Happy New Year from Gluten Free Taste of Home!

Happy New Year to all! I wish you and yours health, happiness, and joy in 2010.

Giveaway & Product Review - Attune Gluten Free Chocolate Probiotic Bars

Do you love chocolate? I do! I thought I had hit the jackpot when I discovered that I could eat a delicious chocolate bar everyday that was actually good for me! A company named Attune had the brilliant idea to make gluten free chocolate bars that each have a full days supply of probiotics in them! You heard right... healthy, "gut-loving" probiotics hidden in an all natural gluten free chocolate bar. The best part is Attune is GIVING AWAY a one months supply of their gluten free Chocolate Probiotic Bars to (1) very lucky Gluten Free Taste of Home follower (winner will receive 4 boxes containing 7 bars each = 28 bars).

Attune says:

"You might not think much about digestion until you have discomfort or digestive issues. Busy lifestyles, large meals, late dinners and other stresses can result in an overworked digestive system that could use a little help. Attune’s clinically proven probiotics help promote digestive health, so you can forget about feeling uncomfortable and focus on feeling your best.

Attune is a great way to help promote digestive balance, but remember, it's important to eat a balanced diet with 25-30 grams of fiber each day. Also, make sure you drink plenty of water or other liquids, reduce stress, and plan regular meals and exercise. If you continue to experience discomfort, talk with your healthcare provider. *Sources Danisco HOWARU Probiotic Research Library - read all the available scientific literature on HOWARU probiotic strains, Bifido and Acidophilus"

My 2 cents:

You might be wondering if a chocolate that is good for you actually tastes good; you bet! My 7 year old regularly asks for an Attune gluten free Chocolate Probiotic Bar for dessert, even when other dessert choices are available for her to choose from. It makes me feel great that my daughter with Celiac Disease is getting her daily probiotics... and it makes her happy that she gets a tasty chocolate treat! Although all of the flavors tasted wonderful I am especially partial to the Raspberry Dark Chocolate, my daughters favorites are the Chocolate Crisp and the Mint Chocolate.

Some beneficial facts about Attune gluten free Chocolate Probiotic Bars:

- Most clinically tested probiotic strains
- 3-8 grams of sugar
- Excellent source of calcium
- Only 80-90 calories
- 3 grams of fiber
- Take it on the go

You can purchase Attune gluten free Chocolate Probiotic Bars online, or find them in the refrigerator case of many natural foods markets (near the yogurt products).

WIN IT!

Attune is GIVING (1) lucky Gluten Free Taste of Home follower (28) Attune gluten free Chocolate Probiotic Bars (4 packs containing 7 bars each)! Winner may chose the flavors of the 4 packs!

TO ENTER GIVEAWAY (mandatory):
Become a Gluten Free Taste of Home follower (must follow PUBLICLY via Google Friend Connect in the side bar of this website) AND Visit the Attune website; LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me that you are now following gluten Free Taste of Home PUBLICLY via Google Friend Connect, AND also tell me the flavors of the Attune Bars you would like to receive if you are chosen as winner (4 flavors maximum please). *Please take your time choosing the flavors, as the flavors you list really will be the ones you receive if you win! (1 entry)
BONUS ENTRIES: (each entry comment must be entered separately to be a valid entry):
1) Vote for my Gluten Free Pumpkin Doughnuts AND my Gluten Free Vegetarian Spring Roll Recipe in the Foodista Best of Food Blogs Cookbook contest (click on the Foodista "Vote for me" buttons for BOTH recipes; you will find the buttons in the sidebar of this website, not far from the top.) LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me that you have placed your votes for BOTH of my recipes ON THE FOODISTA WEBSITE. (5 entries)
2) Grab my Freebie Fairy button and display it on your website/blog (copy the html code for my button from the sidebar of my Freebie Fairy giveaway website and paste the code into your website), and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it. (2 entries)

