Recipes and meal plans from your registered dietitian nutritionist here in Boston’s Back Bay. In collaboration with grace brinton, professional chef and health coach.

This holiday season will be the first time that many of us gather around the table after almost 2 years. I, for one, am looking forward to baking a full pie instead of the tedious minis that suited my “Thanksgiving for Two” last year. But for family and friends with food allergies, digestive intolerances, or even vegan or vegetarian preferences, the holidays can be a minefield of trouble and stress.

What’s the solution to avoiding allergens? Do you fake illness to stay put in your own kitchen? Or make a bland, name-your-allergen-free dish that really isn’t the same as grandma’s? Grace Brinton, Professional Chef and Certified Health Coach says, “Neither!” As someone who has navigated this dilemma herself, Grace now supports clients by introducing meals that address health needs without sacrificing quality or flavor.

As far as traditional Thanksgiving dishes go, many of the 8 major allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, milk, fish, shellfish, eggs, wheat, soy) show up everywhere. Butter (milk) and eggs are in everything from stuffing to pumpkin pie; nuts and wheat make their way into stuffings and desserts; and did you know that green bean casserole calls for soy sauce?! Yikes. Those are 6 of the 8 major allergens from apps to dessert.

As your dietitian, I would be remiss not to say that first and foremost, it’s crucial to have an open conversation with your host or guest. Your health is your priority! So:

• Talk to your host or ask your guest about specific allergies and their severity

• Identify which dishes will be a problem and whether they can be avoided, altered, or eliminated

• Cook an allergen-free dish (or three!) that everyone will enjoy

Yes, everyone! Thanks to Grace, we have a side dish, stuffing, and dessert that are bursting with flavor, texture, and color while remaining free of all 8 major allergens. These dishes are also gluten-free and can be safe for those with Celiac disease. They are:

1. Kale Pomegranate Salad

2. Cauliflower Rice “Stuffing”*

3. Apple Pear Crisp*

*Dairy-free if using coconut oil

Which drool-worthy recipe will you be making for your holiday table? Tell us your pick and leave questions about the recipes for Grace or me in the comments section below. Have a safe, happy, and healthy Thanksgiving!

Grace Brinton is a professionally trained chef and health coach. She works on a weekly basis to plan and prepare meals for clients from all walks of life. Visit Grace’s website to learn more about her meal services: www.gracebrinton.com