Gluten Free Product Recommendations

When I find a product that not only tastes amazing but has an important mission, I’m all for it!

Gator Ron’s Zesty Sauces & Mixes are healthy, all natural and gluten free. And what’s even better than that is their mission to enhance awareness of ALS – a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Constance Griffith established Gator Ron’s after her husband’s death from ALS. He had a passion for developing delicious sauces and she wanted to share his creations with foodies everywhere. And in his honor, Gator Ron’s donates a percentage of all profits to ALS research at Johns Hopkins.

Now that’s a powerful story all on its own. But what makes it even better is that the sauces and mixes taste fantastic! Oh, and did I mention all the sauces and mixes are also dairy free and GMO free?

One of my favorites is the Bloody Mary mix – it is delicious and does not need any extra doctoring up. And the barbecue sauces taste authentic and go great on all kinds of dishes. Another thing I love about these sauces is that they come in original or spicy/chipotle versions for those like me who like a little extra spice!

So if you’d like to check out some tasty sauces and mixes that will be perfect for barbecues this summer (or anytime for that matter), visit Gator Ron’s website.

I absolutely love the amazing flavors and convenience of Curry Love’s organic curries.

There are many flavor-packed curries to choose from, including Yellow Thai Curry, Caribbean Curry and Tikka Masala. My hubby likes the milder flavors, but I actually could eat the hot Red Thai Curry right off the spoon!

These sauces can help turn ordinary foods into extraordinary meals and are so convenient and easy to work with. They are all gluten free and some are also dairy free, soy free, sugar free, vegan and vegetarian. And not to mention, they are low in sodium.

Curry Love is a small family business that produces certified organic curries that are made in California. They are simply to-die-for. I can understand why they named the brand Curry Love, because seriously, what’s not to love about these sauces?

Curry Love’s organic curries are available in some supermarkets and health food stores. To see if they are available near you or to order online, check out their website. And while you’re there, take a look at their amazing variety of authentic recipes!

 

As many of you might know, gluten is not only found in food, but in cosmetics too! If it wasn’t enough that we have to watch what we eat we also have to stay away from certain mascaras and foundations. So what’s a gluten-free girl to do?

Well, if you want cosmetics that are free from gluten, free from toxic ingredients and are vegan friendly, I recommend you try Rejuva Minerals.

I was surprised at how much coverage the foundation provided and how great it felt on my skin. And the texture of my skin was super smooth, which is a must in my book!

If you have sensitive skin, you’re in luck. Rejuva Minerals offers loose powder products that are free from common irritants like mica and titanium dioxide. And their powder brushes have soft bristles that won’t irritate your skin.

Their products are made in the USA in an FDA registered and GMP facility. And not only that, their products are free of pesky things like nanoparticles and GMO’s. Because who needs those?

And to top it off, they are eco friendly, which means you’ll not only look good with their products, but you’ll feel good using them! Their products are available in eco friendly containers that are composed of up to 90% recycled natural fibers and their boxed items are printed with soy ink.

So if you’re looking to switch to allergen free, eco friendly cosmetics, give Rejuva Minerals a try! Check out Rejuva Minerals on their website.

 

 

 

These gluten free protein bars are packed with goodies! They not only have plenty of protein (11-13 grams each, depending on which flavor), but they are also a good source of omega-3 and fiber. And not just that, they are all-natural, dairy free, vegan, non GMO, preservative free, contain no artificial sweeteners and coming June 2013 they will also be soy free. Whew! That’s a lot of goodness in one bar!

Oh and did I mention they’re tasty, too? My favorites are the Peanut Butter Chocolate and the Cranberry Almond – they’re absolutely to die for!

The Gluten Free Bar, or GFB, was created by two brothers with gluten intolerance. They were tired of the funky-tasting gluten free protein bars in stores, so they decided to come up with their own. And boy, am I glad they did!

Not only do I like these bars, but the company is pretty great too. These bars are made in small batches in a dedicated gluten free facility in Michigan. The brothers believe in simple ingredients and their mission is to make the world’s best gluten free protein bars. Pretty cool if you ask me!

These bars are available at a variety of health food stores and supermarkets, or you can check out all the varieties of the GFB at their website.

This is the first time I am recommending a product I have not actually tasted. The reason? My dog Jake was the official tester of this particular product!

I should tell you that Jake is highly sensitive to a ton of foods, tends to get itchy, and has been known to throw up almost immediately when he eats something that he can’t tolerate. He also happens to be picky when it comes to his diet, I take the blame, I have spoiled him with freshly prepared meals (a ton of work but I love my dog!)

I think that makes Jake a pretty good taste tester for Frenchie’s Kitchen’s all natural dog food. Frenchie’s Kitchen makes a line of dog food with no processed grains, no corn, no wheat, no soy, no preservatives, and no flavorings or colorings from a recipe based on Whole Food Nutrition for pets’ concept under the guidance of Holistic Vet who practices Food Therapy and Healing through Nutrition.

Frenchies Kitchen make three varieties all specifically designed to address certain dietary needs for your dog; Beef, Barley & Veggies - benefits dogs with inflammation, arthritis, or cancer, Chicken, Rice & Veggies – great for dogs with digestive issues and Turkey, Quinoa & Veggies - Grain-free, Gluten-free and a good choice for dogs with allergies

Since Jake is also gluten sensitive, I had him try the Turkey, Quinoa & Veggies for over a week. I am happy to report no itching, no vomiting and he gobbled it up and licked his bowl clean! For me, it was a lot easier to feed him this nutritious, complete, and balanced meal than to prepare my own – a win-win situation!

Aside from producing a truly superior product (included on the 2013 List of Best Pet Foods by Susan Thixton) – the food is made in USDA Human Food Facility with 100% USDA Human Grade WHOLE Food Ingredients, Frenchie’s Kitchen is also making a difference for dogs, they have a rescue page on their website and a portion of all proceeds are donated to rescue groups and no kill shelters.

If you love your dog as much as I love my Jake, look for Frenchie’s Kitchen’s all natural dog meals in various heath food or pet stores or shop on line at their website.

 

 

 

Every morning, my husband starts off his day by reading the paper with a cup of coffee and biscotti. While I am certainly capable of baking up gluten free biscotti, I can’t seem to keep up with his daily consumption. His little secret is that he keeps a stash of store bought gluten filled biscotti for when I don’t have time to bake for him. Until now that is.

Bridge City Baking makes delectable gluten free Cranberry Orange Almond Biscotti that are to die for! These hand-cut artisan Biscotti are perfectly baked to be crunchy without being hard. The aroma of freshly squeezed orange juice combined with plump cranberries and sweet almonds is intoxicating and while they are gluten free, they are certainly not gourmet free! Now my husband can start his day the way he likes, and I don’t have to feel guilty about not being able to keep up with his biscotti habit!

Biscotti is not the only thing Bridge City Baking makes; they have a line of pies and pocket pies that are all made from scratch using all natural, preservative free and local fruit whenever possible. The crusts are rich and flaky, and the fruit fillings are gently simmered in order to maintain their fresh fruit texture and enhanced with natural fruit juices and flavors. They use only one ounce of sugar per pound leaving the sweetness up to the fruit.

Bridge City Baking also makes delicious coffees cakes, cheesecakes, rugelach, and the ultimate in comfort food – biscuits! How great is it to have a hot, gluten free biscuit at home that all you have to do is pop in the oven? The chicken and biscuits I made using Bridge City Baking biscuits was fabulous! How I have longed for the convenience of being able to use a pre-prepared gluten free biscuit! Bridge City Baking has made making gluten free comfort food so easy! Their biscuits come in three varieties: Classic, Basil Parmesan and Jalapeno Cheddar – all rich, buttery and fabulous!

Bridge City Baking is a certified gluten-free kitchen, operating under the strict health and sanitation guidelines of the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America and they also operate under the principles of Good Manufacturing Practices. Their products are baked totally from scratch guaranteeing freshness and care, and none of their products contain trans fats or hydrogenated oils.

 

 

 

If you are lucky enough to live in Clovis (a small town east of Fresno in Central California) you have most likely had the pleasure of stopping in at Gluten Free Please! Bakery – a wonderful bakery where EVERYTHING is gluten free. If not, no worries because now Gluten Free Please! has mixes and products that you can order online and enjoy no matter where you live.

Gluten Free Please! is a 100 percent dedicated gluten free facility committed to providing gluten free baked goods that allow everyone to enjoy delicious dessert items, breads and treats without sacrificing their taste buds! In addition to everything being gluten free, most of their products are soy free and dairy/casein free. They also accommodate other food allergies such as egg, corn and yeast.

The first product I tried from Gluten Free Please! was their Cheese Bits Crackers; my father (who lives with me) is always asking me to buy him those gluten-filled cheese crackers. I try to maintain a gluten free kitchen but I also try to keep my Dad happy. I decided to see if Gluten Free Please! Cheese Bits could convince Dad to make the switch from gluten filled to gluten free. I am happy to report that the crackers not only passed my own taste test, they passed Dad’s too!

Gluten Free Please! offers a whole line of baking mixes that are equally great. Their All-Purpose Flour can be used to make a variety of gluten free baked goods and dishes, simply by substituting 1:1 in any recipe as a replacement for traditional flour. Xanthan gum already included. They also make Cake Flour, which is lighter than their All-Purpose and can be used to make cakes, cookies, brownies, cupcakes and muffins.

The Gluten Free Please! Pizza Mix is soy free, dairy free and egg free and is perfect for making pizza crust, calzones, breadsticks, and pizza pockets.  The Dinner Roll Mix is dairy free, egg free, yeast free, and soy free.

Baking gluten free is now a whole lot easier thanks to Gluten Free Please! but if you prefer not to bake, no worries! Gluten Free Please! also offers a line of baked goods that can be shipped right out to you which include Cinnamon Bread, Dinner Rolls, Hamburger and Hot Dog Buns, Croutons and French Bread as well as a line of delicious Cookies!

 

 

 

I am a snacker – it is just a fact of life for me. While I certainly enjoy sitting down for a meal, I seem to need to eat little bits of something throughout the day. Sadly, not all my snacks are all that great for me (or my waistline!)

