From peanut allergies to gluten-free, it can be daunting to plan a wedding menu that accommodates the varied requirements of your loved ones. But if the sweet sound of wedding bells is drawing ever nearer, chances are you’ll need to chat with your wedding catering provider about how best to meet the special dietary needs of a few reception guests…
Catering for vegans at your wedding — where to start?
Does catering for vegan guests mean completely upending your menu? Absolutely not. Nor does it mean settling for side simple salads as main meals. These days, any event catering service provider worth their salt will be adept at adapting their options to meet the needs of any special dietary requirements, including veganism.
Canapes to cakes, there really are no limits to vegan alternatives that promise to satisfy not only your vegan friends but your vegetarian and omnivore guests too. Below are a few ideas to help you start diversifying your wedding food catering options.
Canapes
From punchy cauliflower buffalo bites and artisanal plant-based cheese and crackers to more elaborate veg-stuffed gyozas or rainbow spring rolls, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing vegan nibbles to tide your guests over between the ceremony and speeches. No matter what the theme of your wedding — casual affair or a full-on white tie bonanza — there will be catering service options to suit you and your vegan guests.
Starters
Once your guests are seated, it’s time for the real deal. A go-to favorite starter for both plant and meat eaters alike is ‘posh’ stuffed mushrooms. Savory and decadent, the combination of warm spices and toasted nuts is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Or why not choose a wedding catering classic, and opt for a refreshing soup starter? It’s often the case that soup will already be vegan. If not, then it’s incredibly easy to ‘veganize’. We are particularly fond of a tomato gazpacho with pine nuts and garlic croutons, or a creamy asparagus and pea soup.
Mains
The main feature of your wedding menu, these dishes need to stand out and satisfy in equal measures. We’re a big fan of mushroom wellington. Hearty and traditional, this main dish is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Serve as a roast dinner, with all the veg and (vegetable) gravy.
Want something a little less conventional? Vegan curries might be the way to go. Flavorful and endlessly customizable, curries lend themselves naturally to being vegan-friendly. Whether you choose a squash and tofu red curry, a curried aubergine dhal, or maybe a chickpea chana masala, we guarantee some very happy diners.
Fancy a casual vibe? Bring out the buffet! A taco table is all the rage these days and a great way to offer plant-based right alongside everything else. Just make sure you’ve got vegan versions of taco stables available, including sour cream, cheeses, and spicy mince.
Desserts
Where would we be without a sweet treat to top off the wedding meal? It might seem easiest to simply offer vegans fresh fruit as their pudding option. But we promise that it’s easy to go above and beyond the usual fare. These days, most wedding caterers and event caterers know the tricks of the trade when it comes to creating vegan cakes that don’t compromise on quality.
Opt for vegan takes on traditional wedding puddings like victoria sponge cake or lemon drizzle, or be adventurous with dishes such as vegan tiramisu, rainbow macarons or even crème brûlée.
Drinks
A final note — remember to check that there are vegan drinks available at your special event. Many people aren’t aware that many wines and beers aren’t vegan, due to being processed and clarified by ingredients like isinglass, gelatin, and casein.
Wedding catering services from Robert J. Events
Based in Akron, Canton, or the Cleveland area? Then Robert J. Events can help you customize your wedding menu to ensure that every single one of your guests is wowed — no matter their dietary restrictions.
If a fully inclusive, professional, women-run event catering company sounds good, get in touch today. We’d be thrilled to help you make your Big Day extra special.