Tag: gluten free

Categories
Dinner Gluten Free Recipes Uncategorized

4 Ingredient Gluten Free Pizza

My two favorite foods are Sushi and Pizza.  I can eat both anytime of day with anyone but since learning of my wheat allergy and lactose intolerance. I try to stay away from all wheat which has made eating pizza hard.  I’ve tried the cauliflower crust but I guess I didn’t wring it out enough (I’ve tried three time) but it takes a lot of time to make Cauliflower crust and it also turn out soggy.  When I discovered this Quinoa Crust recipe I was so excited. After a few tweaks I look forward to Pizza night every week.

This recipe is really easy and it’s only 4 major ingredients. There is no kneading or letting the dough rice and it’s a nice thick crunchy crust to hold everything you want to put on your pizza.

Quinoa is also a great source of iron and has many other benefits.

  • High Content of Antioxidants Phytonutrients
  • Anti-inflammatory phytonutrients
  • Contains Higher Heart Healthy Fats content

There are so many toppings that you could use for this here are 10 Healthy Topping options:

  1. Spinach is your best choice for a pizz topping.  It has 13 different nutrients that you get in one serving. Spinach mostly contains concentrations of vitamin K, which helps you with effectively blod clotting. It also has over 13 different flavonoid compounds that contribute to preventing the condition of cancer
  2.  Broccoli is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin A and folate. It is another wise choice when picking toppings.
  3. Mushrooms only contain 15 calories per cup and they are made of over 50% protein which is 2g of protein. It also contains a high amount of selenium which protects us from free radicals. This would be in my Top 3 for great choices.
  4. Diced Chicken Breast is a great high protein low fat choice.  This is also a great option to add to your pizza for some extra protein.
  5. Garlic sliced, minced, crushed no matter how you cut it Garlic is delicious on pizza and oh so good for you. It also benefits your health it helps to support good cholesterol and helps to decrease the risk of heart disease. Although, too much can have it cswaeting out of your pores at the gym this week.
  6. Extra Tomato Sauce is an easy way to get lycopene into your meal. Lycopene has been discovered to prevent cancers of the lungs, stomach and prostate gland.
  7. Low-Fat or Vegan CheeseI have a cheese addiction and provolone and mozzarella mixed pizza cheese is my all time favorite BUT I am lactose intolerant so have to sub for vegan cheese and sometimes goat or feta. My favorite Vegan Cheese is Go Veggie for their taste but it doesn’t melt like provolone or mozzarella.  It’s a trade off for digestive comfort for me.If you get to enjoy cheese than I would go with a low-fat cheese because it’s a higher source of protein not for the lower fat. Just go easy on it
  8. Pineapple You Hawaiiain pizza lovers you can still do you thing.  Pineapple is an okay sweet addition to your pizza.  It’s a awesome source of maganese, Vitamin C and E giving you support for your eyesight, immune systems and eye sight.
  9. Parmesan Cheese I love Parmesan cheese because its one of the only cheeses’s I can consume.  It also is a great source of protein and lower in fat.  It makes thing crunchy or can make it goeey.
  10. Ham is a great, flavorful option. You can also do a lower fat sausage. It’s lower in fat than pepperoni, sausage and bacon.  

There are so many tasty options you can choose you just have to try new flavor combinations and discover the world of FaithFueled Foods.

[amd-yrecipe-recipe:35]

Share
Pin
Share
0 Shares
Categories
Breakfast Gluten Free Mealtime Monday Recipes

Protein Blender Muffins: Back-To-School Time Saver

I am a Brand Ambassador for Nuzest Usa and have included an affiliate link in this post that I receive a commission from purchases. My full disclosure policy

Back to School, YAY!