Recently, I have taken to snacking in a different way – with healthy, high protein, all natural Beef Slices from PJ’s. Not to be confused with beef jerky, PJ’s All-Natural Beef Steak are tender pieces of premium cut beef prepared from only the finest all-natural ingredients with no gluten, MSG, artificial ingredients, preservatives, or nitrates added.  PJ’s unique 7-day slow cooking cycle preserves every bite of fabulous beef without the hardening, taste-draining chemicals that most beef jerky makers rely on. The result is a deliciously tender, all-natural, high-protein, healthy food that’s good for you and your family!

PJ’s All-Natural Beef Steak is available in 3 different flavors (Original, Cracked Pepper, and Teriyaki) and 2 different cuts (Slices and Tenders).

I have been traveling a bit recently and PJ’s has been a lifesaver for me! Beef Jerky used to be a go-to snack for me on road trips; the problem was that jerky is tough, hard to chew, gets stuck in my teeth and is usually filled with things I would rather not ingest. Having a bag or two of PJ’s All-Natural Beef Steak in my bag has kept me from snacking on other gluten free alternatives that are not exactly healthy (like candy!) while on the go. When stuck in the airport with no healthy gluten free options available, PJ’s kept my hunger at bay, my stamina up, and, (fortunately for everyone else) the grouchiness that comes with hunger away! They are also a great, high protein pick-me-up after an hour at the gym.

PJ’s also makes chipped and dried beef. As a test, I gave some of their pre-made, microwaveable creamed chipped beef to my Dad, a retired Air Force Pilot, who is a big fan of chipped beef and has had his fair share over the years. The verdict? It passed with flying colors!

Look for PJ’s All-Natural Beef Steak tenders or slices in fine retailers and on-line.

 

 

 

Gluten free products are literally sent to me every day – so you can imagine that it takes a lot to get my attention. Moon Rabbit Foods grabbed my attention, big time!

Moon Rabbit Foods makes a line of gluten free Baking Mixes that are truly superior. They are what I call “pastry quality”.

The first thing I tried (and swooned over) was the Pie Dough Mix. To be honest, I thought this would be the one least likely to impress me. But I was wrong! I make a very good pie crust from scratch, so to have a mix impress me is saying something. The result was flaky, light and everything you want in a pie crust. I served mini tarts to my guests at a huge holiday party I hosted; the majority of the people there were not gluten free. The comments were unanimous – the tarts were fabulous!

Moon Rabbits Cornbread, Focaccia and Pizza Dough, Biscuit and Scone, Brownies and Yellow Cake Mixes were all equally delicious. One for one, each of the products I tried and tested was spectacular.

It is no wonder Moon Rabbit Foods mixes are so fabulous; they are created by traditional pastry chefs with many years of experience working in some of the country’s most renowned restaurants including : The Four Seasons Resorts, Disney World Orlando and Ritz Carlton Hotels. Taking their passion for and considerable knowledge of pastry making and applying it to gluten free has resulted in mixes you will be proud to serve to anyone – gluten free or not!

For the folks at Moon Rabbit Foods, it is all about helping those who live with Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity to have not just better options, but delicious, fine quality foods. Their goal is to blend their desire and experience to create great tasting foods that ultimately promote healthier lifestyles. Personally, I feel they are living up to their goals in spades!

You can find Moon Rabbit Foods mixes at select fine retailers, on Amazon.com and on their own website.

 

 

 

Nowadays it seems like everyone is jumping on the gluten free bandwagon.  This can be both a good thing and a bad thing.  With so many Johnny-Come-Lately to the world of gluten free, it is nice to know that some companies have been around, doing it gluten free and doing it well, for a long time. Jennies All Natural Gluten Free Macaroons founder, Arnold Badner, (fondly known as the “Macaroon King”) has been producing the #1 selling macaroon since 1973!

Jennies All Natural Gluten Free Macaroons are made with just unsweetened sulfite-free coconut, organic cane sugar, honey, and egg whites. Not only are they naturally gluten free and Kosher Parve, they have never contained dairy, sulfites, trans fats or preservatives and are made in a dedicated gluten free, dairy free facility.

The ingredients list may sound simple but oh how those ingredients are transformed; these macaroons are moist, tender, and perfectly sweet – the coconut shines!

Jennies All Natural Gluten Free Macaroons come in a variety of flavors. Of course there is the traditional, (just like your Bubbie would make if your Bubbie was a really awesome baker) but then there is also chocolate, almond, carob and ginger.

As if it weren’t enough for Jennies to create the most luscious, sophisticated macaroons, now they have even added the chocolate-covered and chocolate drizzle macaroon. The chocolate drizzle macaroon is a heavenly combination of moist, sweet coconut covered with dairy free chocolate.  They are an elegant treat. But their chocolate covered macaroons are downright sinful!

Jennies even makes Omega3 Gluten-Free Macaroons, enriched with flax seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds; these are perfect for a quick hit of energy with a sweet twist.  For those who avoid sugar there are sugar free macaroons!  Honestly, there is a Jennies All Natural Gluten Free Macaroon at jenniesglutenfree.com for everyone.

 

 

 

Have you ever tried buffalo meat? If not, I have some compelling reasons for you to consider. First off, all buffalo meat is lower in fat and calories than lean beef and pork and even boneless, skinless chicken breasts! As a matter of fact, buffalo contains only 20 percent of the fat in lean beef! It also has more protein than pork and beef and it certainly has more flavor than skinless chicken breasts!

I recently had the pleasure of trying some Buffalo Jerky from The Buffalo Guys. I am not exactly sure what I was expecting; but I certainly wasn’t expecting such a moist and flavorful treat. Not only does Buffalo Guys produce incredible jerky, they also sell steaks, burgers, ribs, stew meat, boneless tenderloin and some pretty darn awesome hot dogs and sausages – all made with buffalo meat.  And to help you season that buffalo up right, they also sell a couple flavors of gluten free seasoning mix.

What we call the buffalo, is an incredible animal, but first I should clear something up – American buffalo aren’t really buffalo at all, they are bison. They have been on the North American continent for over 300,000 years.  (Talk about a Paleo perfect food!)

Once in North America there were an estimated 30-70 million bison roaming around. By 1889, less than 1,000 were left and those were saved by the combined efforts of the Bronx Zoo and a small group of ranchers. In 1905, the American Bison Society was formed to save the bison and protect range land for the animals. The bison herds of today number in excess of 500,000 and are growing.

All of this is to tell you another reason why I love Buffalo Guys – it is their mission to provide quality and healthful buffalo (or bison if you will) products while preserving the health and integrity of the reemerging North American herds and the environment that sustains us all. They actively promote healthful land and animal management practices that aid the environment, the buffalo herds, and we consumers in maintaining a healthy and sustainable balance.

Socially responsible and fantastic, all-natural products that are healthful and delicious!  I can totally recommend this company and their buffalo meat to any and all.  (Make sure you try the jerky – again, it is out of this world!)

You can buy The Buffalo Guys products on line or go to their website to find a retailer near you.

 

 

I like crackers. They are great for topping with stuff, spreading stuff on them and dipping into stuff. Until now that’s all I really expected from a cracker – that it be a good vehicle for something else; especially with a gluten free cracker.

I recently gobbled down some crackers that needed no stuff! They were so good that putting stuff on them would have been a crime (like putting ketchup on filet mignon!) I am talking some seriously tasty crackers; they were crisp and crunchy, hearty and rustic and utterly delicious all on their own.

These fabulous gluten free crackers, made by Living Spoonful are not only incredibly tasty; they are incredibly good for you. Living Spoonful Crackers are sprouted sunflower seeds that are naturally gluten-free. A young, growing seed is packed full of vitamins and enzymes that get destroyed by most factory processes. This means that these sprouts seed crackers are more digestible – always a plus for us who need to be gluten free.

The folks at Living Spoonful start with the highest quality organic ingredients available, sourced locally whenever possible, then they are mixed, formed into cracker and dehydrated – not baked. This helps to preserve the fragile enzymes and vitamins in the food. You can even see pieces of vegetables in the crackers! These are raw, gluten free crackers that I would proudly serve at my fanciest dinner party – seriously, they are that good!

The crackers come in six flavors; Caraway Crisps, Coconut Curry, Pesto Pumpkin Seed, Sourdough, Sunny Garden Herb, and my favorite, Pizza.

Living Spoonful crackers are available online but take my advice, buy more than you think you will need, they have a tendency to disappear!

 

 

 

 

 

 

I recently had the pleasure of tasting something so different, so amazing, and for me, so special, I just had to tell you about it – it is called Calamondin Coulis.  Cala-what?  Calamondin Coulis from Calamondin Cafe.

Coulis is basically a fancy French word for fruit puree.  While I am a big fan of coulis in general that is not what makes this stuff special.  What makes it special is that it is made with Calamondin.

Calamondin is a small citrus fruit with an intoxicating flavor that brings to my mind the fabulous love-child of a lime and an orange.  I know them well because I lived in the Philippines as a kid and in the Philippines they eat them unripe and they are very tart – dare I say sour? What I didn’t know was that when left to ripen, they develop a subtle sweetness and tropical complexity of flavor – much better in my opinion.  And also in the opinion of the owners of Calamondin Café who create this luscious puree.

They grow their own all natural, toxin-free, hand-picked Calamondin fruit in Bokeelia, Florida, and process that exotic citrus goodness in their kitchen in Fort Myers, Florida. The sparkling, tropical gluten-free coulis is made in a fruit curd style and can be used as a calamondin concentrate in other recipes. This is a special product. It is a unique, bright, intense citrus sensation that has been called “The American Yuzu”.

Calamondin Coulis just cries out to be played around with in recipes but personally, I enjoy it on ice cream, gluten free toast and right off the spoon!

Everything from the growing process at Calamondin Cafe , the painstaking hand picking procedure, hand squeezing the fruit to remove seeds and ultimately, the cooking of the coulis is done with love and care and it shows!

To try this unique flavor sensation, hop over to their website.

 

 

Things have change in the gluten free world the last few years. We can buy breads, pastas, and baked goods that taste great!  We are lucky – we no longer have to compromise in taste because something is gluten free.

