Pictured: Quinoa Succotash with Spiced Tahini Dressing from Grab a Plate
Memorial Day Weekend is finally here – and with it comes the start of a sunny season filled with potlucks, picnics and outdoor grilling. These types of gatherings typically involve friends and family bringing favorite dishes to share – and thus some challenges for those of us living gluten-free.
Luckily, many requisite barbecue sides (baked beans, coleslaw, corn on the cob) are naturally gluten-free. But they can also be a little… well, expected. If you’re looking to switch things up a bit without venturing into gluten territory, we’ve got a great list of ideas to get you started.
This summer, try one of these delicious and easy gluten-free side dishes:
Ultimate Red Skinned Potato Salad, Iowa Girl Eats
Potato salad may not seem like an exciting choice. However, this one deviates from the norm by swapping mayo for a tangy vinaigrette of apple cider vinegar, honey and Dijon.
Avocado Amaranth Israeli Salad, What Jew Wanna Eat
With hearty chunks of avocado, tomato, cilantro and jalapeño, this tasty salad is reminiscent of guacamole. Instead of tortilla chips, though, you get to savor the ancient grain goodness of amaranth.
Strawberries and Chicken Pasta Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing, Peanut Butter and Peppers
By combining fresh fruit and pasta, this recipe manages to be two favorite barbecue sides in one. It also makes the most of the always-too-short strawberry season. Just use gluten-free pasta (like our Ancient Harvest Supergrain Pasta®) to make it gluten-free.
Quinoa Succotash with Spiced Tahini Dressing, Grab a Plate
Another two-for-one recipe, this one combines quinoa salad with another summertime favorite – succotash. And the creamy, spicy tahini dressing elevates it to a whole new level.
Roasted Root Vegetable Salad with Millet, Farm on Plate
Hearty and colorful, this substantial salad can be easily customized to suit what you have on hand. Be sure not to skip the fresh herbs, though – or the pomegranate seeds, which add a surprising sweetness and delightful crunch.
Looking for even more ways to liven up the picnic table this year? Try one of these: 16 Vegetarian Foods to Grill This Summer (from Health.com). From watermelon to sweet potatoes to leaves of romaine lettuce, the options listed here are varied and sure to spark your creativity.
Before heading outside to fire up the grill, learn more about the ancient grains featured in this post (as well as other cooking ideas) at AncientHarvest.com.