How were you the first week of school? For some of you, it’s been a few weeks and you probably have settled back into a routine and life is starting to take on its new normal for the next 8+ months.  For us Jersey peeps we have just finished up the hours’ long paperwork confirming that are a child is still the same child, with the same parents, living in the same house just another grade older.  After school activities have taken our chill summer nights away and we are anticipating the homework to come trickling in to add to our now more full to do list.  Oh, what happened to those preschool days where you just had to make sure they had a change of clothes and snacks.  My girls are now in fourth and eighth grade, and I remember from my now eighth grader. Third grade is where things start to become a little more challenging. More responsibilities are assumed, and that wonderful common core is in full swing.  I am happy that I got to go through it from Kindergarten-Seventh grade, or it could be a daunting task sitting down for homework.

Prep and Plan

I’ve been here before, so I thought this summer, “How can I make things a little easier?” Prep and Plan! That is my security blanket. I am an avid planner from our meals, schedule everything is done a month in advance.  So, late July early August it began. I gathered recipes for easy, healthy dinners so that I can feed my hungry brood and make Soccer and Field Hockey games and practices without sitting down at the end of the day feeling like I was just swept up in a Whirlwind.  I found these Blender Muffins on Cooking Light, but I had to change up the recipe a little to meet my daughter’s needs.  One daughter is lactose intolerant we have all adapted to a less dairy lifestyle in my home.  The other thing is protein. My middle daughter is a self-proclaimed Vegetarian except for hot dogs and tacos. (Yep! Hot dogs…sigh and slight eye roll) I am always trying to find ways to get my only fruit and veggie child to get more Protein.  After two experiments the first one didn’t turn out so well, I came up with these delicious muffins that feed everyone for a week, and I just have to make one batch.  You can make them in a variety like I did or just do one flavor.  I did the variety to mix it up during the week.

protein-blendermuffins

 

Convenient and Healthy

My tween & teen can grab and go in the morning, and she’s all set, and my middle can eat, and I know that she is getting everything she needs to start her day. I also made Egg Muffins which the in between child wants no parts of but my husband has found these convenient too as he is a Kindergarten teacher and is trying to remain on the clean eating plan that he has fully embraced over the summer months. My personal favorite is the Chocolate Walnut Muffins, but there are so many topping options you can do. We have Apple Chai, Chocolate Almond, Strawberry Chocolate, Strawberry Blueberry, Blueberry and next week going to give Mango and Banana a try. I hope you enjoy these fast, easy, yummy treats for your family, and if you try any new flavors, please let me know. I am always looking for ways to make meal time fun, healthy and tasty.

Add Some Fruit and Veggies in a Scoop

Nuzest has just come out with some great additions to their plant-based smoothie line. Now they have Fruit and Veggies which gives these protein muffins an extra punch of power for my girls.  Nuzest Just Fruits & Veg comes in three different flavors Wild Berry, Fresh Coconut, and Caco Mint. I used the Wild Berry in the protein muffins and they were delish. It’s also great for their after school needs post field hockey and soccer practice even as an easy tasty snack when they get home.  I love it because it is no artificial sweeteners, a great form of plant-based protein in their pea protein powder and an ingredient list of all real, junk-free ingredients that I recognize. Each scoop contains 5 fruits and 5 veggies and 9 essential amino acids. My oldest daughter is lactose and casein intolerant so this is easy for her to digest.  I rather they have fresh, fruits and veggies but I can find comfort in the Nuzest Just Fruit & Veg Smoothies and it also adds a great flavor to the protein muffins. Use coupon code “FaithFueled” to get 15% off your order!

What are your quick breakfast ideas?

