Healthy Gluten Free Dinner Options

Reaping the Benefits of Gluten Free Diets

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. These grains are staples in many diets, so avoiding them means making significant changes to your meals. But this can be beneficial for some people. Eliminating gluten from your diet can help improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive issues. It can also reduce inflammation, improve energy levels, and help you lose unwanted weight. Cutting out gluten can be a challenge, but luckily there are plenty of healthy gluten free dinner options.

Simple and Nutritious Gluten Free Dinners

Sticking to a gluten free diet doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor and nutrition. An easy and delicious dinner option is a grilled chicken breast served over a bed of steamed vegetables. This combination is packed with protein and fiber and is gluten free. Or try a quinoa bowl with grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, and a light vinaigrette. Quinoa is a gluten free grain that contains all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. For a more indulgent dinner, whip up a batch of zucchini noodles with a creamy garlic sauce and a side of grilled shrimp. This is a healthier take on classic pasta dishes, without the gluten.

Gluten Free Substitutes to Traditional Foods

There are also many gluten free substitutes for traditional dishes. Instead of pizza made with regular dough, try making a cauliflower crust. You can top it with your favorite sauce, veggies, and cheese and you’ll still get that pizza flavor without the gluten. Or why not try making a Mexican inspired burrito bowl with gluten free tortillas? Fill it with beans, veggies, and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a filling and healthy meal. And for a comforting weeknight dinner, make a bowl of chili using gluten free ingredients. This is a simple and satisfying meal that is sure to please the whole family.

Gluten Free Snacks and Sides

In addition to dinner, there are plenty of healthy gluten free snacks and sides. A handful of nuts or a piece of fruit make for a quick and nutritious snack. Or try making a batch of roasted chickpeas. These are high in protein and make for a great crunchy snack. For sides, whip up a batch of roasted vegetables or a kale salad. Both of these are packed with vitamins and minerals and are gluten free. And for a special treat, make some gluten free pancakes or waffles for breakfast. Top them with yogurt, fruit, and a drizzle of honey for a delicious and energizing start to the day.

Making the Switch to Gluten Free Eating

Making the switch to a gluten free diet can be a challenge, but with a bit of creativity it can be done. Start by familiarizing yourself with gluten free ingredients such as quinoa, millet, and amaranth. These can be used as substitutes for gluten containing grains. Make sure to read food labels carefully to identify hidden sources of gluten. And don’t forget to check out restaurants and bakeries that offer gluten free options. With a bit of planning, you can find plenty of healthy gluten free dinner options that are both nutritious and delicious.