As good as gluten free pasta has gotten over the years what has been missing until now is fresh gluten free pasta.  Yes – FRESH gluten free pasta!  Thanks to RP’s Pasta Company, fresh pasta is missing no more!

RP’s Pasta Company is an artisan food manufacturer to its core.  They use the finest, all natural ingredients; make the pasta in small batches, with an appreciation for Old World culinary traditions, and most importantly, a love for food.

RP’s Pasta has long been renowned for their authentic, fresh pasta.  When founder and owner Peter Robertson was approached by a long time customer who was emotionally distraught over finding out they could no longer eat wheat and gluten thus having to forgo his delicious pasta, he set out to develop a gluten free recipe to equal or even surpass the quality of the great fresh pasta RP’s was making. In 2008 there was a EUKEKA!! moment when it happened. RP’s started making fresh gluten free/wheat free pasta that matched the quality of their traditional semolina pastas.

All RP’s gluten free pastas are made in a dedicated gluten free facility so it’s certified gluten free! I am personally grateful to that customer and to Peter!

RP’s gluten free fresh pasta cooks in just two minutes meaning you can have a fabulous gluten free pasta dinner on the table in no time!

Look for RP’s fresh gluten free pasta in Whole Foods and other fine retailers across the country.

 

 

You know how it is – you want a sweet, decadent gluten free treat and you want it now!  Not an hour or two later – the time it takes you to make it (assuming you are a really great baker.)  You want to have the same convenience that people who are not gluten free have, to be able to run to the store and pick up a beautiful cake, torte or some brownies for dessert.  And most of all, you want that treat to taste just as fabulous as its gluten filled counterpart.

Thanks to Blossom Fine Foods, you can have it all!  Fabulous desserts and breads that just happen to be gluten-free!  Blossom Fine Foods is a bakery that specializes in gluten free desserts and bread, established by people who want to offer delicious desserts that are gluten-free without sacrificing quality or taste.

They offer a diverse mix of 14 different gluten-free products, many of which are available in individual, dual, or party sizes; just right if it is just you, you and your honey or a whole crowd!  With items like Berry Streusel Cheesecake, Mocha Cheesecake, Coffee Cakes, Gluten-Free Vegan Chocolate Cake, Marble Brownies, Carrot Cake and Almond Mocha Meringue, you are sure to find the perfect fix for your pastry cravings.

Committed to providing safe gluten free baked goods (all of their products are certified gluten-free by the GFCO), they control the gluten free purity of their products in their own gluten-free bakery and use only the finest ingredients, including organic sweeteners.

Head over to Whole Foods and other fine retailers to pick up your own tempting treat from Blossom Fine Foods.  Go ahead and share with the gluten eaters in your life. You’ll make them very, very jealous!

 

 

The Crab Ladies say that their crabcakes are so good you will want to kiss the cook.  Well, if one those crab-lady-cooks were right here in front of me I would most definitely land a big fat smack right on her lips! These are some seriously GOOD crabcakes!

There are many things about these crabcakes that make them exceptional.  First of all, these babies are packed with crab!  These are not crabcakes that are mostly filler with a touch of crab thrown in.  Secondly, these are big – baseball sized big!  Big beautiful baseballs filled with crab.  Thirdly, they are frozen, which makes them convenient.  Somehow these Crab Ladies have figured out how to make really great crabcakes, freeze them and still have them turn our perfectly.

The Crab Ladies crabcakes come in three varieties; Original (Maryland Style), Artichoke Three Cheese, and Bacon & Gruyere.  Hmm, where to start?  I started with the Original and worked my up through the artichoke and ended with the bacon and gruyere.  I will be honest, I thought that the bacon and gruyere would overpower the crab – but I was wrong!  Somehow that little smokiness from the bacon and that crisp cheesiness from the gruyere just all worked beautifully, actually highlighting the sweetness of the abundant crabmeat.

I for one am thrilled to have found crabcakes that are not just gluten free but ridiculously good as well.  Bravo Crab Ladies!!!

You can find The Crab Ladies Crabcakes in Wegmans, Williams Sonoma, and other fine retailers or you can go to their website and order them shipped right to your home from Maryland – the birthplace of crabcakes!

 

BumbleBars are snack bars you can feel good about – in more ways than one!  They are gluten free, organic, vegan, ethically source, sesame snack bars that are as delicious as they are nutritious.  And I might add they are kid-approved as well!

With fourteen amazing flavors which include Amazing Almond, Lushus Lemon, Harvest Hazelnut, Chunky Cherry, and Chocolate Peanut Butter, you are sure to find something to please every palate.

One thing that makes BumbleBars unique is that, unlike most bars, they are made with 100 percent organic ingredients.  In fact, they were the very first organic food bar.  Back in 1995 the creator of BumbleBars decided she was going to change the world through mouth-watering organic food.  The company has remained true to that goal creating organic snack bars that boast ingredients like antioxidant-loaded fruits and heart-healthy nuts and are very minimally processed.

The folks at BumbleBar also care a great deal about doing the right thing for people and the planet! They focus on using business as a tool for positive social change. Through their sourcing program, they work with small farmers to achieve organic and sustainable production, and support their communities by paying fair market prices and funding community projects.  By buying organic ingredients from farmers around the world, their commitment to ethical sourcing contributes to healthier environments for our farmers and their children. The organic ingredients used in our products also help keep water supplies clean, the earth fertile and the biosphere free of pesticides!

I am honored to recommend BumbleBars – not only are the products mouth-wateringly wonderful, the company is a role model that proves business and social responsibilities are not mutually exclusive!

 

 

For ten thousand years the Yu’pik people have lived off the wild salmon in a remote area of Alaska by the Yukon River.  The salmon in this area must navigate up to 2,000 miles of cold, pristine water, swimming against powerful currents from the mouth of the river and as a result, store up more oil rich Omega 3s than any other salmon in order to sustain the grueling journey.

Thanks to folks at Kwik’pak Fisheries, we can enjoy this amazingly rich, delicious and nutritious salmon from this remote area without having to travel to the wilds of Alaska.

Dedicated to sustainable harvesting of this wild salmon, Kwik’pak Fisheries is certified sustainable by Marine Stewardship Council and Global Trust.  They even have a really cool feature on their website which enables customers to know they are buying authentic Yukon River Salmon as all their products are traceable using the Trace Register system.

My husband is quite the salmon fisherman himself and to be honest, we have become a little spoiled; he would go on his yearly fishing trip, bring home tons of salmon that he would smoke himself for us to enjoy throughout the year.  As wonderful as his salmon is, I must say that Kwik’pak Fisheries cold smoked salmon is even better!  (Shh, don’t tell my hubby that I said that!)  With no preservatives and only natural ingredients, the salmon is preserved in the same manner as has been done for generations of Yu’pik Eskimos.

The Smoked Yukon River Keta from Kwik’pak Fisheries are versatile and easy to use in a number of recipes. Of course they are wonderful on gluten free crackers with a bit of cream cheese and onions but they are also delicious on salads or in chowders or added to your favorite dips.

Look for Smoked Yukon River Keta from Kwik’pak Fisheries in your local retailers or go to their website.  In fact, you should go to their website anyway to learn the whole fascinating story of this unique and wonderful product!

 

Let’s face it; snacks are a pretty essential part of watching a movie or a ball game on television.  At least to me.  But let’s also face it – most snacks are so calorie laden that you end up consuming a whole day’s worth of calories in just a couple hours.  This is bad news.  But I do have some good news for you.

Chee Cha Puffs are a delicious, healthy, low calorie snack that has just 92 calories in 2 cups!  That’s right – just 92 calories!  And they now have 5 gluten free varieties!

Chee Cha Puffs start life as potato flour and starch, they are then hot-air puffed to give them a light and delightful crunch, lightly misted with sunflower oil and flavored.  The 5 gluten free flavors are Original, Sea Salt and Spiced Pepper, Sea Salt and Vinegar, Luscious Lime, and Fiesta Salsa.  So GOOD!

These tasty puffs are not just gluten free and low calorie, they are also Natural with no ingredients you won’t recognize or be unable to pronounce, they have no trans-fats, MSG, or GMO’s.

One of the things I know about weight management is that we need to watch our calories without being deprived.  Deprivation leads to straying, which often leads to unwanted calories.  There is no way you will feel deprived munching on the crispy treats.

Created by Elaine Cadrin, these healthy, low cal snacks were inspired one of her favorites, a snack called “Cheecherone” she had enjoyed while traveling in Mexico.  Elaine discovered that these traditionally fat and calorie laden fried treats could be just as tasty if they were puffed with hot air instead of fried.  She got herself 6 hot air popcorn poppers and started selling Chee Cha Puffs at a local farmer’s market.  Demand grew and so did Elaine’s company.  Now Chee Cha Puffs are available at fine retailers all over Canada.

 

I understand that gluten free baking can be puzzling and often frustrating.  Since there is no single gluten free flour that will replace all purpose wheat flour, there are so many choices to make, so much mixing and experimenting and sadly, after all that work, the results are not always stellar.

Fortunately Domata Gluten Free Baking have taken the frustrating guess work out of gluten free baking; they have created a gluten free flour that can be used cup for cup as you would regular, all-purpose wheat flour.  Everything is in there, no need to add xanthan gum – just measure and use!

They also make a seasoned flour which is fabulous for coating chicken, fish and vegetables – it adds just the right amount of kick that turns ordinary into extraordinary!

Who doesn’t love pizza?  Domata makes a pizza crust mix that you simply mix with water;  no waiting for dough to rise! Add your favorite toppings and in less time than delivery, you have a delicious, piping hot fresh pizza right from your very own kitchen!

All of Domata’s products are made in a dedicated gluten and nut free manufacturing facility. They are Celiac Sprue Association Seal certified and OU Kosher certified. Their manufacturing facility has even received a “Superior” rating from the American Institute of Baking. All of Domata’s products are made with all natural ingredients – nothing artificial.

The owners of Domata, David and Julie Madison, believe that life is hard enough, baking gluten free shouldn’t be and they have done something about it!

