Going gluten-free has become quite a popular trend, and for good reason. Not only does it help alleviate symptoms for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, but it’s also a great way to improve overall health. Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, can cause inflammation in the body and lead to a host of health issues. Transitioning to a gluten-free lifestyle can be challenging, but here are a few of the best gluten-free recipes to get you started.
1. Quinoa Salad
Quinoa is a great gluten-free grain that can be used in a variety of dishes. This Quinoa Salad recipe is filling, nutritious, and versatile. It’s also easy to make, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until tender and the water is absorbed.
4. Fluff quinoa with a fork and let cool.
5. In a large bowl, mix together the quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss until well combined.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
2. Sweet Potato Toast
Bread is often a staple in our diet, but with gluten-free options being expensive, it’s time to get creative. Sweet Potato Toast is a delicious, nutritious, and gluten-free alternative that’s a great substitute for regular toast. It’s also perfect for those following a Paleo diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted toppings (avocado, hummus, almond butter, sliced banana, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the sweet potato into 1/4-inch slices.
3. Brush both sides of each slice with coconut oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
5. Let cool slightly and top with your favorite toppings.
3. Gluten-Free Pizza
Pizza is often off-limits for those with gluten sensitivities, but this Gluten-Free Pizza recipe is a game-changer. With a gluten-free crust made from almond flour and tapioca starch, this pizza is a healthier option compared to traditional pizza options.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup tapioca starch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Assorted toppings (mushrooms, peppers, onions, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, tapioca starch, salt, baking powder, and garlic powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, olive oil, and warm water.
4. Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the dough out into a circle.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until slightly browned.
7. Remove from the oven and add tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Cauliflower Fried Rice
Cauliflower is a great substitute for rice, and this Cauliflower Fried Rice recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. This recipe is also perfect for those following a low-carb or Paleo diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 head cauliflower, chopped
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1/2 cup onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup carrots, chopped
– 1/2 cup peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoon coconut aminos
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, pulse cauliflower until it resembles rice.
2. In a large wok or skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, carrots, and peas and cook for 5 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Add cauliflower rice and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender.
6. Push the mixture to one side of the pan and crack the eggs onto the other side.
7. Scramble the eggs and mix with the cauliflower mixture.
8. Add coconut aminos and stir until well combined.
Going gluten-free doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste and variety in your diet. These gluten-free recipes are not only delicious, but they also promote a healthier lifestyle. Adding these dishes into your meal plan can help improve your overall health and wellness.
