Gluten-Free Luxuriously Now Has Email Updates!

For those of you that get updates via this website, just wanted to let you know that the same email update option is now available on my new website.  I know some folks were disappointed that the option wasn't originally available, so this will make it much easier stay up to date if you don't have the website on your Google Reader.  Sign up by going to www.glutenfreeluxuriously.com, then enter your email address in the text box on the top right and click subscribe.  Thanks and enjoy!

I've Moved!

I've been working on creating a more organized/efficient blog for both myself and my readers.  I'm happy to say that I'm finally ready to share my new website!  You will find the new site to be much more organized and easier to navigate.  There are also lots more recipe photos as well as printable recipe cards at the bottom of each post.  Come check me out at my new spot: www.glutenfreeluxuriously.com

See you there!

A Little Kitchen Inspiration...

The months in between the holidays and the start of spring can be brutal.  As fortunate as I am to live in Denver where a cloudy day is out of the norm and winter weather is actually pretty mild, I'm still affected by the shorter days and lack of outdoor time.  Sometimes it's hard to find inspiration, even in the kitchen, as the appeal of warm apple cider and chili starts to wear off around mid-January. In an effort to motivate myself, I decided look through some of my cooking photos to spark some new ideas or improve old ones. Take a look with me!

~ Chicken and Vegetable Soup ~

~ Chicken Chili ~

~ Gluten-Free Brunch with Ham, Eggs Over Easy, Fruit Bowl, and Arugula Salad ~

~ Gluten-Free Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ice Cream and Blueberries ~

(It was delicious but sort of fell apart!) 

~ Gluten-Free Eggs Benedict with Sweet Potato Home Fries ~

~ Gluten-Free Tacos (sub lettuce wraps for the shell) ~

~ Tomato Basil Bisque with Bacon ~

~ Gluten-Free Vanilla Fruit Tart with Almond Crust ~

~ Butter Chicken over Steamed Collards ~

Sweet Potato Home Fries

 Out with the white potato, in with the sweet potato!  Not that white potatoes aren’t delicious (and believe me, they are!), but I think most of us can agree that the starchy, carb-filled white potato has a much more limited place on the menu than it did a few years ago.  I have not cooked with white potatoes in over two years and, instead, have been experimenting with the deliciously versatile sweet potato in my kitchen.   With sweet potatoes, I’ve made everything from French fries and breakfast hash to mashed potatoes and chips.

Some benefits of sweet potatoes include: a low glycemic index, plenty of antioxidants, and an abundance of important vitamins and minerals.  It’s also important to note that sweet potatoes are part of an entirely different botanical family than white potatoes; and, perhaps most importantly, sweet potatoes do not contain nighshade alkaloids like white potatoes which can provoke allergies and cause inflammation.  For the those with inquisitive minds, here are few informational articles about sweet potatoes:

Sweet Potato Basics

Health Benefits of the Sweet Potato

The Difference Between Sweet Potatoes and Yams

One easy recipe that I fall back on again and again when I need some extra carbs (or extra comfort!) in my diet is sweet potato home fries.  A favorite of Dave and mine for breakfast or brunch, we’ve also served this dish for dinner and, judging by the positive response we’ve received from guests, this will be a dish to keep in the recipe book for years to come!  Enjoy my recipe for sweet potato home fries whenever you feel the craving for a good, home-cooked meat and potatoes meal!

Sweet Potato Home Fries

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 4 tablespoons fat or oil (butter, olive oil, or coconut oil)
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dice sweet potatoes into 1/4 inch cubes.  

Heat the fat or oil in a heavy skillet (ceramic-covered cast iron works best).   Turn heat to medium-high and add sweet potatoes, stirring until coated with oil.  Season with cinnamon, salt and pepper.  

Cook until lightly browned, stirring often.  Turn heat down to medium low to finish cooking.  Sweet potatoes should be lightly browned, cooked through, and a bit crispy.

 

Sweet potato home fries shown with my quinoa cakes eggs benedict, the perfect brunch!

Fat Head - A Review of the Documentary Film

It isn't often that Dave or I come down with a cold or debilitating illness of any kind, but for the past week we've both been battling a pretty nasty cold bug.  As they say "something's going around" and sometimes, as hard as we try, it's just impossible to avoid getting sick.  Needless to say, I've been spending a lot of time lying around reading, and, well, watching the tube.  Luckily we had filled up the ol' Netflix queue with some goodies, and Friday we treated our sick selves to Fat Head, a sort of follow-up film to Morgan Spurlock's 2004 documentary, Super Size Me.

I had actually not heard of Fat Head until recently, when a co-worker who has also had much success with a low-carb, whole foods-based diet, recommended the film to me.  Sadly, Fat Head has not experienced much mainstream success or popularity and, after viewing the film, I know exactly why: Fat Head challenges many of the myths we've been fed by nutrition "experts," doctors, agricultural lobbyists, the government and big pharma.  That's a heck of a lot of powerful people for one man to discredit!

I honestly couldn't tell you when the last time was that I ate at a McDonald's or other fast food joint, but up until a few years ago, I loved the stuff and would find myself in the drive-thru at least once a week.  However, all it takes is a conscious decision to change, and that's what I did. Not too far into my initial shunning of fast food I watched Super Size Me and loved it.  I think I actually cheered while watching it. So many thoughts filled my mind, but mostly I was thinking "McDonald's is horrible!  How could they be doing this to people???  They must be exposed!"  I was not alone with these thoughts, as Spurlock had planted the idea in the minds of thousands that the obesity epidemic and dramatic increase in chronic disease, heart disease, and diabetes all lay within the fast food industry's ability to feed the American people junk.  As easy as it can be to place the blame on McDonald's, this approach is neither logical nor fair. Fat Head has inspired me to think a little harder and apply the knowledge I already have regarding nutrition and the human body in order to come to a more logical conclusion as to why Americans are faced with this health epidemic.

