With the increasing popularity of gluten free diets, ditching the grains looks a lot different now than it did a few years ago. Product options have grown, allowing you to enjoy the foods you love on a daily basis. Best of all, you don't have to neglect your budget to afford this lifestyle. While moving into a gluten free diet can be daunting, a few simple tips, tricks, and recipes will get you on your way.

Pantry Basics

There are staples that every pantry should have, and stocking your pantry is one of the first steps to successful kitchen organizing. All it takes is just a little bit of planning to make your life that much easier! These basics will help your gluten free family prepare for any future meal without the frustration.

• gluten free flour

• green banana flour (AIP friendly)
• cassava flour (AIP friendly)
• coconut flour (AIP friendly)
• chickpea flour
• brown rice flour
• rice flour (usually the main ingredient in gluten free cup-for-cup flours)
• tapioca starch
• almond flour

• carbohydrates

• white/brown rice
• quinoa
• potato (sweet potato, japanese potato, yam)
• squash (butternut, delicata, spaghetti)
• polenta
• legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans)
• gluten free pasta

• proteins

• fresh cuts of meat, avoiding those marinated in sauces or broths
• lean turkey or steak
• grilled chicken breast
• fresh fish/seafood
• organic eggs

• dairy — Dairy itself is gluten free, but make sure to check the label for thickeners, malt, and modified food starch. These can contain gluten and are best avoided by those who are especially sensitive, such as individuals with celiac disease.
• spices — Spices in their natural form do not contain gluten, but make sure to check the label for wheat flours, food starches and thickeners that may be added. A good way to ensure spices are gluten free is to buy high quality. Some easy-to-use favorites to have on hand include:

• sea salt
• chili flakes
• cumin
• oregano
• black pepper
• garlic powder

• all the vegetables!    
  

Being gluten free does not limit your options at all! This is especially true as many food manufacturers are now coming out with gluten free options for best-loved foods such as bread, pasta, and pastries.

Here are some go-to gluten free meals that are simple, economical, and suitable for any day of the week.

Quick Lunches

Breaded Chicken Cutlets

Gluten-Free on a Shoestring

Author Nicole Hunn is famous for making our beloved family classics gluten free-friendly without compromising taste! Chicken breast is a staple food that can get pretty bland after a few nights, but changing it up with a crispy recipe like this one is a surefire way to keep things fun and tasty. These cutlets can be made spicy with taco seasoning or creamy with some melted Parmesan, and are sure to please either way.

Salmon-Stuffed Avocados

Eating Well

Salmon is a delicious fish that's packed with protein. Avocados are the perfect paleo-friendly vegetable. Combine these two omega-3 rich superfoods, and you've got a healthy, delicious recipe that’s easy to make and will delight your whole family!

Snack Time

Almond Flour Banana Muffins

Gluten-Free on a Shoestring

Gluten free guru Nicole Hunn strikes again with a recipe sure to turn into a beloved favorite. If you're looking for a way to make your baked goods healthier, almond flour is the perfect alternative to wheat flour. Not only is it a fantastic gluten free food, but it’s a great source of protein and fiber. Level up your afternoon snack time with these tasty, easy to make, grain free muffins!

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Apple Cider Donuts

Bob’s Red Mill

With apple cider vinegar’s many purported health benefits, incorporating it into more dishes should be a no-brainer. These Bob’s Red Mill donuts are a perfect treat for your afternoon snack and can be stored for up to 3 days at room temperature. You can make a batch for the whole family (or just yourself — that's acceptable, too!).

Make-Ahead Dinners

The Best Gluten-Free Pizza Crust

The Minimalist Baker

Pizza is one of those foods that most people can't go without, and with good reason. It's delicious and definitely on everyone's list of favorite recipes. But it's a lot more challenging to find an affordable pizza place that will cater to your needs if you're gluten free. Minimalist Baker offers tips on making your gluten free pizza dough from scratch — and saving big bucks in the process.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Gluten-Free Palate

There’s nothing like a classic chicken noodle soup to warm your soul and make your belly happy. This recipe shows you how to make the best soup and keep it fresh for the week. Knowing you made it yourself makes it that much more enjoyable!  

The Bottom Line on Going Gluten Free on a Shoestring

Misconceptions about gluten free cooking and living can make it seem hard to find delicious food that won't break the bank. Rest assured, a few tips, tricks, and recipes will help you find gluten free happiness and satisfaction while saving time and money.

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