Find Domata flours at selected stores and on line at Amazon, Gluten Free Store and Free From Gluten.

 

 

Condiments and sauces can be the difference between good food and great food. They can be what transform cooked meat into barbecue. They can make every day steak and chicken sing.

And yet condiments and sauces can be the bane of the existence for those on a gluten free diet; it is not always clearly marked on the label if they are gluten free or not, they often contain ingredients we can’t pronounce much less know what they are and even if the ingredients look OK, how do we know the products have not been cross contaminated with gluten ingredients?

Finding truly great gluten free condiments and sauces is a passion of mine. I have been accused of having a fridge full of condiment, but I have never been accused of serving so-so food! Just saying.

I am really excited to tell you about Rufus Teague barbeque and meat sauces and dry rub. All of Rufus Teague’s products are gluten free (and they say so right on the label!) and are made with natural ingredients and contain no MSG!

Rufus Teague has a line of barbecue sauces that will please any palate – Honey Sweet, Touch of Sweet and Blazing Hot. To quote Rufus “good sauce makes bad barbeque good and good barbeque gooder”. And boy does Rufus make good sauce!

I am seriously in love with Rufus’ meat sauce – it is everything a great steak sauce should be – complex, tangy and savory with just the slightest hint of sweet to balance everything out. His spicy meat sauce makes me drool! I keep looking for new ways to use it, of course it is great on steak but I love it on simply broiled chicken breast, added to my chili to give it a little something special and even stirred into cheese sauce.

As well as being a condiment friend, I am also a bit of a bottle saver – what can I say? I am a sucker for a really cool jar or bottle. Rufus’ sauces come in these super cool flask-like bottles definitely worth saving. While I would never (or almost never) buy something because of the bottle it comes in, it sure doesn’t hurt!

If you are looking for a way to add incredible flavor to your meals, seriously, you must try Rufus Teague sauces and rubs. You can go to their website and order a bottle, a 3 pack, a 6 pack, a gallon or a case. I would go for the case because it is really that good!

 

 

 

Looking for the perfect way to start your day?  How about starting it with some of the world’s oldest and most perfect foods for humans?

Holy Crap (gotta love that name!) and Skinny B Cereals are chuck full of perfect foods – super foods like chia, hemp and buckwheat.  Foods that fill you up and fuel you up for whatever your day will bring.

Did you know that chia was more valuable than gold to the Aztecs?  The Tarahumara people of Mexico were great warriors and are renowned for their long distance running ability.  Guess what super food they have eaten for ages to fuel the bodies of their warriors and athletes alike?  Yep, chia!

The serving size of both Holy Crap and Skinny B is 2 tablespoons.  This gave me some serious pause.  I mean I cannot think of a single thing that would fill me up with just 2 tablespoons!  So needless to say, I was skeptical.  However, when you soak the cereal in water (or almond milk or…) it swells up to a much larger volume and it fills you up for HOURS!  You heard me right – 2 tablespoons fills you up for hours!  AND it is delicious!  And there are only 130 calories in a serving!  Delicious, nutritious, fills you up for hours and only 130 calories?  Does it get more perfect than that?

If you need to maintain your energy and blood sugar levels or are just looking for a super nutritious way to start you day, you really must try Holy Crap and Skinny B cereals.  Holy Crap has dried organic cranberries, raisins, bits of apple and cinnamon added to the basic cereal mixture of Skinny B.

Of course both cereals are gluten free but they are also dairy free, kosher, vegan, salt free, sugar free, organic, nut free and raw.  I am having a difficult time thinking of a diet these cereals would not fit.

I can’t promise you that your whole day will go perfectly but I can recommend the perfect way to start it- Holy Crap and Skinny B cereals!

 

Nothing says special occasion like champagne and caviar!  If you are vegan, the champagne may not be a problem but alas, the caviar is forbidden.  At least it was until Plant Based Foods created Cavi-Art.

Cavi-Art is a delicacy made of seaweed which looks and tastes like caviar!  Cavi-Art comes in the traditional flavors of caviar; Red, Black, Yellow, Orange and Salmon Roe but it also comes in some wilder flavors such as Wasabi, Ginger, Balsamico and Chili.

I am not exactly sure about the sustainability of fish eggs, but seaweed is very sustainable.  In fact less than 5% percent of the seaweed that grows is harvested, making it an environmentally sound choice even for luxuries.

I must admit I was a little skeptical about plant based “caviar”.  How would it taste?  It is not often I am in the mood to celebrate and say “bring me some seaweed please”.  This stuff is GOOD.  I mean really, really GOOD!  It is definitely a celebration-worthy food.

Cavi-Art is not just for vegans; being made with seaweed means that it is cholesterol free and has less salt and fat than regular caviar.  It also has about a tenth of the calories of lumpfish caviar!  It is free of all major allergens, has only natural coloring and preservatives and it is a whole lot more budget friendly than its fishy counterpart.

As a person who likes to entertain I appreciate the fact that Cavi-Art does not discolor food the way regular caviar does, I can decorate and garnish hors d’oeuvres with it way in advance and they look as pretty as when first done.

And guess what?  Even after opening a jar of Cavi-Art, it does not require refrigeration!  This means you can eat in style even when you go camping.

Great price point, healthy, environmentally friendly – everything about this product is special, especially the taste.  This is a food product that will surely make any occasion special!  You can get it HERE.

 

If you have ever had the pleasure of eating Bubbies ice cream treats in Hawaii you know how special they are.  In March of 1985 Keith Robbins opened his first ice cream parlor in Honolulu, producing the highest quality ice cream from natural ingredients in an amazing assortment of flavors including some that came from Hawaii’s local exotic fruits. Word of his incredible ice cream spread and soon orders were flooding in from establishments all over the island state.

If it wasn’t enough that Bubbies makes ice cream with exceptional texture and taste, they also produce one of the most delicious frozen treats I have had the pleasure of experiencing – Mochi Ice Cream.  Mochi is sweetened rice flour that is steamed.   Using specialized equipment the mochi is wrapped around Bubbies’ super premium ice cream and the result – pure heaven!  Bubbies refers to them as “Great Balls of Happiness”, I call them “Genius!”

Bubbies mochi ice cream comes in 20 flavors and I have tried almost every one.  I am a little embarrassed to admit that I did all this wonderful taste testing in the space of 1 week – the only reason I haven’t tasted every single flavor is that my hubby found where I stashed them and helped himself to a few!

Fortunately for us we do not have to wait until our next trip to Hawaii to experience these wonderful frozen treats, Bubbies can ship a variety of flavors right to your door- you can have a taste of paradise wherever you are!

With such wonderful flavor as Raspberry White Chocolate (raspberry mochi wrapped around white chocolate ice cream), Chocolate Espresso (chocolate mochi and espresso ice cream), Mango, Lychee and Passion Fruit, it is really hard to pick a favorite although Green Tea is their most popular.  Personally I don’t think I could ever get enough of the Azuki Bean –it reminds me of another Hawaiian treat – shaved ice with azuki bean paste at the bottom.

Bubbies is named after the woman who first introduced Keith to ice cream – his grandmother.   You gotta love a guy who loves and respects his grandma!

To get these wonderful mochi balls (and a true taste of paradise) go to their website and order some.

Sauces are a whole lot like kids. They’re all different and have their own story. Lizbeth Lane has one to tell too – and it’s delicious!

Two neighbors, Rid Francisco and Michael Dernoga banded together, with the 50+ years of work experience between them, to start Lizbeth Lane. They ended up creating some of the most exquisite sauces on the planet!

Their Simmer Sauces are don’t-click-your-heels-together-three-times-stay-in-heaven good! The absolutely unique tastes immediately take a comfortable place in your heart and will soon become a staple in your pantry. The sauces have a subtle richness, that won’t overload your taste buds; instead it has the perfect amount of power for your buds to taste every delectable flavor.

The Simmer Sauce line, which includes Lemon Piccata, Roasted Red Pepper, Marsala & Tarragon and Mediterranean Tomato, creates the perfect mood and balance to make any regular recipe into an extraordinary gourmet meal. You’ll have time to cook a delightful dinner and clean the kitchen afterwards (or better yet, cook a luxurious dinner using Lizbeth Lane’s Simmer Sauce and have him clean the kitchen!)

And if you are looking for a way to jazz up gluten free pizza, check out their pizza sauces which have such imaginative flavors as Roasted Vegetables, Tomato Cilantro, Tomato, Pepper & Basil and Peanut Orange. In fact their gluten free pizza sauces are so innovative they topped the list as “one of 10 innovative new food items” by Specialty Food News.

Besides the beauty of the company’s dedication to ingredients, fairness and gluten free goodness – Lizbeth Lane also has a beautiful heart. They ship their products using Hani-Crafters, a non-profit organization that gives jobs to people with disabilities. Lizbeth Lane strives to do well at every turn of the corner – and do they!

If you want to make truly great tomato sauce, you need to start with truly great tomatoes. If you want to have truly great tomato sauce without having to actually make it, you need to get Chef Jon Molnar’s Italian sauces.

Every tomato that goes into Chef Jon’s Bolognese and Pizza and Pasta Sauce is grown in the rich fertile fields of the Tuscan region of Italy. With these world renowned tomatoes and Chef Jon’s authentic Tuscan recipes, this is jarred pasta sauce that tastes homemade! Personally I love a good, traditional Bolognese sauce but it takes hours to properly prepare it, and seriously, who has the time?

When I discovered Chef Jon Molnar’s pasta and pizza sauce I knew I was in Tuscan heaven. The aroma of Tuscany’s prized tomatoes, spices and herbs fill my kitchen when first cooking with Molnar’s Bolognese. And very soon – sooner than supper was ready – everyone in my house was running right to the kitchen!

Chef Jon’s love and enthusiasm for cooking is in his genes, he was guided from an early age by his grandmother how to cook with passion and imbue his food with love. Fortunately for those of us without grandmas to tutor us in the culinary ways of the old world, we can just open a jar!

Using a jar of Chef Jon’s Pasta & Pizza Sauce you can whip up an excellent Tuscan Braised Chicken that will leave everyone with the long lasting impression that you must have been an Italian 5-star chef in another life! Just smile and accept the compliments – I won’t tell if you don’t!