3) Follow Attune on Twitter and tweet this giveaway; LEAVE ME A COMMENT with the link. (1 entry)
4) Blog about this giveaway linking it back to my Freebie Fairy website AND the Attune website. Please LEAVE ME A COMMENT with THE LINK TO YOUR POST or it will not count. (5 entries)
5) Follow me on Twitter and tweet the giveaway; LEAVE ME A COMMENT with the link. MAXIMUM 1 tweet/RT per hour please! (1 entry PER tweet/RT)
6) Follow my Freebie Fairy blog and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it. (2 entries)
7) Grab my Gluten Free Taste of Home button and display it on your website/blog (copy the html code in the side bar of my Gluten Free Taste of Home website and paste the code into your website), and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it. (2 entries)
8.) Subscribe to the Attune newsletter. (1 entry)
*GIVEAWAY OPEN TO US ONLY*
Giveaway ends on Thursday January 7, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. PST. Winner will be selected by random.org. I will announce the winner by January 9, 2009. Winner will be notified by e-mail and will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected.
*REMEMBER... please leave your e-mail address with EACH entry so I can contact you if you win.
*“I received products for this review on behalf of Attune. All opinions are solely my own. Others who may use this product or service may have different opinions.”
Best of luck!

Kelly Ripa & Electrolux support the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund!

Kelly Ripa and Electrolux have joined forces to raise awareness and funds for the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.

Kindly take a moment to watch this short video clip of Kelly Ripa explaining the importance of this very worthy cause, and find out how you can help.

Please help spread the word by posting this on your blogs and websites!

Product Review - Jarrow Formulas

A few months ago I had the pleasure of reviewing the gluten free probiotic supplements from Jarrow Formulas. Today I am happy to present you with reviews for 3 more of Jarrow Formulas gluten free, vegetarian health products.



The PomeGreat Pomegranate Grape & Blueberry Juice Concentrate is quick and delicious way to reap the anti-oxident rich benefits of these juices. I liked the convenience of being able to drink just a small amount of juice, knowing it was packed full of nutrients.


Here's what Jarrow Formulas has to say about PomeGreat Pomegranate Grape & Blueberry Juice Concentrate:

"PomeGreat™ Pomegranate + Grape + Blueberry Juice Concentrate:

Decreases Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation.*
Promotes vascular and capillary integrity.*
Supports normal vascular contraction.*
Promotes normal cell function and proliferation.*

WARNING: Pomegranate juice, like grapefruit juice, may interact with a number of medications. People on any medication, especially on anti-hypertensive or cholesterol lowering medications, or people who are allergic to many plants, should consult their physician before taking pomegranate juice or pomegranate products.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. "I am a big fan of protein powder, and often whip up a quick protein fruit smoothie for breakfast or lunch. I was very happy to discover that Jarrow Formulas makes a gluten free, vegetarian brown rice protein powder. It has a neutral taste, and works great in my smoothie recipes!

Here's what Jarrow Formulas has to say about their Brown Rice Protein:

"Jarrow FORMULAS® Brown Rice Protein Concentrate, made from brown rice, is easily digested, hypoallergenic and a vegetarian/vegan source of protein."

Ideal for/as:

A high-protein alternative to soy and animal products.

Those with gastrointestinal sensitivity to milk, wheat, soy and other proteins.

Jarrow FORMULAS® Brown Rice Protein Concentrate, is made using an all natural process that does not involve the use of chemical solvents.

Jarrow FORMULAS® Brown Rice Protein Concentrate, is specially processed to provide a complete amino acid profile, providing a vegetarian/vegan protein alternative. The protein quality scores exceed 100% for almost all the amino acids in the product.

No added sugar, artificial flavors or sweeteners. Non-GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms).

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."

I have wanted to try Spirulina supplements for some time, and was pleased to finally get my chance. I am interested in anything that might support the body's detoxification process.


Here's what Jarrow Formulas has to say about their Organic Spirulina supplements:

"Jarrow FORMULAS® Organic Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a species of cyanobacteria and a nutrient-dense food, with naturally occurring vitamin B12 and phytonutrients, including the green pigment chlorophyll and carotenoids, which are free radical scavengers shown to induce the Phase 2 liver detoxification enzymes that play an essential role in the body’s detoxification system.*

Jarrow FORMULAS® Organic Spirulina is certified 100% organic and guaranteed to be free of herbicides and pesticides.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."