In the documentary film Fat Head, comedian and health writer Tom Naughton proves that one can be healthy by eating a diet rich in good fats, discovers that many of the nutrition "facts" we've been fed over the past fifty years are bologna,  and shows it's even possible for one to lose weight by eating nothing but fast food for a solid month.  Before embarking on his 100% fast food diet, Naughton visits his doctor where he learns he is considered obese and has a very high body fat percentage, but also, surprisingly, find out his cholesterol levels are "incredible." Giving himself realistic rules for the experiment (he doesn't eat the salads and yogurt parfaits; he actually eats traditional fast food) but also taking into consideration that he is a human with a brain and can make decisions (i.e. saying "no" when asked if he'd like to super size), he decides to limit his caloric and carbohydrate intake to certain levels.  In the end, the guy actually loses weight and reduces his body fat by eating three fast food meals per day.  As a follow-up, he eats a diet rich in saturated fats, vegetables, and fruit for one month, totally eliminating grains and sugar, and further improves his health situation!  My favorite part of the film happens when Naughton visits his doctor following his first experiment, learns he has lot weight and lowered his BMI, and the doctor actually says "I don't like what you're proving here."  Hmmmm, I wonder why?

Now, don't jump to conclusions; Naughton is not stupid and does not promote eating fast food regularly as a healthy lifestyle decision, but instead digs deep to uncover facts and, above all, encourages freedom of choice.  Proof that a diet full of fast food is not the healthiest, he learns his HDL ("good" cholesterol) has gone down after his month-long fast food diet; evidence that the vegetable oils used at most fast food joints are detrimental to health.  Conversely, after spending a month on his saturated fat diet, his HDL shoots back up again, further proving that eating saturated fats does NOT have a negative effect on cholesterol levels. There is detailed discussion about cholesterol, what the numbers mean, and the fact that there is much more to it than "good" and "bad," unlike what our doctors tell us (at least most of us, anyway).  Along with the discussion of cholesterol and the lipid hypothesis, Naughton delves into the specifics behind how the body processes carbohydrates and the negative effects of a grain-heavy diet.  He also introduces the often pooh-pooh'd idea that overweight folks can be healthy with regular blood pressure, good cholesterol numbers, and no chronic diseases.  On the flip side, skinny people can be unhealthy (and many are), presenting with metabolic syndrome or other blood sugar-related illnesses.  I also appreciated Naughton's respect for the average person's intelligence level.  Most of us know that fast food is not healthy, but yet understand that it's a personal choice to eat it, whether daily, weekly, monthly, or only once in a blue moon.  Personally, if I never saw another McDonald's again, I would be happy (largely because I don't approve of their sourcing from factory farms), but that is just my opinion and clearly there are far more people who disagree with me, seeing as our country is full of Mickey-D's! 

Fat Head is filled with a good amount of humor (Naughton is a former stand-up comic, after all), but is also rich with information from leaders in the health and wellness field.  There are plenty of moments where Naughton refuses to tell viewers what to do or think, but instead presents the facts and leaves it in the hands of his audience.  While the basic premise of the documentary revolves around Naughton's fast food diet, the film reaches beyond the obvious and encourages viewers to think for themselves, realizing that creating a truly healthy lifestyle has nothing to do with the presence (or absence) of McDonald's, but instead comes from one's own effort, determination and willingness to learn.

Steuben's Brunch Review

Ok, time for take two at Steuben’s in Denver’s Uptown Neighborhood! This time Dave and I decided to try brunch at this renowned “urban diner” and I found myself to be beyond impressed with the gluten-free brunch offerings.  Not only could we have all of those deliciously bad forbidden delights (French fries, hash browns, chicken wings, etc.), but there were also plenty of other options to choose from.  The brunch menu is an eclectic mix of breakfast, lunch and dinner, with offerings like salads, soups, omelettes, eggs benedicts, sandwiches, burgers, and various sides, and, surprisingly, our gluten-free menu proudly hosted a good 75% of the regular menu (minus the bread, mind you!). 

Since it was Saturday and it is rare that we come across a gluten-free wing, we decided to share the buffalo chicken wings with bleu cheese.  Normally we request our wings extra crispy, but did not this time and we were both happy that the texture was neither too dry nor overly moist.  The flavor was there, but definitely not super spicy or overpowering.  I found the bleu cheese dressing to be one of the best I’ve had ; it was clearly house-made and had some chives mixed in for extra flavor.  Even the veggies served alongside were tempting – very fresh and crispy, definitely a step up from the anemic celery and carrot sticks that normally accompany wings.  I must say that we were thoroughly tempted by our server’s description of the “Steubie Snacks”, another item on the gluten-free appetizer menus which consists of fried pork chunks, dusted with powdered sugar and served with a house made sauce.  We did, however, resist the urge (at least on this occasion!).

As for the entrees, Dave decided to stick with a classic and had two eggs with sausage and hash browns.  Of course, he lathered everything with Tabasco, but not before I could steal a few bites.  The sausage patties were generously portioned and had a nice subtly spicy flavor.  Hash browns were crispy and the eggs were perfectly cooked (over easy); both were yummy.  As for me, I could not resist trying a cup of the French onion soup, and so decided to lighten up the rest of my meal by ordering the chopped salad, dressed with the house vinaigrette.  As a fan of French onion soup, I must say Steuben’s definitely gets this right.  The soup is not too salty but at the same time packs a lot of flavor.  They certainly do not skimp on the gruyere and, trust me, I did not miss the crouton!  The salad was a typical chopped salad with bacon, eggs, chicken, avocado, and tomatoes.  All of the ingredients were fresh and colorful, unlike a few chopped salads I’ve had in the recent past (I won’t name names here…).  I could take or leave the vinaigrette, as it was mostly flavorless but did add a bit of much needed moisture to the salad.  All in all, we were happy and quite impressed with the presentation and flavor of all of our dishes. 