 

[amd-yrecipe-recipe:36]

Share
Pin10
Share
10 Shares
Categories
Gluten Free Recipes

Cassava Flour Tortillas are Grain Free, Nut Free, Gluten Free and Tasty

 

Grain Free and Gluten Free Cassava Flour Tortillas

I have been about 95% gluten-free for two years. (I make exceptions for donuts from time to time). Since going gluten-free, I have had to forego some foods, but I have gained so much. Minimal digestion issues, clearer skin, more energy, and I actually enjoy eating food again. The reason I stopped eating gluten is that I discovered an allergy to wheat using a prick test from my Allergist.  Since then, I have tried to remove it from my diet. When I do eat wheat if I have a runny nose, itchy eyes, throat, tongue, mouth, skin breakouts, and digestive issues usually constipation. Since removing wheat from my diet, I don’t experience any of those symptoms. I don’t believe in living life on a diet, but I do believe in honoring my temple. Eating wheat doesn’t serve me well, so for the last two years, I have been removing it and finding alternatives to wheat. I also enjoy experimenting in the kitchen to invent grain-free options to my old faves.

Tortillas are a staple purchase in my home.  My girls will wrap up anything for breakfast.lunch and dinner.  I was substituting my tortillas for the corn, but sometimes you want a soft flour tortilla.  Over the last few years, I have been able to figure out ways to swap recipes for gluten-free ingredients.  It’s all about the flour different gluten-free flours work well for different things. Like almond flour is great for cornbread but makes cakes a little gritty. Rice flour is great for frying and baking.

Cassava Flour is Easy to use with Gluten-Free Baking

I have been playing with Cassava flour for about a month, and I love it. It’s nut-free, grain free and gluten free. Very fine and easy to work with the Cassava is a root vegetable. Cassava flour is the whole root, simply peeled, dried and ground. So, last night I experimented and created this four-ingredient Cassava Flour Tortilla! It was effortless, and they turned out very tasty!  I am learning that just because it’s gluten-free doesn’t mean that I have to forego the things I love.  I have had some gluten free fails, but this one was a win! These are sturdy, pliable, and taste delicious when you stuff them with whatever you feel.

One thing that you have to consider when baking differently than you’re accustomed too is that flavor and texture won’t be exactly what you’re missing but if you can find an equal substitute give it a try.  I have made some wraps with these tortillas, and they held up well.  I also made a Dairy-free Enchilada bake that was tasty, and Cassava Tortillas held up fine for leftovers the next day.

 

[amd-yrecipe-recipe:51]

So, if you’re looking for a gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free and dairy-free flour tortilla, I would give these a try! I am also sharing two recipes. Give my Enchilada Bake a try and let me know what you think?

 

 

Share
Pin
Share
0 Shares
Categories
Mealtime Monday Recipes

Vegan Family Classics with Barilla Chickpea Pasta

Reminiscing over a bowl of Pasta

As my daughters’ approaches fifteen I have been reminiscing. When looking back, we always associate memories with food. There are two meals that I think I will forever treasure. Every time I make these meals. It takes me back to a time before three kids. When I was a new mom to this new little girl and full of hope, fear, and love. It’s funny how vividly you remember your first. I can honestly say that I may not recall as detailed with my other two daughters. I guess you always remember your first time. 

Meals that come with Memories

I remember coming home from the hospital eager to introduce our new baby girl to her nursery.  As I walked in the door. My mother was in the kitchen making one of my childhood favorite meals.  Beef Stroganoff wafting in my nose as I began the daunting new life with this new child.  I cannot explain the gratitude to coming home to that meal.  I no longer associate it with childhood memories of my siblings, and I seated around the table for that yummy pasta dinner. Now its a fond memory of the beginning of motherhood.

Vegan “Beef” Stroganoff

My “Beef” Stroganoff is nothing like my mom’s. It’s now a dairy-free & meat free adaptation of my childhood favorite.  I also have found out that I am allergic to wheat within the last three years. So, other than the name,  Everything in my “Beef” Stroganoff recipe is different.

Some may say it’s a healthier version, but I don’t skimp out on the taste.  Gluten Free pasta has come a long way. My family has always used Barilla Pasta. It’s one of th4 best pastas cooking to al dente perfect in 7-9 minutes and it tastes good every time.

I find with other gluten-free pasta their either have too much rice making them mushy or overcooked. They also may have too much corn making leftovers a gritty mess.  Barilla gluten free pasta has always been my favorite until I found their Barilla Chickpea Pasta .