Chef Jon Molnar’s products are all natural, have no preservatives, are produced in a green facility and are gluten free. These sauces practically grow straight out of the ground!

Look for Chef Jon’s sauces in all Giant Eagle and Fisher Foods locations and soon, very soon I hope, they will be available online.

 

 

 

You gotta love a gal with sass and Sauce Goddess has sass to spare! Sauce Goddess makes some pretty sassy barbecue sauces, grill glazes, spice rubs and killer caramel corn.

Sauce Goddess is the labor of love created by Jennifer, a woman passionate about making, eating and sharing great food. The original sauce recipe was actually one her father had made for her ever since she could remember. She finally pinned him down, got him to measure ingredients and started making his sauce. Her friends raved and a dream was born. With the help of her friends and family (and a good deal of Jennifer’s own sass) the company was started, hit the ground running and hasn’t looked back since.

The obvious reason for the success of Sauce Goddess is the quality of the products they make and the fact that they are just plain delicious! Their sauces, all of which are now gluten free, include the award winning Sweet & Spicy Grill Glaze – sneaky sweet heat, Sticky Sweet Grill Glaze – mild and sweet, Big & Tangy Sauce – black pepper and apple cider vinegar being responsible for the tang and my personal favorite (and the sassiest of all!) Sweet Red Devil Sauce – nice and sweet and really hot, just like I like it. The sauces are made with quality ingredients and are free of MSG, wheat, dairy, and eggs.

The spice rubs include the Original Super Chunk (all-purpose) Spice Rub which is awesome on steak, chicken and even veggies, Moroccan Twist Spice Rub which is amazing on lamb, pork, salmon, grilled apples and pears and really livens up lentils and rice, Latin Heat Spice Rub, fab for making fajitas and BBQ Sweet Heat Spice Rub, without which no respectable rib should be caught!

And then there is the Caramel Corn – sweet, salty snacks mixed with their spice rubs. Be warned though – these are positively ADDICTIVE!

All of their sauces, spices and caramel corn are gluten free. The spice rubs are free of wheat but are made in a facility that uses wheat in other products. They have however adopted a swabbing and testing procedure by an independent lab. It allows them to confidently offer their items to people with Celiac disease

So if you are look to add a little sass to your cooking, check out Sauce Goddess – you won’t be disappointed!

 

 

 

Sahale Snacks are causing a bit of trouble in my house. They are so good that they tend to get devoured much too quickly. Thus my husband has taken to stashing away bags of these amazing nut blends in hiding places that I don’t know so that he can have them all to himself. Yes, my normally generous, giving husband has turned into a snack hoarder! I can’t say that I blame him; I blame Sahale Snacks for making such an amazing, downright addictive line of snacks.

It all started in August of 2003 when two friends, Josh and Edmond, climbed Mount Rainier in Washington State. The views were spectacular but their snacks were anything but. So off to the kitchen they went and set about creating a line of seriously sensational line of snacks that start off with whole, natural ingredients such as cashews, almonds, and pecans which they combine with naturally dried, un-sulphured and preservative-free fruits then add intoxicating and exotic flavorings such as organic orange blossom honey, lemongrass, balsamic vinegar, Moroccan harissa or pure ground Madagascar vanilla beans. The results are just as spectacular and adventurous as a mountain climb.

One of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to mixed nuts is that most companies add gluten to them when there is absolutely no reason. Sahale Snacks is committed to gluten free and their products are also certified Kosher.

Sahale Snacks offers a wide variety of nut blends, including Cashews with Pomegranate, Tuscan Almonds and the new Sahale Crunchers almond snacks line. I LOVE all three flavors: Almonds with Cherries, Apples & Maple, Almonds with Cranberries, Sesame Seeds & Honey, and Almonds with Parmesan Cheese & Herbs. They can be eaten by themselves or used in salads, sprinkled into yogurt or cereal and as a naturally gluten free coating for fish and chicken.

While I love all the Crunchers, my personal favorite is called Cherries, Apple & Maple– it is a combo of almonds, apples, cherries and maple – everything I want in a snack in one convenient package!

If you have yet to try Sahale Snacks (at Whole Foods, REI, Amazon, and at the Sahale website), I urge you to hurry up but be warned; they may cause a little dissension in your home too. So buy more than you think you need and you may just want to take a note from my hubby’s page – stash away a bag or two of your favorites in some secret place so they will be there when you want them!

 

 

 

When I first eyed Sam Mills Gluten Free Corn Pasta, I was skeptical. Years ago I had tried corn pasta and to be honest, I hated it. I was also concerned about GMOs and thought that would be a good reason not to risk having to eat something I might not like. But then I read the packaging and noticed that their pastas are all GMO free and 100% natural. So I tried it and guess what? I liked it. Actually, I didn’t like it, I loved it!

Sam Mills’ Pasta d’oro corn pastas are wheat, gluten, dairy, egg, sugar, yeast soy, nut, sodium and cholesterol free, low in fat, have a low glycemic index and best of all they taste GREAT and remain firm unlike rice pasta which takes some babying to keep from becoming mushy.

My father has never embraced gluten free pasta so I served him some the other day to get a gluten eater’s opinion. I “forgot” to mention the pasta was gluten free and he could not stop thanking me for finally serving him some “regular” pasta. (Let’s just keep that fact that this pasta is gluten free from him, if you don’t mind.)

Sam Mills’ Pasta d’oro corn pastas come in a variety of shapes not usually available in gluten free pasta including Bucatini, Conchiliette, and Lasgne Corte. Of course they also make the regulars such as Spaghetti, Fettucinni, Penne, and Elbows; in fact they make 11 varieties of pasta shapes! They even have a couple kid pastas; alphabet and duck shapes. No longer are we stuck with making do with two or three pasta shapes!

If, like me, you have been feeling limited in your gluten free pasta choices, you will be happy to discover Sam Mills Pasta d’oro corn pastas which are now available all over the country. I think you will love this quick cooking, fuss-free, pasta that truly can be cooked al dente, just like pasta should be!

Sam Mills also produces gluten free corn meal, polenta and corn grits as well as extra virgin, GMP free, unrefined corn oil and a line of pasta sauces. I am so pleased to be able to introduce you to these quality products!

 

There are so many things I like about To Market To Market (yep! That’s the name – from the fairy tale rhyme!) that I barely know where to start. But I suppose it is only logical to begin with the products they produce.

To Market To Market makes a line of herb and spice dip mixes that can be used for so much more than just dips. All of their products are gluten free, Kosher Certified and as of now, salt free. They contain no MSG and no chemicals; just great tasting, lovingly combined herbs and spices that will turn you into a entertainment rock star!

While the products are all called dip mixes, they can be used for so much more. The fabulous flavor combos are also great for seasoning meats as they roast or cook in the crock pot, stirred into soups and stews, tossed with pasta, added to jams and preserves and for spicing up seafood on the grill.

It is hard for me to pick a favorite from the 27 different varieties of dip blends but so far I am loving the Garlic of Eatin’ and It’s Greek To Me. Which brings me to another thing I love about this company, all the products have tongue in check, catchy names – gotta love a company with a sense of humor.

The owners of this company, Kent and Eileen, are passionate about producing the highest quality, freshest, and tastiest dip blends around. In fact they are so passionate about it that Eileen insisted on buying this 25 year old company several years ago after having used To Market To Market products in her successful gift basket business for years. When people are passionate about what they do, it shows!

Most pre-packaged dip mixes contain just enough product for a cup or two of dip but not To Market To Market, their little packets make between 4 – 10 cups of dip! That’s more than anyone else and a lot of party bang for your buck! The fact that their packets contain more product than packaging means you are paying for dip mix, not packaging. It also means they are socially responsible, by not over packaging, they are reducing the use of disposable packing products. Owner Kent likes to say they are really in the “entertainment business”, not the food business and they will make your parties bigger and better! How much do we love that?

Visit their website to see that array of dip mixes and to get special savings discount coupons. Just another thing I love about this company – great quality products at a savings!

Who doesn’t love chips and salsa? Or chips and guacamole? Or chips and bean dip? Or chips and…

Well, certainly not me – I love my chips! And I am so happy to introduce you to a line of chips that not only taste amazing but that you can feel really good about eating and serving – RW Garcia.

All of RW Garcia’s chips and crackers are gluten free (and it says so clearly, and plainly on the FRONT of the packing in BIG letters!) and they make them from the highest quality, all natural ingredients including organic, non-GMO, stone-ground corn and preservative free seasonings. Their oils contain no trans fats and their spices are non-irradiated and free of artificial ingredients.

With flavors like Sweet & Spicy Thai Tortilla Chips, 3 Seed Curry & Mango Dipping Chips, and Spice Dipping chips flavored with brown flaxseed, black sesame seeds, chia seeds, cracked tellicherry pepper, Himalayan pink salt, and a trace of lime, as well as Yellow and Blue corn Tortilla chips, R.W. Garcia gives you a lot of delicious chip offerings! They also make some really tasty gluten free crackers including a 5 Seed Onion and Chive, a 5 Seed Rosemary and Garlic and a 5 Seed Tellicherry Black Pepper for when a cracker is a better snacking option than a chip.

This company is so committed to producing a healthier snack food; they are leading the industry with their firm stand on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). RW Garcia is currently an Official Participant in the Non-GMO Project’s Product Verification Program, taking responsibility for not only their products they produce but for their whole industry. They are also leaders in sustainability and committed to giving back to the community with their wide range of charitable contributions.

It always gives me great pleasure to introduce you to products that I really love. It gives me even more pleasure to introduce you to a company that is ethical, responsible and committed to excellence.

I hope that you will love these chips and crackers as much as I do – finally I have found a chip that is more than just a vehicle for salsa or dip. I have found a chip that is worthy of eating all on its own, and that is saying a lot!

 

If you read my blog at all, you know I am a serial snacker! Yes, I eat regular meals, but I dearly love my snacks. I am just not one of those people who can eat only three times a day!