It was, again, a nice sunny day here in Denver so we were able to dine al fresco.  The tables are nicely spaced and service was excellent, as usual.  Besides the fact that brunch can get a bit pricey if you include a couple drinks, I was very pleased with the experience and quality of food and will definitely be dining here again in the near future.  If you live or will be visiting Denver anytime soon, I highly recommend a visit to Steuben’s on 17^th Avenue in Denver!

Gluten-Free at DIA - Pour la France Review

Over the past weekend I was fortunate enough to be able to make a quick trip out to Boston to spend some time with Dave (he’s working there for a couple weeks) and also visit friends.  As an inexperienced traveler who has only navigated the airport on my own a handful of times, I was understandably a bit anxious about my trip.  Add to that my dietary concerns, the stress of a couple short layovers, and I had myself pretty worked up!  Luckily, I planned ahead, allowed myself plenty of time, and was able to enjoy a lovely gluten-free breakfast before catching my plane.

Pour La France, Denver International Airport

We all know how stressful it can be to find appropriate gluten-free food offerings, especially when travelling, and this trip was no exception.  On this particular occasion, I found myself desperately in need of an early breakfast since I knew I probably wouldn't be eating a meal again until dinner time.  And so, I was quite pleased to find my departure gate right next to Terminal B’s Pour la France.

Not only was Pour la France open early enough for my 6:00 am meal time (they open at 5:00 am every morning), but I also knew from a prior Google search that they would be able to accommodate my gluten-free diet.  I approached the hostess and asked to take a peek at the gluten-free selections.  She promptly handed me their designated gluten-free breakfast menu.  Of course, it was much smaller than the regular breakfast menu and I certainly didn't see any of those delicious-looking croissants or cinnamon rolls on my menu, but, in all honesty, I didn't care!  

The gluten-free breakfast menu has four meal options, most of which are omelette dishes, but they also offer yogurt, fruit, gluten-free bread, and a few other items in the "sides" section.  I decided to go with the Omelette François (ham, mushrooms, and cheese) and was given a choice of tomatoes or potatoes on the side.  For airport food, my meal was definitely “good enough” and did the trick.  Most importantly, I knew I was eating a meal which would sustain me throughout my travels and NOT make me sick.

The wait staff were extremely attentive, service was quick, and everyone I spoke to seemed to have a basic understanding of “gluten-free. “  Pour la France does offer gluten-free menus for lunch and dinner as well, but unfortunately I did not get a chance to look at these menus.  However, if what I read online is any indication then it's worth a try in the future. All in all, I was pleased that my meal decision was much easier than usual when travelling and now have a go-to gluten-free restaurant at DIA!

Should We Really Save Our Best for Later?

The idea to save our best for later has been around for a very long time.  It wasn’t too long ago that many of the items which we take for granted today were cherished household possessions.  Manufacturing and technology simply weren’t where they are today, and so it was quite costly and fairly difficult to replace items that may have been broken or lost.

Times have changed and we have certainly become more of a “throw away” culture, thriving on inexpensive, short-lived products while our few quality items sit behind glass or tucked away in the attic.  Now, many of the reasons we save our best for later are different.  However, I don’t think the concept to use our best more often is foreign by any means.  Several books I’ve recently read discuss the idea, it’s been mentioned many times on some of my favorite blogs, and I’ve even had a few friends and family members chime in with their take on the topic.  Since I found the same example used again and again, I’ll share it with you all as well:

How many of us have three, four, or even five sets of dishware?   There’s that REALLY nice china set that was a wedding gift or has been in the family for years.  This particular set either sits carefully wrapped in storage or inside a china cabinet, only to be used for very special occasions (or, more accurately, not at all).  Then there’s a set that’s not nearly as fancy as the fine china, but is still nice enough to use when company is over.  Lastly, there’s the regular, everyday set, cracked, chipped, and probably missing a few pieces.  This is what most of us serve ourselves and our families with daily.  Why do we save our best for later (which rarely comes, I might add)?  Why not enjoy what we have, getting rid of those expired dishes and use the nice stuff instead?  If a piece breaks, then replace it with something similar.  While a dish may be beautiful or carry family history, it shouldn’t be treated as a burden or an artifact.  Consider your family, your friends and yourself worthy of enjoying the best.

It makes a whole lot of sense to think about using our best when de-cluttering.  Do you really need to hold on to all those dish sets when one or two will surely be enough?  If you truly love something, why does it sit untouched in a closet year after year?  Clothing, dishware, furniture – many items we own are sometimes considered to be “too nice” to use for most occasions, and then sit, unused, for years!  These items were created to be used and enjoyed, not collect dust!  Some may argue that if we are always using our best, then what do we do when a truly grand occasion comes around?  It’s my opinion that there are always ways to make a day or an event special and, most of the time, it’s simply the joy of that particular occasion that makes it most memorable.  I also firmly believe that in life, it’s often the small moments that are most precious, and so I aim to make each of my “everydays” special.  I challenge you to use your beautiful china for a mid-week meal, drink a glass of that wine you’ve been saving for a “special occasion”, and wear one of those nice outfits in the back of your closet.  What a lovely way to enjoy life!

