Gluten Free Sukkot

Does your sukka need to be gluten free? No worries, it can be. Sukkot is a gorgeous holiday that among other themes celebrates bounty. Fresh fruits and vegetables are served up to acknowledge this autumnal holiday and the continued bounty and sustenance we receive.

Are you smiling yet? A bountiful experience is coming your way. Fruits and veggies are don't have gluten. Of course things get tricky when vegetables are ensconced in wheat based dough or drenched in gluten filled sauces. Keep your vegetables healthy and unadultertated. Serve them fresh or grilled. Maybe a few gluten free spices or a nice gluten free dressing? Whip up a soup with an immersion blender and lock in those wholesome flavors. Nothing like a hot soup on a chilly Sukkot Night. You can eat quite nicely without the wheat (and healthier too).

As far as main dishes, chicken, turkey, lamb, and beef are all gluten free. Roast a turkey, slow cook a brisket, broil some lamb chops, are you missing the wheat yet? Who needs it. Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs and good cuts of meat go a long way.Like to grill? Go ahead and throw some chicken or salmon on the grill and make some kebobs for the sukkah. Easy, healthy, and simply delicious.

Side dishes can be kept simple too. Fingerling potatoes, brown rice (skip the pilaf), and quinoa, are all gluten free. There are so many variations once you play with preparation methods and seasonings. Throw in some sauteed mushrooms and onions into mashed potatoes to add a gourmet touch to plain potatoes. Add some curry to boring rice for some zip. Inspired yet?

Sukkot desserts can be simply delicious as well. Since we dine outdoors for this holiday think of the weather when planning your menu. Will it be warm and balmy? Perhaps a luscious sorbet or creamy ice-cream would be a refreshing treat. If cooler weather is around the bend serve a piping hot gluten free pie and watch everyone's mouth water. Fresh seasonal fruit is always a hit after a big meal whatever the weather. Some green grapes, cut ripe melon, fresh strawberries, what could be bad?

Don't forget the challah. Gluten free challah? Yup! You can buy ready-made wheat free challah or bake it yourself from scratch. Either way you don't have to skip the challah. Have plenty of honey and dips for the challah course. Olive, garlic, and eggplant dips make a great start to a fabul

ous gluten friendly Sukkot Meal.