[amd-yrecipe-recipe:50]

Tasty Gluten Free Pasta

Then I came across a new find! Have you heard of Barilla Chick Pea Pasta?  I was skeptical at first until I tried the Barilla Chickpea Gluten free pasta! It’s perfect! Not mushy and hello it is packed with protein.  Adding extra protein boost and fiber to my diet was a second benefit.  I usually get Barilla Gluten Free pasta and saw the new box in the aisle. Fiber and plant-based protein is an excellent addition to your meal.  I love that there is one ingredient nothing is enriched; It’s merely chickpea flour.

“Sausage” Pesto Pasta

Another dish that reminds me of my oldest daughter is Sausage Pesto Pasta. It’s an effortless very delicious meal that I found years ago.  I love to make it for New Mom’s families because it’s easy and tastes like love. At least that’s what I have been told. Anytime I ask my family, “What do you want for dinner?” Kyhia always requests Sausage Pesto Pasta, and it’s never rejected by other family members. I can safely say it’s one of her favorites.  This dish is easily switched from dairy-free to dairy with a swap of two ingredients.

“Sausage” Pesto Pasta Recipe

  • 10 oz. Gosh! Vegan Sausage
  • 8 oz. Container Kite Hill Almond Cream Cheese
  • 8 oz Package Earth Grown Mozzarella Shreds
  • 5 oz. bag of Spinach
  • 1 jar Barilla Pesto
  • 2 cloves garlic.minced
  • 1/2 onion, grated
  • Salt & Pepper To taste
  • 8oz. Barilla Chick Pea Pasta

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees
  2. Mix Cream Cheese, Spinach, Barilla pesto,garlic and onion
  3.  Add Warm Barilla Chick Pea Pasta and Mix.
  4. Add Don Lee Farms Sausage and Mozzarella Shreds
  5. Bake at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes until shreds are melted.
  6. Enjoy the deliciousness.

Food Sensitivities and Allergies

As Kyhia is getting older, we realize that like her Mama she has food sensitivities. It’s nice to have a Gluten Free, Lactose-Free Pasta to make her favorite meal.  There are so many dairy substitutes that will never taste like dairy products but are similar enough alternative.

According to the American Nutrition Association,” 70,000,000 people every day suffer from some form of digestive issues.” Growing up I never had food allergies.  It wasn’t until I was in my teens I had mild reactions to certain foods when tested like wheat and peas.

After I had my second daughter things changed.  I began having stomach aches & migraine headaches almost immediately after I ate.  It would also cause extreme gas and bloating.  When it came to the point where I didn’t want to eat  because it was so painful. I decided to go to the Doctor to see what was wrong.

I had the blood test done testing for Celiacs Sprux, Bacterium and H.pylori.  All came back negative, but that didn’t make stomach pains go away.  We did an elimination diet eliminating dairy first which relieved some of the pain, but I still would continuously have an itchy throat, always clearing my throat, migraines, running or clogged nose.  Never associating it with the things I was eating.  I also was trying to eat healthily and was eating whole wheat.

After continued issues I finally got an allergy test. Through testing I discovered that my healthy choices were causing me what seemed like indoor/outdoor allergy symptoms and digestive issues. My allergy test concluded that I was allergic to certain strains of pollen that can be found in wheat, legumes, and citrus fruits like pineapple.  Little did I know that the daily allergy suffering that I thought was from outdoor/indoor pollen were actually from wheat found in the food, skincare, and other products.

Alternatives to Family Classics

Much like myself, my daughter is sensitive to dairy but has no food allergies but a few sensitivities. We still eat gluten-free in my home because it’s easier than making two meals and cross contamination. Often I make a dairy-free alternative when it comes to dinner. Barilla pasta has always been a family favorite and has been able to transition with my family and as we discover options to your traditional pasta like Barilla ChickPea Pasta.  Things have changed on the dinner plate, but when you have the right ingredients, the food will taste good no matter if it is gluten or not.

