Autumn marks a season of gathering; from birthdays to PowerPoint nights, to Friendsgivings, to Taylor Swift album listening parties. I love any excuse to hang out with my friends and sip fun little drinks while we gossip. One thing I don’t love is showing up empty-handed.
It’s always the same interaction. You ask the host what you can bring and they say something like “oh, just yourself!” Don’t listen to them. You should always bring something if you are able to. In a time where everyone’s second cousin is vegan and doesn’t eat gluten (me!), here are 5 allergy-friendly host gifts you can bring to any fall celebration.
- Cocktail or Mocktail ingredients
If you’re of age, a potato or grape-based vodka is an excellent addition to any get-together. You can bring it for the host, or for the party to enjoy. If you don’t drink, supply the mixers! Everyone loves having juice or soda on hand. You could even buy ingredients for a mocktail and make it for the whole crowd. Currently, I have been obsessed with Shirley Temples where the only two ingredients are grenadine and sprite, both of which can be found at your local HEB.
- Desserts
To my core, I am a something sweet girl. That being said, bringing desserts to a party is always going to be a hit. The dessert category can be tricky when it comes to food allergies, but luckily Austin has a Trader Joe’s 2.4 miles away from campus. Two seasonal favorites of mine include the vegan banana bread with walnuts and the gluten-free pumpkin streusel muffins.
- Salsa, Guac, and Chips
This is a classic trio anyone can snack on. Sure, you could always just bring a random bag of chips, but people love dip. Salsa and Guacamole are easy to buy pre-made and it’s sure to be vegan and gluten-free. Everyone will be grazing on these all night long, thanks to you.
- Mac and Cheese
This option is for the more formal, Friendsgiving, or potluck style get-togethers. Showing up with a hot side is not always ideal, but when it comes from a box you can’t mess it up. I would say keep Annie’s gluten-free vegan boxed mac on hand for just this scenario. You can make it in a dorm kitchen or on an apartment stovetop. There is no fuss, and you can even jazz it up with spices or extra (dairy-free) cheese.
- Plates, Cups, Napkins, Utensils
If you don’t want to bring food, bring the essentials! Plates, cups, napkins, utensils, or ice is always appreciated. No one wants to do the dishes at their party, so having disposables on hand is a lifesaver. This way, you don’t have to worry about allergens or mess. However, if you’re worried about sustainability, they do make compostable dishes and cups. That way, the gathering is guilt-free and mess-free.