I am always on the lookout for a gluten free vitamin supplement that is geared for a woman, and does not upset my stomach. I have been very pleased with the Women's Multi from Jarrow Formulas. It has been one of the few daily supplements that my sensitive stomach can tolerate.

Here's what Jarrow Formulas has to say about their Women's Multi Vitamins:

"Jarrow FORMULAS® Women’s Multi is specially formulated to meet women’s nutritional needs:

• Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption, needed for maintaining strong bones.
• For antioxidation protection against free radical damage: Pomegranate, gamma-tocopherol, selenium and grape seed extract.*
• For vision: Bilberry, lutein and selenium.*
• For skin and healthy veins: Bioflavonoids, grape seed extract and pomegranate extract.*
• For brain and nerve tissue: Methyl B12, the superior coenzyme form of B12.*
• For tonifying: Shatavari, an Ayurvedic herb for the health of the blood, mucous membranes and reproductive organs.*

WARNING: Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is the leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6. In case of accidental overdose, call a doctor or poison control center immediately.

Suitable for vegetarians/vegans

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."

I have been very pleased with all of the health products that I have tried from Jarrow Formulas in the last few months. I admire Jarrow for going the extra mile to accommodate people with food intolerances, by offering some products that are gluten free, vegetarian, dairy free and soy free (check each product listing to verify ingredients).

Visit the store locater page on the Jarrow Formulas website if you would like to find a store near you that carries their products.

*Consult with your physician before using any supplements or other health related products.

*“I received products for this review on behalf of Jarrow Formulas. All opinions are solely my own. Others who may use this product or service may have different opinions.”

Gluten Free Cheese & Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

These tempting Gluten Free Cheese & Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms are one of my very favorite recipes. Traditionally, I serve appetizers and cocktails on New Years Eve; these warm, savory, bite-sized beauties always seem to find their way on to my holiday appetizer menu. As a matter of fact, I love these Gluten Free Cheese & Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms so much that I serve them to my family for dinner throughout the year with a side of quinoa and a hearty dinner salad.

Try adding this easy to prepare gluten free appetizer to your New Years Eve menu... you might just find you love it enough to serve it year round as well!

Gluten Free Cheese & Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

24 fresh mushrooms, stems removed
1 (10 oz. package) frozen chopped spinach
2 ounces cream cheese
4 ounces feta cheese
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel. Thaw spinach in a colander; squeeze out as much of the moisture as possible. In a mixing bowl combine all ingredients except mushrooms and parmesan cheese; mix well. Fill the mushroom caps with cheese-spinach mixture and place on a cookie sheet (use a cookie sheet with sides to contain the liquid emitted from the mushrooms during baking). Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top of mushrooms. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through. Serve warm. Yield: 2 dozen.

Enjoy!

Giveaway Winners - Gluten Free Handcrafted Vegan Truffles from Missionary Chocolates

Congratulations to:

#9 Doreen (8 piece box of Truffles)

AND

#11 esme (4 piece box of Truffles)

I am e-mailing you now; please reply to my e-mail within 48 hours and provide your shipping address, or new winners will be chosen.

Special thanks to Missionary Chocolates for sponsoring this giveaway!

Happy Holidays from Gluten Free Taste of Home!

I would like to take a moment to wish all of you a happy, healthy, and safe holiday season. Thank you for being a part of Gluten Free Taste of Home in 2009. I look forward to sharing new gluten free recipes, giveaways, and product reviews with you in 2010!

Giveaway Winner - Surf Sweets Gluten Free , Natural, Organic Candy

The winner of the Surf Sweets Gluten Free, Natural, Organic Candy Giveaway is:

#2 *Chandice*

Congratulations Chandice!

I am e-mailing you now. Please respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be chosen. Special thanks to Surf Sweets for sponsoring this giveaway.