The only problem with my snacking habit is it is a really good way to ingest a whole lot of empty, useless calories. That’s why I needed to look for a way better snack – and I found one! Way Better Snacks makes a line of healthy, wholesome chips that are anything but empty, useless calories. Yep, you heard me right – chips that are actually GOOD for you!!!

Way Better Snacks starts their chips with whole grains and sprouted seeds and then they add flavor – lots and lots of flavor! Seriously, how cool is it to be able to munch on chips while cuddled up on the couch watching a movie and not have to feel guilty about it? (Don’t tell anyone but I even sneaked these into the movie theater – healthier, no trans fats and way better tasting than movie house popcorn!)

All the ingredients in Way Better Chips are natural and wholesome, no fillers, no preservatives or trans fats – they are gluten, dairy and GMO free, vegan, certified Kosher and most all – THEY TASTE AMAZING!!!

What makes these chips a healthier snack lies in sprouting – sprouting unlocks all the “good” that is inherent in all grains, seed and beans and brings them back to life (nutritionally speaking) which means when we eat them we are eating a more nutritionally dense final product. In essence, Way Better Snack unlocks the secret goodness in food and puts it all in a chip.

I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite between the Blue Corn, Multi-Grain, Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Sweet Chili Chips but if I had to, I would pick the Sweet Chili. Or maybe the Black Bean. No, definitely the Sweet Potato …Oh please! Don’t make me pick!

If you are looking for a way better snack – I can most wholeheartedly recommend Way Better Snacks – wholesome, nutritious and delicious. What more do you want in a snack? They are available in store all over America – enjoy!

 

Not very many companies can measure up to Eli’s Earth Bars. They have quickly become one of my absolute favorites! Eli’s as a company, is extremely ethical and equally kind.

Their chocolate bars are ridiculously delicious! The three flavors are – Big Dream Bar; chewy caramel topped with peanut butter and roasted peanuts coated with creamy chocolate, Treasure Bar; peanut butter crunch topped with caramel and coated in creamy chocolate and the Celebrate Bar; chewy coconut caramel topped with roasted almonds and coated with creamy chocolate.

Of course all of Eli’s Earth Bars are gluten free and they are dairy free and vegan too! Also, Eli’s is organic – so no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

The creation of Eli’s Earth Bars is the result of a long standing dream of the owners of Sjaak’s Organic Chocolates , named for their grandson Eli, they wanted to create candy bars that not only taste amazing but that stands for something. They wanted to create candy (and a company) that embraces what every childhood should – joy, delight and peace. And they have! Eli’s Earth Bars is an independent, family owned company that donates 5% of every sale to a non-profit charity that benefits children. Eli’s is also Fair Trade Certified, which means that no child or slave labor was involved in making these products.

How fabulous is it to be able to enjoy an amazing chocolate bar and know that at the same time you are helping to make this world a better place? Enjoy!

 

Sometimes the road to good health is confusing, frustrating and fraught with pitfalls. When I first fully committed to a gluten free diet and lifestyle, I found myself not getting completely well despite all my best efforts. Low and behold, I discovered that there was gluten in my vitamins! Seriously! Every day I was doing all I could to improve my health and every day I was inadvertently ingesting a little bit of poison.

That is why I am so honored to introduce you to Wellesse. This company really gets it! Wellesse makes a line of premium liquid supplements that are 100 percent gluten free. But that’s not all. Many of their products are sugar free as well and the very fact that they are liquid instead of in a pill form means they absorb into the body much more efficiently. The body does not have to breakdown the supplements first so they get into the body fast and effortlessly.

For those of us with Celiac Disease or Gluten Sensitivity we know that absorbing nutrients can be a problem. Our small intestines may be damaged and for those new to a gluten free diet, many are malnutritioned despite eating well. Wellesse offers a wide variety of supplements including ones that we gluten sensitive most need such as Calcium/Magnesium, Vitamin D3, Digestive Health and B-Complex.

If you have tried liquid supplements in the past and found them completely unpalatable, no worries here – every one of their products I have tried are delicious! I mean it doesn’t matter how good something for you is, if you won’t ingest it, it is not going to help! These taste GREAT!

As I said, when it comes to gluten sensitivity and vitamin supplementation, this company really gets it! I urge you to check out their line of products and see for yourself. Their products are available at Costco, Sam’s Club, Walmart, Amazon.com, alice.com and many other places including on their own website HERE.

 

 

The motto at HomeFree is “Treats You Can Trust” and boy, can you! They make cookies, coffee cake and baking ingredients all from the heart! The cookies are gluten free, peanut free, tree nut free, egg free, dairy free and absolutely yummy! My personal favorite is the Mini Crunchy Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookie. It adds that extra crunch without taking away the chocolate goodness!

You get the box, tear open the bag and are immediately engulfed by the delicious aroma. Once you take a bite you’ll see how they practically melt in your mouth. It’s just the right amount of sweetness – so no need for guilty feelings! You can throw some in the kids lunch boxes or save them for when they get home. They’re great for quick snacks, especially if you’re craving for something sweet.

Jill Robbins, the founder of HomeFree wanted to help children with food allergies and sensitivities – because after all, everyone wants to have their cookie and eat them too! She started HomeFree so kids and adults can have heavenly tasting cookies and cakes! It’s no wonder that this dedicated company is so amazing – all the products come from the heart! Check it out HERE.

 

 

 

I am going to admit that when I first looked at a bag of Conte’s frozen gluten free Ravioli I was skeptical. After all I try to stay on top of what’s out there when it comes to gluten free foods, to be honest I have not had a frozen gluten free pasta item that was great. I tried a few that were OK and a lot that were terrible but never one that was something I would eat on any kind of regular basis. But then along came Conte’s.

The only thing I like better than their Ravioli is their Pierogi! Tender but not mushy, dough stuffed with onions, potatoes and even a cheese variety, these babies are to die for! But you needn’t take my word for it. My husband’s mother was a little Polish woman who made everything from scratch. My husband grew up with a wide variety of delicious Polish foods all lovingly prepared and he was more skeptical than I when it came to tasting the Pierogi, after all he grew up with “real Pierogi”. Needless to say, he was just as impressed as I.

Conte has a whole line of delicious gluten free frozen products such as Stuffed Shells, Lasagna, Gnocchi, several varieties of Ravioli and of course their incredible Pierogi. They are convenient, fast and wholesome. And a seriously easy way to get dinner on the table fast! When you need to get dinner on the table with even more ease, they even have a line of gluten free frozen microwave meals that include Cheese Lasagna, Cheese Ravioli with marinara sauce, Gnocchi with marinara sauce, and Cheese Ravioli with marinara sauce.

Conte has a 28,000 square foot, dedicated gluten free facility for producing all their gluten free products so we can be assured that their products are safe.

So far every product I have tried I have loved! And I have tried almost ALL of them. The very best part of what I do is when I get to taste really great gluten free products and tell you about them. I know, it is hard work but someone has to do it! You’re welcome. Go see them HERE.

 

 

Oh, I just love my job when I get to tell about a TOTALLY SUPERIOR product!

Anyone who is gluten free and has a busy lifestyle knows this to be true: it is not easy to keep to a gluten free diet when you are running around town doing errands or in an airport or at work! Sure there are plenty of places to grab something to eat but the vast majority of them are loaded with gluten-filled items and even those that offer food that should be gluten free are suspect due to cross contamination. When we are hungry and tired we are more likely to let our guard down and let gluten into our lives – big mistake!

For this very reason I always carry a few bags of Crunchies Freeze Dried Snacks with me when I am on the go. I like to know I can have a delicious, gluten free snack that is healthy whenever I want.

They also make a fantastic lunch box addition for the kids and husband!

Crunchies are nothing but fruit or vegetables – and I mean nothing else! And they tasting fantastic – just as you would expect natural fruit and vegetables to taste!!

No preservatives, added sugar, and trans fats. They start with the freshest fruits and veggies (all non-GMO, Kosher Certified, no added sugar or preservatives) and then freeze dry the produce and fruits with a space-age technology (that was actually developed for NASA) preserving all the goodness of the fruits or vegetables (keeping the nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants intact) so that when you bite into them they have this really great crunch. So much better for you than a bag of high calorie chips! These are less than 100 calories/serving. And approved by Weight Watchers!

But I don’t just keep Chrunchies on hand for traveling; I stock my pantry with them for quick snacks at home and for using in recipes. When fresh blueberries are not (or even when they are) in season, I can use Crunchies freeze dried blueberries and still have delicious gluten free blueberry muffins! How great is that?

With their great variety of freeze dried snacks – 10 fruits and 12 veggies – which include pineapple (my personal favorite!), strawberries, cinnamon apples, peas and more, I am sure you will find plenty of items you will fall in love with! They even have a line of organic items as well.

I think that Jim Lacey, President and CEO of Crunchies put it best when he said, “You can’t improve on nature, but you can freshly package what nature has given us and make it readily accessible to people wherever they may be.”

If you have yet to try Crunchies, I urge you to do so now! You can find Crunchies almost everywhere including Whole Foods, Safeway, Ralphs, Target and Wegmans among others.

Happy healthy, gluten free snacking! Check it out HERE – buy from their website or get some in the store next time. I HIGHLY recommend Crunchies!

 

 

I cannot believe that it took me this long to try Chebe products. What was I thinking? Chebe makes a variety of naturally gluten free bread mixes and frozen doughs that are so simple to prepare!

Chebe product’s roots are in Brazil – the original Cheese Bread was inspired by a unique Brazilian bread called “pao de queijo”. It’s served literally everywhere you go in Brazil. People sell it on the streets. You can buy it in grocery stores. And fine restaurants serve it daily. And it happens to be both delicious and naturally gluten free!

Ironically the founders of Chebe didn’t really intend on producing a “gluten free product” per se, but the outpouring of love from the gluten intolerant for this naturally gluten free product proved differently. How refreshing to be able to buy a gluten free bread product with no weird aftertastes or textures!

All of Chebe’s products are certified gluten free. I think you will agree that their unique taste and ease of preparation earn them a place in your gluten free pantry.