Slow Cooked Beef Brisket with Homemade BBQ Sauce

Along with whole chicken, beef brisket is another one of those meats that I had no desire to mess around with prior to about a year ago.  When it comes to red meat I tend to stick with the ground variety, largely because I just don’t like the texture of other steak-like cuts.  It wasn’t until I had regularly frequented the farmer’s market for about a year that I finally decided to try something a bit unfamiliar.  Dave suggested the brisket, and I, having no clue what to do with that two and a half pound cut, was understandably a little wary.  I forget how we cooked the brisket that first time, but what I do remember is that it was nothing like what I thought it would be.  Slow-cooking is really the best way to go and I find when properly cooked and served with a flavorful sauce, brisket can be moist and quite delicious.  While brisket isn’t a staple in my weekly menu, I do enjoy serving it from time to time, especially when I see a nice one at the farmer’s market.  Enjoy my recipe below!

For the barbeque sauce:

• 2 cups ketchup (use a corn syrup-free brand)
• 1 cup water, room temperature
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons ground mustard

 

Combine ingredients in a medium saucepan.    

Place over medium-low heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes.  Remove from heat and let cool.

For the brisket:

• 2-2.5 pound beef brisket
• Salt
• Pepper
• 2 cups barbeque sauce (recipe above)

Lightly salt and pepper the brisket.  Place in a slow cooker.  

Smother brisket with barbeque sauce.  Turn slow cooker to low and cook for 2 hours, turning brisket after 1 hour.  

Remove from slow cooker and slice into ½ inch strips.  Serve with remaining barbeque sauce.

What's Your Resolution?

While I’m not too keen on making one single big New Year’s Resolution, I do appreciate the tradition of reflecting on the events of the past year and thinking about how to move forward in the year to come.  If you’re anything like me, you don’t need a special season to set high expectations for yourself; you’ve already got the goals set with a detailed plan in place to ensure they will be reached in a timely fashion.  Ahh, the joys of being a Type A personality! Maybe you have made a single resolution for 2013 or perhaps you’re in the same boat as me, but in any case remember to stick to your guns, regardless of missteps, temptations, and naysayers. 

Don’t be too hard on yourself when you aren’t perfect.  I’ll give you an example:  Dave decided he would start eating 100% gluten-free for the New Year.  Twelve hours into 2013 he grabbed a beer out of the fridge and drank half of the bottle before realizing that his beverage was not gluten-free (another reason to rid your home of everything containing gluten!).  Clearly, this was not intentional, but a misstep still the same.  Instead of throwing his hands up and declaring gluten-free to be an impossible feat, he told me about it, we both laughed and then decided to buy some gluten-free beer to make things easier for him.  Likewise, don’t give up when you make a mistake or feel bummed about making slow progress.  As my husband frequently tells me, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”  So true.

Temptation can present itself in many forms, but we are most likely to give in when feeling vulnerable.  Make a conscious decision to remove yourself from situations that may result in giving in to temptation.  Don’t make exceptions.  Constantly remind yourself of the big picture, whether through gathering with like-minded people once a week, posting words of encouragement in your home, or simply spending some time each day in quiet thought to stay focused. 

Do what you feel is right, regardless of those who may doubt your abilities or ideas.  Remember that we are all here to do the best we can with the time we’ve been given.  Others may not understand your goals, but as long as you can see the big picture and feel you are heading in the right direction then that is all that matters.  Maybe you have noticed that YOU are one of the naysayers from time to time (we all are, really).  In this case, try not to doubt others but instead provide encouragement and learn to appreciate we all have different paths that are waiting to be discovered. 

What are your goals for 2013?  I hope you are able to achieve them and much more in the months ahead.  Cheers!

**If you are thinking about going gluten-free for 2013, take a look at my step by step plan HERE.  

Roast Chicken – My Favorite One Pot Meal

For years I was under the impression that roasting a chicken was hard work.  Perhaps it’s because I haven't known too many people who prepared a whole bird or maybe I assumed there was more to it than there really is, but in any case, I stayed far away from whole birds for quite some time.  As I have more recently learned, roasting a chicken is actually very simple and is a great dish to make when you don’t have a lot of time or energy for food prep.  A roast chicken with a simple salad can be a lovely dinner to serve for company, allowing the host to focus on spending time with guests as opposed to overheating in the kitchen! 

I usually get my whole birds from the Denver UrbanHomesteading farmer’s market at the Ranch Foods Direct stand.  Not only are the chickens local and good quality, but the prices are also quite reasonable and much more budget friendly than purchasing chicken breasts or tenders.  There is also the added bonus of being able to make your own chicken stock with leftover bones, another great savings measure (see my tips for making stock here).

Roast chicken in its most simple form is obviously gluten-free; however,  keep in mind that some restaurants may serve roast chicken with a gravy or sauce that usually contains flour and is NOT safe for the gluten-sensitive folks.  For an easy alternative to what you may find in a restaurant (and equally moist, I might add), take a look at my gluten-free Lemon Herb Roast Chicken recipe below. Oh, and Happy New Year!

Lemon Herb Roast Chicken

·         1 whole chicken, 3-4 pounds, giblets removed

·         1 yellow onion, thinly sliced

·         2 heads of garlic, cut in half

·         5-6 tablespoons butter, melted

·         2 lemon wedges

·         3 fresh rosemary sprigs(or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)

·         3 fresh thyme sprigs (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)

·         Sea salt

·         Pepper

·         1 cup chicken broth or water

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Place onion slices and cut garlic in the bottom of a roasting pan.  Place chicken on top of onions and garlic.  Stuff the herb sprigs and lemon wedges into chicken cavity.  Brush 2-3 tablespoons of melted butter on the side of the chicken facing up.  Season with sea salt and pepper.  Pour broth or water into roasting pan, taking care not to pour directly on the chicken.  Place in oven and roast for 45 minutes.  Remove from oven, turn chicken over, and brush with remaining melted butter.  Season with sea salt and pepper.

