Whether you?re new to the gluten-free lifestyle or are a seasoned veteran who enjoys wheat-, rye-, and barley-free fare, finding quick and easy gluten-free options can be a challenge.
Or it used to be a challenge. In the past few years, major brand name foods have launched gluten-free options. The rise in popularity coincides with greater awareness of gluten allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities such as celiac disease. Gluten-free eating has also gained popularity due to its success in treating symptoms of ADHD and autism spectrum disorders.
Once upon a time (about five years ago), following a gluten-free lifestyle meant spending more time than the average person finding foods at the store and preparing them at home. There was also a lot of cooking involved, and it often meant giving up a lot of the foods you love. While you may like spending time in the kitchen, it?s also convenient to have a few options readily available for a quick meal. So kick back, relax, and enjoy these gluten-free foods.
Breakfast
Many of us start our day with toast, bagels, and cereal?traditional breakfast foods that are also traditionally full of gluten. Thankfully, you can enjoy simple, classic breakfast fare with gluten-free adaptations of pancakes, cinnamon bread, and cereal, to name a few. If you eat meat, a meal of bacon, eggs, gluten-free toast, and fruit is a filling option.
Snacks
If fruit or fresh veggies aren?t your favorite snack, or you simply desire some variety, gluten-free snack crackers, chips, pretzels, and cookies are now available in abundance.
Popcorn is gluten-free, but low in nutrients. To beef it up a bit, sprinkle nutritional yeast, which is high in B vitamins and flavor, over the popcorn. Another alternative is fruit sorbet, which can easily be made at home by blending frozen fruit and juice in a food processor, and re-freezing for one hour.
Lunch or Dinner
After a day of work, driving the kids to and from school, and running errands, a quick yet delicious meal is nothing short of a lifesaver.
Tomato pasta sauce is often gluten-free (but check the label!) and readily available to compliment the numerous brands of rice pasta lining grocery store shelves.
Gluten-free pizza crust is a hot item?most brands call for water, oil, and an egg. Top the crust with tomato paste, your favorite veggies, meats, and cheese for a quick and easy meal.
The things you can make with lettuce wraps are limitless?hummus and veggies, ham and cream cheese, even peanut butter and jelly are popular main dishes.
Desserts & Treats
You may want to bake a gluten-free treat for a birthday party, social event, or simply for a sweet bite after dinner, yet you probably don?t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Many mixes have the ingredients all measured and prepared for you. Just stir in water, oil, and an egg; pop it in the oven, and voila! Dessert!
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