As a mom to a child with food allergies, I’ve had to read, experiment and get creative in order to ensure my son is not only safe and nourished, but happy. If you think about it, food is very often an inherent aspect of gatherings and events. Every time we go out, whether it be to a play date with a friend or an afternoon at Disneyland, I have to think carefully about the food options that will be available for my son. Now that he’s nearly 5, he is very vocal about what he does and does not like, so I have to ensure that even if the appropriate food options are available, that he’ll actually eat.
Similarly, those who suffer from gluten intolerance or celiac disease often have difficulty finding gluten free foods that taste good…that they’ll actually eat. My mother-in-law and my aunt are unable to tolerate gluten, and I’ve listened as they describe the challenges they face when it comes to grocery shopping, meal preparation, dining out and social gatherings. I also imagine that having experienced how delicious breads, baked goods, and a wide variety of gluten-containing foods are, it would be that much more challenging to completely eliminate them.
I am incredibly thankful that I don’t suffer from gluten intolerance, and while I would love to implement a gluten-free lifestyle, I have not yet endeavored to do so. However, if I did, I would likely look to Udi’s for all of my carbohydrate cravings. I was introduced to the brand last year, and to this day, I still buy their Double Chocolate Muffins and indulge in them when I’m craving something sweet. I’ve tried a number of their foods (nearly all of them) and I can honestly say that there isn’t one I don’t like. Their breads are soft, their pizza crusts bake well, and their muffins (did I mention the MUFFINS?) are moist and delicious.
Most of my baking and cooking is focused on developing allergy-friendly recipes for my son. That may or many not include making the dish gluten-free. This week, I decided to take a gluten-free approach to a winter favorite…Grilled Cheese & Tomato Sandwiches and Tomato Soup. Here are my two recipes, both of which are quick, easy, and affordable.
Ingredients for Gluten Free Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients for Gluten Free Tomato Basil Soup
Gluten Free Grilled Cheese & Tomato Sandwich
2 Slices of Udi’s White Sandwich Bread
2 Slices of Vegan Cheese
Thinly sliced tomatoes
Vegan Butter
Simply butter both sides of each slice of bread. Layer a slice of vegan cheese on each side. Place the thinly sliced tomatoes in the center. Grill on medium heat. I like to take something heavy to hold the sandwich together and help the cheese melt on both sides.
Gluten Free Tomato Soup
1/2 Red Onion, chopped
2 Carrots, sliced and chopped
2 Cloves of Garlic, minced
1 1/2 to 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
1 Can of Tomatoes
1 Cup of Vegetable Broth
1/8 cup of Fresh Basil, Chopped
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Dash of Red Pepper (or more, if desired)
Sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until soft (do not brown). Add canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and seasonings. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes or so on medium heat, stirring frequently and being careful not to scorch the bottom. Use a stick blender to purée the soup. Allow soup to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or longer so that flavors come together, remembering to stir the soup. Serve with a slice of bread and a dash of fresh basil.
Variations: You can add celery or your favorite vegetables to the soup, if desired. You can also add a slice of bread to the soup before you purée i,t but be careful not to scorch the bottom of the soup.
Note: This is a vegetarian recipe, but not a vegan recipe.
Voilà! A gluten-free twist to your favorite comfort foods. I promise, you won’t even know that you’re missing out!
I love trying new things, whether it be the latest tech gadget, a different makeup look, or a new recipe. Very often I’m introduced to things I never would have discovered on my own, had I not ventured out to change it up. Whether you suffer from gluten intolerance or simply want to try a new recipe, I encourage you to visit Udi’s Gluten Free Living Community where you can find information about gluten free living and gluten free recipes.
Right now, you can enter Udi’s Look Again It’s Gluten Free Recipe Contest on Facebook. Simply submit your best recipe using one of Udi’s Gluten Free products for your chance to win. The grand prize is a three day/two night trip for 2 to California for a Gluten Free cooking class at Le Cordon Bleu. Ten finalists will receive an Udi’s shopping bag and $25 in udi’s Gluten Free coupons.
What do you love most about trying something new?
I loved combining new flavors and gluten free ingredients to create this delicious recipe. Now I’m curious to know, what do you enjoy most about trying something new?
For your chance to win a $350 William Sonoma gift card to purchase a Kitchen Aid Mixer or other gluten free cooking tool of your choice, complete these two steps:
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Udi’s Gluten Free. The opinions and text are all mine. Official BlogFrog Sweepstakes Rules.
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