Gluten-Free Menu Ideas: From Starters and Mains to Desserts

Mar 29, 2025 | Catering

As the Executive Chef at Robert J. Events & Catering in Akron, Ohio, I’ve noticed a significant increase in requests for gluten-free options at our catered events. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate function or private gathering, dietary requirements needn’t limit your menu choices. Today, I’m sharing some of our most popular gluten-free menu ideas that never fail to impress our guests.

 

Impressive Gluten-Free Starters

Elegant Canapés and Appetizers

When we welcome guests to an event, we believe the first bite sets the tone for the entire experience. Our gluten-free starters are designed to excite the palate without compromising on presentation or flavour.

One of our signature offerings is our prosciutto-wrapped melon with balsamic reduction. This simple yet elegant starter combines the sweetness of seasonal melon with the saltiness of high-quality prosciutto, creating a perfect balance that appeals to all guests, not just those requiring gluten-free options.

Another crowd-pleaser is our selection of stuffed mushrooms. We fill portobello caps with a mixture of herbs, goat cheese and toasted walnuts, then roast them to perfection. These savory morsels are substantial enough to satisfy yet light enough to leave room for the courses to follow.

For more formal occasions, we often recommend our seared scallops with cauliflower purée. The delicate sweetness of the scallops’ pairs beautifully with the creamy cauliflower base, and the dish looks spectacular on the plate—a testament to our belief that gluten-free dining should never feel like a compromise.

 

Satisfying Gluten-Free Main Courses

Hearty Entrées for Every Palate

At Robert J. Events, we’re passionate about creating main courses that form the centerpiece of your dining experience. Our gluten-free options are just as robust and satisfying as their traditional counterparts.

Our herb-crusted rack of lamb has become something of a signature dish. We coat the rack with a mixture of fresh herbs, Dijon mustard and olive oil before roasting it to a perfect medium rare. Served with a red wine reduction and seasonal vegetables, it’s a showstopper at any event.

For seafood lovers, our pan-seared salmon with citrus beurre blanc offers a lighter alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The crispy skin and tender flesh of the salmon contrast beautifully with the tangy sauce, and we often serve it with a quinoa pilaf studded with roasted vegetables.

Plant-based mains are increasingly popular at our events, and our stuffed butternut squash has received rave reviews. We hollow out butternut squash halves and fill them with a mixture of wild rice, cranberries, pecans and roasted vegetables, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

 

Decadent Gluten-Free Desserts

Sweet Endings Without Wheat

Many clients are surprised to learn that dessert can be the highlight of a gluten-free menu. At Robert J. Events & Catering, we’ve perfected recipes that will delight even the most discerning sweet tooth.

Our flourless chocolate torte is rich, dense and intensely chocolatey—often causing guests to ask for the recipe. We serve it with a dollop of Chantilly cream and fresh berries for a classic finish to any meal.

For summer events, our pavlova with seasonal fruits is both light and impressive. The crisp meringue shell gives way to a marshmallow-like interior, providing the perfect base for fresh cream and a tumble of berries or stone fruits, depending on the season.

When clients visit our website at robertjevents.com, they often enquire about our almond and orange cake. This moist, fragrant cake is made with ground almonds instead of flour, and the bright citrus notes make it a refreshing end to a meal.

At Robert J. Events & Catering, we believe that dietary requirements should never limit the enjoyment of a special occasion. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that every guest receives a memorable dining experience, regardless of their dietary needs. If you’re planning an event in Akron, Ohio, we invite you to contact our Events Manager to discuss how we can craft a gluten-free menu that will exceed your expectations.

You May Also Like…