Giveaway & Product Review - Gluten Free Handcrafted Vegan Truffles from Missionary Chocolates

WOW! Do I have a yummy giveaway for you! If you like Truffles then you will love these delicious, handcrafted, gluten free, vegan truffles by Missionary Chocolates. This is your chance to savor a collection of rich, uniquely flavored truffles made by hand from the artisans at Missionary Chocolates. The first lucky Gluten Free Taste of Home follower chosen will win an 8 piece box of Missionary Chocolates and the second Gluten Free Taste of Home follower will win a 4 piece box of Missionary Chocolates! What a sweet way to bring in the New Year!

The flavor selection that Missionary Chocolates has to offer is cutting edge, and oh so tempting! You will find scrumptious flavor combinations such as: Meyer Lemon Explosion, Glorious Ginger, Smooth Espresso Squares, Spicy Cinnamon Chipolte, Dark Chocolate Delight, Peanut Butter Perfection, Coconut Silk, Sweet Raspberry Hearts, Peppermint Perfection, Salted Vanilla Caramels and Coconut Curry Lemongrass.

A message for you from Missionary Chocolates:

"Our vision at Missionary Chocolates is to create vegan truffles that surpass all expectations whether you are specifically seeking a non-dairy confection, or you just love excellent chocolate! Our truffles are so incredibly rich and creamy that they satisfy even the most elevated chocolate-connoisseur palate!

We want to enthrall you with our wonderful dairy-free, gluten-free confections. All of our truffles are made by hand in Portland, and are created using the freshest local and organic products available to us. We use only Oregon-grown berries, and take pride in using organic coffee, locally-grown peppermint oil and superior quality Fair-Trade Guittard chocolate.
We have some of the most unique and exciting flavors to be found in any chocolate confections, and are thrilled to be able to share these exceptional truffles with you.

Our product lines vary with the influence of the seasons, so visit us often to experience innovative new flavors that surprise and delight!"

I was so excited when I received my sample truffles from Missionary Chocolates; I couldn't wait to open the pretty purple box and taste one! From the very first bite I was in "truffle heaven". I was amazed at how velvety smooth and rich these truffles were! Don't let the words vegan or dairy-free fool you... Missionary Chocolates has perfected the art of making gluten free, vegan, truffles that have the same smooth silky rich taste and texture that you would expect from a non-vegan truffle.

My favorite flavors? Hmmmmm.... that's a really tough choice because they were all fabulous! If I had to narrow it down, my top 5 favorite flavors would be: Meyer Lemon Explosion, Sweet Raspberry Hearts, and Spicy Cinnamon Chipolte. What? You have never tasted spicy chocolate? It's time to try it! Talk about a wonderful marriage of flavors, Spicy Cinnamon Chipolte truffles from Misioanry Chocolates taste truly amazing!

You can order these decadent gluten free, vegan, handcrafted Chocolates directly from the Missionary Chocolates website. They are also available at several locations throughout Oregon, and in New York. California locations are coming soon.

WIN IT!

Missionary Chocolates is giving away an 8 piece box of gluten free, vegan, handcrafted truffles to the first Gluten Free Taste of Home winner chosen, and a 4 piece box of gluten free, vegan, handcrafted truffles to the second Gluten Free Taste of Home winner chosen!

TO ENTER GIVEAWAY (mandatory): Become a follower of my Gluten Free Taste of Home website AND Visit the Missionary Chocolates website; LEAVE ME A COMMENT describing the flavors/ingredients of the Missionary Chocolate truffle you would most like to taste.

BONUS ENTRIES: (each entry comment must be entered separately to be a valid entry):

1) Grab my Freebie Fairy button and display it on your website/blog (copy the html code for my button from the sidebar of my Freebie Fairy giveaway website and paste the code into your website), and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it.

2) Follow Missionary Chocolates on Twitter and tweet this giveaway; LEAVE ME A COMMENT with the link.

3) Get (5) bonus entries if you: Blog about this giveaway linking it back to my Freebie Fairy website AND the Missionary Chocolates website. Please LEAVE ME A COMMENT with THE LINK TO YOUR POST or it will not count.