Their dry mixes include the original cheese bread, an all-purpose bread mix, pizza crust mix, garlic onion bread stick mix, focaccia mix and even a cinnamon roll mix! And for those who like things even easier than mixing a few ingredients in a bowl, they even make a line of frozen doughs that include tomato basil bread sticks and ciabatta rolls.

All major yummy and major simple to prepare!

I have a pantry the size of a broom closet so everything that goes in there needs to EARN its place – Chebe products have earned their place for sure in my pantry! Check them out HERE.

 

Nature’s Yolk eggs are by far the best eggs I have ever eaten or baked with (that’s a huge statement!) – my baked goods are so much richer and more flavorful than with conventional eggs!

Rarely do I get to recommend a food so vital to our good health.

Eggs are one of the least expensive, most complete and readily available sources of protein around. They are convenient, nutritious and delicious. But did you know that not all eggs are “created” equally? They used be, back before the raising of eggs was commercialized, people had hens in the yard – they roamed and nibbled and laid eggs for the family. But not so anymore.

Nature’s Yoke has truly brought back eggs as they should be – nutritious and delicious – and responsibly raised!

I am proud beyond words to HIGHLY RECOMMEND them! They are available at responsible retailers.

Please, for the sake of yours and your families health, continue to read here….

 

 

If you ask me what my favorite nut is, I can answer without even having to think about it – Pistachios! There are a lot of reasons to love pistachios, they are heart-healthy, antioxidant powerhouses, packed with vitamins and minerals, have as much fiber as a serving of oatmeal, naturally gluten and cholesterol free and have fewer calories than any other nut (which means you can eat more).

But that’s not why I love them so much – I love them because they taste so darn good! After all, no matter how good something is for you, if you don’t eat it, it does no good! And besides which, they just look happy – ever noticed that a pistachio in the shell looks likes it is smiling?

I use pistachios in my gluten free, vegetarian and vegan baking and cooking all the time – it is a fantastic and tasty way to add protein to salads, pilafs, vegetable dishes and baked goods.

One of my all –time favorite tricks is to use ground pistachios as a coating for fish, meat and poultry – it transforms everyday ingredients into a gourmet meal.

I always keep a big bag of pistachios in my pantry so I can grab a healthy snack when feeling a little peckish or am on the go. I also travel with a bag of pistachios – airports and train stations are notoriously difficult for finding something gluten free to eat, so to keep my energy up while traveling, pistachios are the answer!

I will let you in on one of my top secrets when I want to shed a few pounds – I count out a serving of pistachios for a snack, slowly shell each one before eating it and savor every bite – they leave me feeling satisfied and not one bit deprived.

So whether you want to get healthy, cook like a gourmet chef or lose a few pounds, reach for pistachios, you won’t be sorry!

 

 

The slogan for Tillen Farms is “pickled to perfection” and I have to say I agree. Their pickled vegetables, which include asparagus, beans, peppers and carrots, are crispy, gorgeous and packed with flavor. It seems that each vegetable is picked at the exact moment it has achieved the perfect degree of ripeness and then pickled in a way that somehow gives them a great pickled flavor while still retaining the integrity of the vegetable. And did I mention that they are crispy? Seriously? How do they do that? (Secret: When I pressed the owner, I got, “We can’t reveal all our trade secrets but unlike most competitors, we don’t “cook” our products in the jar and we use a “fresh pack” processing method that retains the veggies flavor and crispness.”) It sure works!

The pickled veggies make unique garnishes for cocktails – instead of the typical celery stick in a Bloody Mary, how about a Crispy Asparagus spear or two? Want a new twist on the Dirty Martini? After polishing off a jar of Hot and Spicy Pickled Crispy Beans, save the juice for shaking in with your cocktail – fabulous!

The pickled vegetables are a welcome addition to any antipasto platter and make unique stir-ins that will update classic salads such as potato and gluten free pasta. Tillen Farms also bottles up some of the best sun dried tomatoes you have ever tried.

Their newest addition is the gorgeous Bada Bing Cherries – huge, rich, ripe, Bing Cherries harvested from the Pacific Northwest at the peak of freshness and available all year long thanks to Tillen Farms. Tillen Farms makes Merry Maraschinos – beautiful cherries made without red dye or high fructose corn syrup.

I can highly recommend the products from Tillen Farms – they start with raw ingredients of the highest quality, processed without the use of gluten, sulfites, preservatives, artificial ingredients, corn syrup and dyes. They also happen to be fat and cholesterol free and low calorie foods which makes these delicious snacks just the thing when one wants to maintain a healthy weight or shed a few pounds. Find them in stores every where or order from their website.

 

Hear Yee! Hear Yee! The kids will WANT to eat this meal!! Gluten Free Mac & Cheese – made with Brown Rice Flour!! I had one and it was scrumptious – but more importantly, the g-kids were over, each of them had one then begged for another one AND THEN ATE A THIRD ONE !! THEY LOVED THESE!!!

Also FREE from WHEAT, SOY, EGGS and NUTS – 100% US sourced ingredients – 3 grams fiber per serving – Non-GMO.

And they were INSTANT – into the micro for a few minutes and wha-laa… a meal in a cup!!

Maplegrove Gluten Free Foods also makes a wonderful Gluten Free Potato Pasta fortified with Flax and vitamins and minerals – all in a factory solely dedicated to the production of gluten free pasta!!

Maplegrove Gluten Free Foods are committed to bringing high quality foods to the gluten free marketplace AND they maintain a very strong commitment to environmental stewardship as they conserve energy with the use of solar electricity at their plant. My kind of company!!

 

San-J makes Soy Sauce and Grilling Sauces that are completely gluten free. For years after I went gluten free, I would eat sushi and get a headache. Then one day I discovered that soy sauce has gluten in it. I thought my sushi eating days were over. Then I discovered that the San-J brand of Soy Sauce is gluten free! Oh….a part of life came back to me!! I was so happy – I would take my bottle with me when we went to the sushi houses! San-J SAVED MY LIFE!!

Now the same wonderful company makes a great variety of grilling (barbeque) sauces! Not just some ole dark red hot spicy BBQ sauce – I’m talking classy, wonderfully flavored grilling sauces for every type of meat! An Asian BBQ Sauce, a Sweet & Tangy Sauce, an Orange Sauce, and an awesome Teriyaki Sauce.

ENJOY THE DELICIOUSNESS OF OUTDOOR GRILLING – Use San-J Grilling Sauces – available in the local super markets! I absolutely LOVE them!!

 

Wanta make your own gluten free Bagels, Potato Bread, English Muffins, Crepes and even Hamburger Buns?! I have found Mina’s Purely Divine! Mina (when you see her big smile, you cannot help but fall in love with her!) is making an All Purpose Flour, a Bread Mix and a Chocolate Cake Mix that works wonderfully well in all these applications.

Gluten free, Wheat, Dairy, Barley, Rye, Oat, Soy, Corn, and Egg FREE!

Mina started out as a chef cook at a spiritual resort, and with wheat and grain allergies herself, developed these wonderful mixes that simply taste and bake up like the real thing! As Mina says, “I considered I had succeeded when the recipes I could make with the 3 mixes gave me the same joy as regular products without any adverse reactions.”

I just love it when someone grows her own idea out of the desire to be healthy herself, into a company that provides for others so much good and real help!! I highly recommend Mina’s!! Her mixes are available on her website!

Oh My Goodness! It never ceases to amaze me – I think I have found the most awesome, nutritionally beneficial latest-and-greatest food (quinoa) only to find out there is now a new level of nutritional health being achieved by the next awesome food being introduced into the marketplace – this is SALBA – Nature’s Perfect Whole Food. Salba is a seed (Salvia hispanica) being introduced into the American marketplace by Ancient Naturals from Florida.

The nutritional profile is amazing! 30% more Antioxidants than blueberries, 70% higher Protein than Soybeans, 6 times more Calcium than whole milk, 15 times more Magnesium than broccoli and 3 times more Iron than spinach – add to that it can be ground and used as flour for baking and has impressive Omega-3 numbers and high fiber content, effectively, by a recent study, reducing cardiovascular risk factors for Type 2 diabetics AND is gluten-free – it becomes just crazy!

The companies passion for nutritional excellence is best stated by Founder, Mitch Propster, “At Ancient Naturals, we are passionate about fighting the processed/fast food epidemic by uncovering or rediscovering nutrient-dense, science-based whole foods and offering them at reasonable prices in convenient delivery systems”.

Go to their website or a local Health Food Store to buy it as a whole seed, a ground seed or as an oil!! I may have just turned you on to the most healthful seed (like a grain) that you can buy today – oh…I just love my job!!!>

Sunbutter saves lives! It’s really as direct and simply as that! This substitute for peanut butter is available for kids (and adults) with nut and peanut allergies – some so severe, that just close contact puts them in the hospital. I have a nephew in that category.

This roasted sunflower seed spread is simply ingenious and tastes awesome in a Sunbutter and Jelly Sandwich! I use this all the time in cooking applications instead of nuts. It comes in both a Creamy and a Crunchy texture and makes wonderful “peanut butter” cookies!! Contains lots of Vitamin E and is a great source of Protein!

I cannot recommend Sunbutter highly enough! The people in the company – all the way to the top, are simply great people with a strong sense of responsibility to ensure a nut-free safe product that tastes so yummy!!!

Whether it’s Summer barbecue season, Spring or Fall, or in the middle of Winter, there are few dishes as satisfying as a good bowl of beans. It’s one of those dishes that I sometimes just crave. How about beans packages with the seasonings all together – ready to make the house smell awesome as they cook! Pre-mixed foods in today’s world of additives and preservatives, makes it really difficult to know you are eating gluten free when spices are added to a product as the spices can be contaminated or simply have un-labeled wheat in them. It’s one of my pet-peeves!

Well….rest assured, I can now fully recommend a dried bean company, Hurst Family Harvest, that makes absolutely the most wonderful bean mixes – all naturally seasoned – all ready to go – just put in the pot and shortly thereafter, enjoy the best of the best!