My Kyhia will be leaving me soon, and I know this won’t be in the dinner rotation as often.  I will savor these yummy meal time request. You have to try the Sausage Pesto Pasta. Tell me what you think? You’re welcome in advance.

Do you have a meal that brings back memories?

My blog is in partnership with Barilla Pasta through Linqia.  I make a commission off the affiliates links, but that does not affect my opinion. I chose these brands because I believe in the product and what they stand for. My Full Disclosure Policy

Share
Pin
Share
0 Shares
Categories
christian mom Faith & Self Care

Gluten Free and Allergy Friendly Expo 2018

Why is Gluten Free not a diet for me?

Do I get asked what diet do you follow?  If you look at what I ate and wanted to classify it as a diet it could be considered paleo, keto or Mediterranean but one thing that it will not include is gluten and dairy.  Over this weight loss journey and as I shared along the way a few years ago, I discovered that I had a wheat allergy. Since eliminating wheat from my life, I have found so many positive benefits.  All my life I have had hyperpigmentation and bad skin. No longer I have a healthy glow. I also had to remove wheat from my skincare products.

A Wheat Allergy Diagnosis

I have also suffered from digestive issues such as constipation, leaky gut, and extreme bloating and gas.  My now flat tummy is not only from diligent work but from eliminating wheat in my diet.

Gluten Free and Allergy Friendly Expo

Initially, it was so daunting trying to find products that were gluten-free, tasty and didn’t have a lot of other extra ingredients.  Just because it is gluten-free doesn’t mean it’s healthy. When I went to my first Gluten Free and Allergy Friendly Expo three years ago. It was an excellent opportunity to see all the products that are available to try, see, read ingredients labels. If you are unsure of your food allergies, they have testing available.

 

Other Wellness Products

Last year, I also got to experience other Wellness Products such that helped remove toxins, metals and other adverse things that we accumulate from our lifestyle.  I was able to check out some cool skincare and makeup brands that were wheat free. Was educated at almost every vendor table and the event empowered me to make a living a gluten-free lifestyle and smoother transition.  

The innovation of Allergy Friendly Products

I look forward to it now every year where I get to discover new products, services, and organizations that are revolutionizing food allergies for everyone. Also, because of these products, there are a lot more options that there were years ago.  As companies which are usually founded because of their children or their own food allergies discoveries. You will get to meet innovative people who wouldn’t accept food allergies for what they were and set out to create better products for those afflicted.  

Family Event

The Gluten Free and Allergy Friendly expo is a great family event.  If you are looking for other food alternatives, trying to change your own diet like I was at one point in time or just looking to see what innovations and creations in the food industry. I would highly recommend attending.  

Since completely eliminating Gluten from my diet I feel 100% better and never thought that my allergies could be remedied easily. I am so glad that I have the Gluten Free and Allergy Free Expo to keep me updated on the best products that are out there for me.

Join Me at the Expo

If you want to attend this year, it will be held in the same location as previous years.  

October 13-14, 2018
10:00 am – 3:00 pm on Saturday the 13th
10:00 am – 3:00 pm on Sunday the 14th
Meadowlands Exposition Center
355 Plaza Drive
Secaucus, NJ 07094
Click HERE for directions.
Click HERE for a map.

Parking is free.

The use of strollers, carts or wagons is prohibited except as needed for transporting children or medical equipment.

Call the venue at 201-330-7773
It’s also not too late to grab tickets you can get them here: 
USE PROMO CODE: “ADVANCE” for 20% off until 10/13
I hope you can come! Do you have a food allergy and how have you been able to find products to help make life easier?
I am a Gluten Free and Allergy Friendly Influencer. I received free tickets and tickets for giveaway in exchange for promotion and coverage of the event.  All my opinions are mine and my affiliation did not affect my statements My Full Disclosure Policy 
Share
Pin1
Share
1 Shares