  

Place in oven and roast for 45 minutes.  Chicken is cooked when juices run clear.  For extra crispy skin, broil on high for an additional 1-2 minutes after chicken is cooked through. 

 

Gluten-Free, Step by Step

Going gluten-free – how is it done?  After my own experience yo-yoing on a gluten-free diet, I now undoubtedly know that the best way to go about eliminating gluten from one’s diet is to do it cold turkey.  It may sound easier said than done, and to some extent, it is. Unless you have a plan in place, you’re almost guaranteed to fall off the wagon.  When I initially took gluten out of my diet, I didn’t quite understand the repercussions that “just a little” bit of gluten were having on my health.  I was under the false impression that indulging every once in a while couldn’t hurt as long as most of my meals were gluten-free.  As I later learned, gluten can stay in the system for weeks, and even the tiniest bit of gluten can wreak havoc on those with the most minor sensitivities.  This is why I advocate a 100% gluten-free lifestyle for those who have or suspect a gluten allergy.  If you are thinking about going gluten-free, even just for a short while to determine if you have a sensitivity, please take a look at my step-by-step plan:

1)      Change your outlook.  While many people view a gluten-free lifestyle as one that restricts and makes it difficult to dine out or attend parties, try looking at it a little differently.  Not only will going gluten-free be much easier on your body and quite likely heal some of your ailments, it’s also much easier to eat healthy when subscribing to a gluten-free diet.  Most fast food, bread, pasta, and desserts will be out of the question, resulting in a lower carb intake.   Sure, there are gluten-free varieties of many processed foods, but most gluten-free folks find that after cutting back on carbs, the cravings just aren’t there anymore.  Plus, if you frequently dine out, gluten-free pasta, bread, and dessert simply won’t be available at many restaurants. 

2)      Clean out your pantry.  As I said before, the best way to approach gluten-free eating is by making it a lifestyle and allowing no compromises.  Get rid of everything in your pantry and refrigerator that contains gluten.  Donate your canned and boxed items to a food bank, ask a neighbor or friend if they would like some extra food, make a pie for the local shelter – whatever you do, get rid of all of the gluten-containing foods in your house!  Trust me, it will make the process much easier.

3)      Begin to embrace your inner chef.  No, you will not need to become a gourmet chef, but be ready, willing and able to prepare the basics: steamed rice, baked fish, your favorite fruits and veggies, etc.

4)      Make a two-week menu for yourself and your family, replacing favorite gluten-filled foods with gluten-free options.  It’s ok to have the same things over and over, but preparing two weeks’ worth of food will help you see the big picture and make the process more manageable.  Include things that are simple and require little preparation.  Here is a sample menu for one day to get started:

Breakfast – Yogurt and berries with a hardboiled egg

Snack – Lara Bar

Lunch – CranberryWalnut Salad with chicken

Snack – Apple slices with almond butter

Dinner – Baked salmon with rice and sautéed vegetables

Dessert – Dark chocolate squares

5)      Make a grocery list.  Include all of the ingredients necessary for your first full week of gluten-free eating.  

6)      Review your favorite restaurant menus to determine what you can/can’t eat there.  As gluten-free is becoming more main stream, an increasing number of restaurants are expanding their menus to include options for gluten-free diners.  However, some restaurants just aren’t ready to expand their offerings.  I strongly recommend checking out restaurant menus online or calling in advance to ensure you will be able to enjoy a gluten-free meal.  In some cases, your favorite restaurant many not be able to offer you much more than a salad, so be prepared to become a fan of salad or find an alternative.  I’ve found it very helpful to have a list of restaurants offering various gluten-free menu items like pizza, Italian food, burgers, and sushi.  If you are in the Denver area, take a look at some of my recent restaurant reviews for ideas.

7)      Come up with a plan when attending parties.  I find there are usually very few (if any!) gluten-free options at cocktail parties, casual outdoor barbeques, and event celebrations (baby showers, holiday parties, birthday parties, etc.).  To avoid starving yourself all evening or indulging in something you will later regret, have a light meal prior to the party and keep a small snack with you, just in case.  If you are attending a more formal dinner party, you may want to chat with the host beforehand to discuss your limitations.  In some cases, this may not be appropriate so, again, I would suggest eating a light meal prior to the dinner.  If there are plenty of gluten-free options, then you will still be able to enjoy the food, but your portions will be a bit smaller than if you had not chosen to eat a bit beforehand.  If there aren’t many options, then you will be glad you filled your stomach!  Food is a wonderful way to enjoy time with friends and family, but it doesn’t have to be the main event.  Enjoy parties and time with friends without focusing on food and try not to view it as a limitation.

Any other suggestions from my gluten-free friends?  

De-cluttering the Suitcase

Whether going to Grandma’s for the weekend or vacationing on a 10-day cruise, many of us have travel plans of some sort this holiday season.  Of course, along with the anticipation of spending time with loved ones and making fun travel plans comes the inevitable question: “what should I pack???”  I, for one, have always struggled with this question and so, in an attempt to make things easier, I always end up packing half of my wardrobe, a coat for each season, my entire bathing suit collection, and MANY pairs of shoes (just in case).  After about the millionth trip spent lugging around multiple suitcases and still with nothing to wear, I’ve decided to implement my de-cluttering policy when packing for my next trip.  Following many of the same guidelines I used when clearing out my wardrobe clutter, I’m going to focus on packing versatile pieces of clothing, appropriate for a variety of occasions.  I’m also going to limit the size of my luggage and the amount of bags I bring.  Even though we are driving and I could potentially use a larger suitcase, I will be limiting myself to one carry-on size piece of luggage, plus a large tote to keep with me in the car. 