Since 1938 (YES!, that is not a typo) the Hurst family, now in its 4th generation has supplied America with the highest quality beans. All natural seasonings and NO artificial ingredients or preservatives!! Contains complex carbs and protein, is low in fat and cholesterol-free, an excellent source of fiber and full of zinc, iron and folates and as a side note, the American Institute for Cancer Research says that bean eating reduces the risk of several types of cancer. It doesn’t get much better, health-wise and taste-wise!! I HIGHLY recommend the Hurst Family Harvest brand of bean mixes!!

 

 

I love to snack! Now I have found, a gluten-free cracker that I actually LOVE. You must run to the store and get CRUNCHMASTER Crackers!! Baked-in flavors that will totally satisfy, from the “I-just-want-a-snack” to “I’m-having-guests-over” and I want a great tasting cracker. Too many flavors to list – my absolute favorites are the Sea Salt, Cracked Pepper and Herb and the Roasted Garlic – major yummers!!

These crackers are all Natural, Low in saturated fat, Cholesterol Free, Wheat Free and of course, Gluten Free! They are made with brown rice and loaded with healthy grains and seeds like quinoa, sesame, flax, millet and amaranth. Sprinkled with sea salt, pepper, garlic and other flavorings to give rich, full bodied tastes.

FINALLY a cracker I can TOTALLY recommend as gluten free and healthy and best yet, enjoyable to just munch-on or serve to my most discriminating guests! Read more about this…

ONLY THE GOOD STUFF!

I just LOVE my job when I get a product like this to tell you about! I have had a lot of different granola in my time as I actually prefer granola to cereals personally but I have NEVER had one as good as Lulu’s! This granola is how I have always wanted it to be – loaded with goodies – oats, macadamia nuts (actual 3rd ingredient!), apricots, almonds, blueberries, coconut and apples!! Yes….you read it right! This granola is as if it was handmade in the kitchen! Sweetened with some agave and apple juice…..seriously yummy! Even the grandkids love this! And as you know, to get them away from the sweetened breakfast cereals is a major undertaking.

Gluten Free – Dairy Free – Wheat Free – Vegan – Ground Flax – Full of Omega 3 and Antioxidants – no Sodium and no Refined Sugars no Fillers or Preservative – makes this about as healthy and wholesome as you can get!! This is one of those special products that I simply want the whole world to know about, gluten-free or not!

OMG!! Betty Lou’s famous by-line, “Just Great Stuff…and Plenty of It!”, truly says it all!! We are talking 100′s of products that are Gluten Free, Dairy free, Corn Free, Soy Free, Vegan, Lactose Free, Barley Free, Hormone Free, Low or No Cholesterol, Low Fat, High Protein, High Antioxidants, and Organic-Certified – Bars, Protein Shakes, Fruit Bars – in more shapes and flavors then you can imagine!

To understand the huge product lines, you have to understand Betty Lou herself – full of energy, constantly creating, happy as can be, instantly smiles and loves you! This woman is a giant in her category – Bars and Shakes and Snacks!! You cannot help but fall in love with Betty Lou just as you fall in love with her many products – incredible variety, all taste fantastic, and all healthy in one way or another – a full supermarket for Bars and Protein Drinks for all types of allergy conditions, with 40 different products in the gluten free category alone! You must go to her site and see what I mean!! I get excited just looking at all the great foods available! Thank you Betty Lou for what you have created to satisfy the gluten free diet.

 

When they simply make the finest Food Processors in the world and you have prepared food with one for 30 years and it still works perfect and then they give you another one free, it’s mighty hard to not recommend that company – the famous brand, Cuisinart!! From Food Processors to Bread Makers to Blenders to Toasters to Waffle Makers to Coffee Makers to Cookware to Tea Kettles and on and on and on – “Cuisinart” simply stands for “perfection” in my mind. I have owned many Cuisinart products AND the wonderful part is I STILL own them all as I have NEVER had a Cuisinart product fail me yet – and that’s going back 30 years!! Their motto, “Built Stronger to Last Longer” is not just a motto, it’s a FACT for me. See my post with my full story on my Cuisinart experience at http://simplygluten-free.com/blog/2011/02/giveaway.html – and you will understand why this company truly rates #1 in my kitchen and I can without hesitation tell you, “Buy Cuisinart!”

Now here’s a company that is really taking nutritious snacks, cookies and cereals to-the-next-level!! Developed by a Doctor with the science of nutrition at the forefront of his thought process – these yummy Snacks, Cereals and Cookies by Kay’s Naturals – Better Balance – are a REAL solution to gluten intolerance, obesity and diabetic concerns as they provide Protein and Fiber to sustain energy, manage weight loss and stabilize blood sugar levels. Here is a REAL solution for the kids who want (and we need to provide them with) good snacks, cereals and cookies!! ALL of Kay’s Naturals products are Gluten Free!! The French Vanilla Protein Cereal tastes totally awesome – no trans fats – only 3gs sugar – only 100 calories – and 9 grams of Protein per bag!! I couldn’t put the Crispy Parmesan Protein Chips down once I started to taste them – total yammers!! And only 110 calories – no sugar – AND 10 grams of Protein per serving!!! You will find Kay’s Naturals Better Balance in Health Food stores or you can order assortments from Kay’s Naturals directly.

Finally, a great-tasting daily multi-vitamin drink I can enjoy and one that the kids love also, without tons of sugar or corn syrup, which comes in convenient packets for lunches or anytime pick-me-ups! Oxylent– a unique blend of multivitamins, minerals, enzymes, electrolytes, amino acids and antioxidants – is Gluten Free, Lactose Free, Caffeine Free and Preservative Free – and naturally sweetened with Stevia and a small amount of Organic Cane Sugar. And aside from coming in many super tasty flavors – Blackberry Pomegranate, Mandarin Orange, and Sparkling Berries – it also comes formulated specifically for Prenatal Moms and Children! Oxylent was rated 2009 Top Ten New Products and received the Best Supplements Award 2010 by Better Nutrition magazine – impressed me!! It’s available at Whole Foods and Vitamin Shoppes or for your convenience, you can order it on-line also. A real quality product that, again, tastes great!

 

You know I love my gluten-free desserts. But I am trying to make healthier choices in my eating habits. I believe that small changes can add up to big results. This is why I am now using Wholesome Sweeteners line of agave nectars, honeys, molasses and organic sugars. With no harmful chemical, no genetically modified ingredients and of course, no gluten I can feel just a bit better about enjoying my desserts! I may have started using organic sugar as a small step to healthier eating but the reason I continue to use it with such pleasure is that it tastes incredible! Not a sharp sweetness like bleached granulated sugar, it has a mild, mellow flavor which adds such depth and dimension to baked goods. This is due to a bit of natural molasses being left in the sugar crystals when they are milled. Wholesome Sweeteners sugars are all Fair Trade Certified so I can feel even better about giving my sugar business to a socially responsible company. Two of their products that have changed my life are the organic powdered sugar which contains no cornstarch and the maple flavored agave. Seriously, changed my life!

When I was developing gluten-free recipes for my dessert cookbook, I discovered SOLO’s Almond Paste in the local supermarket. Since then I’ve kept my pantry stocked with a half dozen cans, as I find myself reaching for it all the time, especially when making not only gluten-free but grain-free desserts. As we all know, when you take out gluten you run the risk of loosing the structure the gluten adds to baked goods. Oh! And seriously, it tastes AMAZING! It adds a sweet almondy goodness to all sorts of baked goods. I use it all the time in making cookies, cakes. Another reason I like Solo’s Almond Paste (as simplistic as it sounds) is because it comes in a can and as a result, I’ve noticed it tastes fresher than another brand I tried that came in a tube. Besides, I live in hurricane country – so a stocked pantry is a must! When torrential downpours happen it is good to be able to make gluten-free cookies! Solo makes many other gluten-free products – cake and pastry fillings, pie fillings, marshmallow creme, marzipan, apricot butter and many more items – see them all on their website at http://solofoods.com/

 

 

I love Kelapo’s coconut oil! Virgin coconut oil is known around the world as a healthy, flavorful alternative to butter and other oils and Kelapo is the ONLY organic and Fair Trade certified brand available – and its gluten free of course! Kelapo coconut oil adds enticing flavor to foods both savory and sweet without adding any trans fat. Great for cooking and baking with gluten-free recipes. It is also my secret weapon when I make vegan cupcakes and frostings. Erin Meagher, a high school teacher, discovered the value of virgin coconut oil as a replacement for butter and other oils and after extensive research has developed the finest tasting, highest quality food grade virgin coconut oil in today’s marketplace. Added to that, Erin has taken on the role of spreading the word to those of us so interested in our health. Kelapo is also committed to eco-friendly practices to protect and preserve the planet’s natural resources. And I just love companies who care as much about our planet as they do about making good products, don’t you?

I have found a turkey I can highly recommend to all my readers – Plainville FarmsTurkeys. Plainville Farms grows its turkeys in a humane, animal friendly environment and without the use of antibiotics. They use only the finest vegetarian feed free of any animal by-products which not only produces a healthier turkey but a better tasting one! Completely gluten-free with no injected fats, oils or gluten, antibiotics or growth hormones, these fresh turkeys are quite simply the best tasting turkeys I have ever cooked. And I am not alone in that opinion, Martha Stewartalso recommends Plainville Turkeys and they are the turkeys she sells as her signature turkey under the Martha Stewart brand. Plainville Farms are not only dedicated to raising safe, wholesome, delicious turkeys but are the leaders in humane, sustainable turkey farming.

 

Gluten free has never tasted so good – that’s Kinnikinnick’s motto and I wholeheartedly agree! 15 years ago when I first went gluten-free, I thought that many simple, beloved foods I had taken for granted were to become a thing of the past. But thanks to the dedicated efforts of Kinnikinnick we gluten-free folks can now enjoy breads, muffins, bagels, cookies, hamburger buns and even doughnuts! All Kinnikinnick’s products are gluten, wheat and nut tree free and many are dairy free as well. Not only does Kinnikinnick made delicious tasting gluten-free products, they are socially responsible as well, supporting groups that further the eduction of Celiac Disease and Autism as well as helping to fund Research Centers. As a note I recently tried one (or 5) of their K-Toos (a gluten and dairy free cookie VERY similar to an Oreo Cookie) and may I just say, it was a little bit of heaven in my gluten-free world.