the whole potluck asking for seconds.”
Table of Contents
Why Gluten Free Potluck Recipes Are a Game-Changer
Lina: “These days, someone in the group always needs a gluten free option.”
Samad: “And nobody wants to be the one nibbling on carrot sticks while everyone else is having a feast.”
Lina: “Exactly. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a winter potluck at the community hall, or a summer picnic at the lake having a few go-to gluten free recipes in your back pocket is a Canadian hosting superpower.”
Samad: “Plus, gluten free doesn’t mean flavour free. Trust me, these dishes pack serious taste.”
Hearty Quinoa Salad with Roasted Veggies
A colourful, make-ahead salad everyone can enjoy
Lina: “Okay, this one’s a lifesaver. It’s gluten free, dairy free, and vegan just in case you’ve got all the allergies at the table.”
Samad: “Bonus? It holds up beautifully in the fridge, so you can make it the night before.”
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 sweet potato, cubed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Kitchen Tip:
Lina: “Roast your veggies on a high heat like 425°F to get those caramelized edges. That’s where the magic happens.”
Cheesy Baked Polenta Squares
A naturally gluten free twist on finger food
Samad: “These little golden bites are so good. Think of them as the classy cousin of mac and cheese.”
Lina: “Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside… and no gluten in sight.”
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal (check it’s certified gluten free)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh thyme (optional)
Samad: “Let it set in a pan, then cut into squares and bake until crispy. They vanish fast.”
Lina: “They’re also freezer-friendly, in case you want to batch cook.”
Maple Dijon Chicken Drumsticks
Sweet, tangy, sticky and totally gluten free
Samad: “Every potluck needs a solid protein option. These drumsticks? Always a hit.”
Lina: “We Canadian folks love a good maple glaze. Add a bit of Dijon and garlic, and it’s lick-your-fingers good.”
Ingredients:
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt & pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Lina: “Marinate them overnight if you can then just bake and go.”
Samad: “Great for feeding a crowd. And yep, totally gluten free!”
Chocolate Coconut Macaroons (No-Bake!)
A sweet treat that everyone can enjoy
Lina: “Potluck dessert panic? These no-bake macaroons save the day.”
Samad: “No gluten, no flour, just chocolatey coconut goodness.”
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Lina: “Stir, scoop, chill. That’s it!”
Samad: “They’re also naturally dairy free and nut free check, check, check.”
Looking for more no-bake dessert inspiration? Check out the nostalgic Newfoundland Fairies Berry Crumble for another naturally gluten free option.
Creamy Avocado Devilled Eggs
A protein-packed appetizer with a twist
Samad: “Alright, devilled eggs are a potluck classic. But we’re giving them a creamy, green upgrade.”
Lina: “Avocado makes them rich and smooth, and they’re naturally gluten free no breadcrumbs or flour needed!”
Ingredients:
- 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika for garnish
Lina: “Mash it all up and pipe it back into the egg whites or use a spoon if you’re like me and don’t own a fancy piping bag.”
Samad: “They disappear fast, so maybe double the batch.”
Gluten Free Pasta Salad with Pesto
A fresh, herby twist on a picnic fave
Lina: “You can have pasta at a potluck just grab a good gluten free one that holds its shape.”
Samad: “We like the ones made with brown rice or chickpeas. Then toss with homemade pesto and some cherry tomatoes… boom, flavour town.”
Ingredients:
- 1 box gluten free pasta
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional)
Lina: “Great warm or cold. Totally picnic-approved.”
Samad: “Don’t forget to taste before serving gluten free pasta can soak up seasoning like a sponge.”
FAQ: Gluten Free Potluck Questions, Answered
Q: How can I make sure my dish is truly gluten free?
Lina: “Read your labels! Even things like soy sauce or spice blends can sneak in gluten.”
Samad: “And if you’re using shared utensils or baking trays, give ’em a good scrub first to avoid cross-contact.”
Q: Can I bring something sweet that everyone will love?
Samad: “Definitely! Those chocolate coconut macaroons from earlier? Total crowd-pleasers.”
Lina: “Or whip up a gluten free fruit crisp oats, apples, maple syrup… boom, comfort in a bowl.”
Q: What’s a good gluten free store-bought option?
Lina: “Most grocery stores now carry gluten free crackers, cookies, and chips. Just check they’re certified gluten free.”
Samad: “And hey, a platter of fresh fruit and cheese is always a win.”
Q: Should I label my dish as gluten free?
Samad: “Absolutely. Folks with allergies will really appreciate it.”
Lina: “And it’ll stop someone from guessing what’s inside!”
Let’s Wrap It Up
Lina: “Honestly, gluten free potluck recipes don’t have to be stressful.”
Samad: “Yup with the right ingredients and a little planning, you can make dishes that everyone enjoys.”
Lina: “We hope this recipe roundup brings a little joy to your table.”
Samad: “And don’t forget the best meals are the ones shared with family… and a few leftovers never hurt either.”
Maple Dijon Chicken Drumsticks
Equipment
- Baking Tray
Ingredients
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- salt & pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix maple syrup, mustard, garlic, oil, salt, and pepper.
- Coat drumsticks in marinade and place on a lined baking tray.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and cooked through.