De-cluttering the suitcase can make things physically easier during travel, create a more relaxing home away from home environment, and make for a more pleasant unpacking experience back at home.  Here are some basic guidelines to get you started packing for your next trip:

1)      Consider the event.  Is the trip casual or formal?  Where will you be spending most of your time? Do not pack a special occasion outfit “just in case.”  If there’s no obvious reason to pack it, then don’t.  Speaking from experience, I find it very rare to be invited to a ball while on vacation J.

 

2)      Consider the weather.  Check the forecast about a week before leaving and then again right before you leave the house, adding or taking away items accordingly.  And, as I learned one stormy day in New York City, ALWAYS pack an umbrella.

3)      Consider your mode and length of travel.  Longer trips call for more comfortable clothing.  A road trip with several planned stops may require a more polished travel outfit.  Regardless of how I’m travelling, I like to wear a large scarf, dress in layers, and keep sunglasses on hand.   

4)      Consider your accommodations.  Are you staying at a hotel with lots of amenities or will you need to pack your own shampoo, soap, hair dryer, etc.? 

5)      A week prior to the trip, make a list of outfits for each day, keeping in mind the considerations listed above.  If you are a visual person, hang your clothing items on a separate rod to make things easier.  Then, go back through and edit the list to reduce the number of clothing items and save space.  For example, if you have two pairs of jeans on the list, instead bring only one versatile pair.  Don’t forget items like belts, socks, gloves, pajamas and the like.

6)      Now make a list of toiletries and “extra” items like books, laptop, phone charger, etc.

7)      Wash clothing as necessary and pack all items (or as much as you can) a day or two before leaving.  I find this to be a much more organized approach to packing than the alternative of throwing everything into a suitcase on the morning of the trip.  By finishing your packing ahead of time, you now have the opportunity to add items you may have initially forgotten, thus minimizing the chances of forgetting to pack your toothbrush.

Happy holidays and safe travels to all of you!

Easy Appetizer Menu for Your Next Party!

Are you hosting a party but perplexed about what to serve?  Perhaps you haven’t had the time to think about your party menu and now it’s crunch time.  Whatever the case, we’ve all been there, with our best of intentions to throw an amazing party, only to be beaten by the clock.  It’s these occasions when I employ my “easy appetizer” menu.  Classier than serving chips and salsa but yet much easier to prepare than a gourmet spread, sometimes easy appetizers are undoubtedly the way to go. When planning a party, remember to inquire as to whether any of your guests have food restrictions and plan accordingly.  If you are serving appetizers a la my suggestions below, you will find that most special diets are easily accommodated.  Here are my recommendations, perfect for any occasion, any time of year:

Crackers – Nut Thins are gluten-free and come in a variety of flavors.  My personal favorite flavors are Smokehouse and Sea Salt.

Cheese – Offer several varieties, such as a simple mild cheddar or Monterey Jack, a soft cheese like Brie, and a harder cheese or one with a bit more depth.    

Sliced deli meats – Prosciutto is always a hit.  Thinly sliced salami is another great option. 

Jam – Recently, I came across this fig spread at Whole Foods and had to try it.  I served it with prosciutto, crackers, and Brie, and found it to be absolutely delightful.  This is definitely a new staple on my appetizer menu.

Veggies – The easiest to serve are baby carrots, but it’s nice to offer something green as well.  Cucumbers are perfect when sliced in rounds and can be used as a healthy substitute for crackers. 

Dip – This could be a favorite from the deli or a special recipe made in advance.  If you have a few minutes, I do highly recommend making your own.  One of my favorite dip recipes is SarahFragoso’s Roasted Red Pepper Dip (click on the link then scroll down for the recipe).  I’ve also included my easy honey mustard dip recipe at the bottom of this post. 

Olives – Pitted green olives are usually a safe bet. 

Fruit – Choose something easy to prepare and simple for guests to grab and eat.  Grapes are a wonderful choice year round; berries are always appreciated in the warmer months.

Nuts – Pecans and walnuts seem to be the most popular at parties.  If you have time, try spicing things up by serving my Maple Cinnamon Pecans.  Simply make them a day in advance, keep in a Ziploc bag, and serve in a cute bowl!

Honey Mustard Dip

·         ¼ cup mayonnaise

·         1 ½ tablespoons mustard

·         2 tablespoons honey

·         ½ teaspoon garlic powder

·         ¼ teaspoon cayenne

·         ½ tablespoon olive oil

·         ½ teaspoon lemon juice

·         Pepper, to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl.  Serve with sliced veggies.

Denver Restaurant Reviews - Uptown and Downtown

One of the best things about having out-of-towners visit is the opportunity to show them around the city, introduce them to old favorites, and possibly discover new little gems along the way.  My brother and sister-in-law recently visited and we had a great time wandering around town, checking out the scenery and eating delicious meals.  Looking back, I realize that we were quite the difficult crowd to please:  I am gluten-free, my brother is a pescatarian, my sister-in-law is a vegetarian, and Dave is just plain picky!  As you all know I’m always on the lookout for great gluten-free menu options, so here’s my review of three local joints and their gluten-free offerings (click on the restaurant name to view the menu):

Jonesey’s:

 I recently reviewed Jonesey’s and had some serious beef with them when they told me they didn’t have a current gluten-free menu.  Well, I’m happy to say Jonesey’s has redeemed itself!  As Dave and I have visited the restaurant twice in the past month, we have been quite pleased with the service, food, gluten-free menu, and even the Christmas décor!  They definitely have that “cozy, neighborhood” vibe going on.  All gluten-free diners know how difficult it can be to come across a truly great gluten-free menu at a casual neighborhood place, and in my humble opinion, I believe Jonesey’s has hit the nail on the head.  Since I rarely have the opportunity to indulge in French fries, I usually jump at the chance to split an order of gluten-free fries at Jonesey’s.  The four of us shared a double order, half buffalo half Thai ginger, so bad but yet so good!  The Thai ginger combo knocked my socks off; Dave has been a fan of the buffalo fries for quite some time now.  Needless to say, there wasn’t a fry left on the plate by the time we received the main course.  I went with the Savory Duck Rice Pudding, a new dish for me, and WOW was it fantastic!  I would say a good 2/3 of their regular menu is gluten-free, including the fries, mussels, hummus, salads, sliders (no bun), and all of the entrees besides the pasta.  While their prices are a bit higher than normal pub fare, keep in mind that their menu is very diverse and the food is much higher quality than your average neighborhood hangout.  I strongly recommend Jonesey’s, especially for those with dietary restrictions.

Steuben’s

I was beyond excited to visit Steuben’s since it’s been featured on the Food Network and is currently the talk of all Denver foodies.  And I definitely couldn’t wait to take a look at their menu!  As we waited for our table, I examined the enlarged menu posted at the entrance.  Everything from roasted Brussels sprouts to cheese fries to crab cakes were options – “this place is amazing!!” I thought, and probably said out loud several times.  As we were being seated, I remembered to request a gluten-free menu.  “Celiac or gluten-free?” the waiter asked me.  I went with the Celiac menu (apparently they have all sorts of allergy menus).  And then I looked at my menu.  Hmmmm.  I could have a salad, none of which looked all that appealing after I had spent the past 30 minutes drooling over the prospect of shrimp and grits.  I could also have several of the veggie sides, the steak plate, or the trout.  A tad disappointed in the limited offerings, I decided on the trout with a side of Brussels sprouts (yes, I went with the Brussels sprouts!).  My meal was delicious, trout cooked to perfection and served with crisp green beans and garlicky parsley potatoes.  The Brussels sprouts were actually phenomenal, if you’re into crispy crucifers like I am J.  I must also point out that when ordering off of a Celiac or gluten-free menu you are usually forced to eat healthier, so it’s really not all that bad.  My fellow diners seemed to enjoy their dishes as well.  The staff was excellent and from the moment we stepped foot into the place we were treated with respect and never had to wait long once seated.  As a point of reference, we went to the restaurant on a Thursday evening around 7:30pm and had to wait about 30 minutes for a table.  My only slight complaint about the service is that our server didn’t know what Celiac disease was, and so Dave and I felt the need to clarify several times that my order would be prepared gluten-free .  In conclusion, so long as you don’t order off of the celiac menu, you will have plenty of mouth-watering options.  And, even if you do order off of the celiac menu, I’m pretty sure your meal will still be delightful and tasty!

Tom’s 24

Tom’s is a very new addition to the Larimer Square section of downtown.  In the space formerly occupied by the Samba Room (right next to Comedy Works), Tom’s is in a fantastic location to attract all sorts of diners.  We went for a Friday lunch and left Dave at work.  The restaurant was packed with workers on their lunch breaks, but there was no wait since there is additional seating upstairs (the place is huge!).  My brother and sister-in-law had coffee, which they said wasn’t that good, but also added the disclaimer that they live in Portland where coffee is a big deal.  The menu, which is huge and a bit reminiscent of the Cheesecake Factory Bible (except not nearly as large), is divided into three sections: breakfast, lunch, dinner.  There is not a dedicated gluten-free menu available, but they have gluten-free and vegetarian dishes labeled as such on the menu.  Unfortunately, the lunch menu doesn’t have too many gluten-free options, mostly just salads.  I ordered the Cobb Salad as it seemed pretty substantial with chicken, bacon, avocado, and cheese.  The dressing wasn’t my favorite - a ranch remix of sorts – but it was not terrible either.  All in all, the meal did the trick, filled me up, and I didn’t have any complaints other than the limited gluten-free offerings.  Our server was excellent, very accommodating and friendly.  On a side note, the bathrooms were very clean and high-tech (commercials playing in/on the mirror).  I didn’t take a long look at the breakfast and dinner menus, but perhaps there are more gluten-free options.  I’ll give it another shot for breakfast and/or dinner, since it’s a new place and a much-needed restaurant concept downtown. 

Stay tuned for updates and reviews! 

Organization Part III - De-cluttering the Technology in Our Lives

I hope everyone has been enjoying the posts about de-cluttering!  Last week I discussed a difficult topic for some, the wardrobe.  This week I’m going to take de-cluttering to the next level by suggesting that while technology has undoubtedly made many positive contributions to modern life, it may also be preventing many of us from achieving, growing and living.  By the way, this is quite the revelation, coming from a former iPhone and Facebook addict!  Clearly, I still have an affinity for technology as I’m writing this for my online blog, and I’m not suggesting we give up on technology all together but perhaps, for many of us, a bit of reflection is necessary.  Just as we need be particular about relationships, food, and possessions, so should we be mindful of how we spend our most precious commodity – time.

The Phone  

I’m sure most of you reading this have a smart phone of some sort.  Maybe you’re texting someone right now, in which case unless you’re telling them how awesome my blog is, then put the phone down!  In all seriousness, as much value as smart phone technology brings to daily life, the dependence upon smart phones can provide severe limitations and also detract from quality of life.  I doubt I need to go into “the rudeness factor” as I’m sure most of you have experienced this by being put on the back burner whilst your companion checks his email, returns a text (or 10), or catches up on Words with Friends.  In my opinion, this is just plain rude, but unfortunately, this behavior is becoming quite commonplace and, therefore, acceptable in modern society.  As I have learned from my own experience, becoming more mindful in these situations helps to gain awareness of one’s own behavior. 

Over a year ago I noticed I was becoming very involved in my phone and decided to, for the most part, eliminate my use of the cell phone.  I still carry my cell phone, but without a data plan and now only use it to place the occasional phone call.  It’s not uncommon for my phone to be turned off for days, or even a week at a time.  Very rarely do I miss the ability to surf the web or look up directions, weather, etc.  I find that now I regularly engage in more human behaviors like asking someone for directions or the time, and carrying a book or journal with me if I know I may be waiting for a while.  It’s refreshing to depend upon myself rather than a machine.  

If you would like to de-clutter the phone usage in your life, please take a look at these simple suggestions:

1.       Become more mindful of your behavior.  If you notice you frequently check your phone for email or texts, or feel the need to respond immediately when you hear your phone’s notification ring, take a step back and adjust your behavior.  Unless it’s truly urgent (see #3), try not to immediately pick up the phone, especially if you are in the presence of company.  On that note, if you are with company and know you will need to answer a call or respond to an email, give your company a heads up.  This is a very polite approach and tells others that you value their time as well as your own business.

2.       Separate yourself from the phone for periods of time throughout the day.  Learning to live without your phone or turning your phone off for a small time frame at some point during the day can help with detachment, especially if you use your cell phone all day for work.  Dinnertime is a great opportunity to turn off the phone, set it aside, and devote time to the family, your pet, or yourself and enjoy a lovely meal, without distractions. 

3.       Learn when to classify communication as “urgent.”  It seems these days everything is urgent…but is it really?  “Urgent” means different things to each of us, but if it can wait, without negative repercussions, then it’s not really urgent. 

4.       Adjust the role of “phone” in your life.  Some people use phones simply to communicate with friends and family.  Other people use phones to play games, check out the App Store, text with abandon, surf the web, shop and occasionally make phone calls.  Whatever your use for the cell phone, ensure it makes sense for what you are trying to achieve in life.  If the hours a day playing games and surfing the web are making it difficult for you to accomplish personal or professional goals, then perhaps it’s time to turn it down a notch.

Television

As part of the de-cluttering efforts in our household last year, we decided to severely downgrade our cable.  Now, notice I said we downgraded, not cancelled, because we just aren't quite ready to give up television all together.  I definitely understand how it can be relaxing to unwind after work with a favorite TV show or watch a sports game at home over the weekend with friends.  However, it’s easy to become caught up in it all, especially with DVR technology, as Dave and I learned... 

It was earlier this year, after we returned from a week-long vacation.  While we were gone, we had recorded a week’s worth of “our” shows, ready for us to view via DVR upon our return.  I felt overwhelmed, knowing that we had to watch the previous week’s shows before the new ones aired that week, lest we should fall further behind.  As silly as this may be, the sheer thought of watching all of these shows in a day or two’s time actually stressed me out!  A couple of episodes in, Dave and I looked at one another, simultaneously sighed and turned it off.  A few weeks later we got rid of the DVR, HD, and downgraded our cable.  As dramatic as it sounds, I immediately felt freed as I had become somewhat of a slave to my TV.  All of a sudden, I had loads of time for other pursuits and no longer felt the need to unwind with TV every night. 

Activities

Entertainment comes in many forms, but I believe the best spark careful thought and true appreciation.  Sometimes entertainment can involve technology, but all too often these forms of entertainment can be consuming and mindless.  Try to balance technology in your entertainment activities.  Instead of spending free time gaming or watching reality TV or mindlessly surfing the web, try these ideas:

1.       Swap movie channels for a few quality films and the theater.  If you love the movies, why not cancel your movie channel subscription and use Netflix?  This way, you will look forward to just a few quality films each week instead of watching movie upon movie from the moment you get home to the moment you fall asleep every night.  Even better, try attending live theater or your local independent film theater from time to time to gain a different perspective on acting and film-making.    

2.       Enjoy the great outdoors.  While I most certainly wouldn’t call myself an “outdoor enthusiast” (hey, I live in Colorado, that title is reserved for the truly obsessed!), I do love nature and enjoy a tame hike, camping excursion, or fishing trip.  If you are reluctant to participate in outdoor activities because they aren’t your thing, start small and take a little picnic or walk the dog through the park every Saturday. 

3.       Get a hobby!  There’s quite a lot to be said for developing a hobby, something personal and special to you.  Perhaps this hobby is crafting or writing or cooking or something sports-related, but make sure it’s both mentally stimulating and rewarding. 

4.       Read.  Seriously, it’s a very under-rated activity!  Read whatever appeals to you, whether it’s a book about home design or FDR’s biography.  Or both.  Reading opens the door to new ways of thought and helps to understand others.  At times, read things you would not normally choose or be drawn to. 

5.       Frequent museums, festivals, art walks and other cultural events.  There are so many wonderful people and things to be exposed to in these environments.  Even if you are somewhat reserved, as I normally am, I find a small amount of exposure to these sorts of events to be quite fulfilling.

6.       Learn something new.  This is very fun, as you can choose anything you’d like!  I’ve noticed there are plenty of affordable classes around that teach languages, cooking, and various crafting skills.  If a class is not your thing (it’s not mine either!), try teaching yourself or finding someone who can teach you one on one. 

My personal examples may seem a bit extreme to some of you and an impossible idea for others, but I’m not suggesting that my decisions are the solution for everyone.  We all have our own unique experiences and I appreciate that; however, I truly hope these ideas have sparked some thought and inspiration.