4) Follow me on Twitter and tweet the giveaway; LEAVE ME A COMMENT wit the link.

5) Follow my Freebie Fairy blog and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it.

6) Grab my Gluten Free Taste of Home button and display it on your website/blog (copy the html code in the side bar of my Gluten Free Taste of Home website and paste the code into your website), and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it.

7.) Visit the Missionary Chocolates blog and leave a comment after one of their posts.

*GIVEAWAY OPEN TO US ONLY*

Giveaway ends on Wednesday December 29, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. PST. Winners will be selected by random.org. I will announce the winners by December 31, 2009.Winners will be notified by e-mail and will have 48 hours to respond before new winners are selected.

*REMEMBER... please leave your e-mail address with EACH entry so I can contact you if you win.

*“I received products for this review on behalf of Missionary Chocolates. All opinions are solely my own. Others who may use this product or service may have different opinions.”

Best of luck!

Giveaway Winners - Gluten Free, Vegan, Artichoke Burgers & Gluten Free, Vegan, "Save a Chicken Salad" from Five Star Foodies

#7 glutenfreefoodsrock

AND

#5 Christin

Congratulations!

Special thanks to Five Star Foodies for sponsoring this giveaway!

Gluten Free Pasta & Broccoli Alfredo

Gluten Free Pasta & Broccoli Alfredo is an easy week night meal that my whole family can agree on. It couldn't be simpler to prepare this rich and creamy gluten free pasta dish. Time saving steps such as cooking the broccoli in the same pot as the pasta result in less after dinner clean up (that's a plus in my book!). Feel free to substitute a jar of gluten free Alfredo sauce and frozen broccoli florets for their homemade and fresh counter parts if you are super-crunched for time, it still tastes great!

Gluten Free Pasta & Broccoli Alfredo

8 oz. cream cheese, cubed
2 cups milk
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine
4 cups fresh (or frozen) broccoli florets
1 pkg. gluten free pasta (I used Tinkyada Brown Rice Pasta Shells)
2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
1/2 tsp. black pepper

Ground nutmeg; optional

Place cream cheese, milk, and butter in medium saucepan. Cook on low heat until cream cheese is completely melted and mixture is well blended, stirring frequently.

Cook pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli to pot during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking time (approximately 3 minutes for crisp tender broccoli, 5 minutes for softer broccoli). Drain. Place in large serving bowl.


Add 1 cup of Parmesan cheese and the black pepper to cream cheese sauce; mix well. Add to pasta mixture; mix lightly. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle lightly with ground nutmeg if desired. Yield: 4-6 servings

*For more gluten free menu ideas visit The Gluten Free Homemaker and check out the "What Can I Eat That's Gluten Free?" page.

Enjoy!

Giveaway & Product Review - Surf Sweets Gluten Free, Natural, & Organic Candy

Looking for gluten free gummy candy that is also organic and natural? Look no further... Surf Sweets has created a yummy collection of gluten free, natural organic gummy candy that is sure to please both kids and their parents alike.

My kids are at the age when it is important to them to have the same trendy treats as other children at school and in the neighborhood. However, I am at the age where it is important to me to offer my kids the healthiest version of treats I can find. Surf Sweets offers the perfect balance of sweet, gummy candy goodness with a health conscious approach.

Here's what Surf Sweets want you to know:

"At Surf Sweets, we love candy! We’re passionate about making the world’s most flavorful candy using all natural pure ingredients. We’re also a company that cares about the health and well-being of our customers and our planet. These values have inspired us to launch a complete line of all-natural, organic gummy candy and jelly beans.

We want to help you foster a healthy lifestyle for you and your family. In addition to using natural, organic ingredients, Surf Sweets candy provides 100% of your Vitamin C per serving. We also understand that what’s not in your food can be just as important as what is. That’s why all of our products are free of trans fats, GMOs, corn syrup, gluten, artificial colors and flavors. We also produce our products in a peanut-free facility that is free of other common allergens (wheat, dairy, soy, eggs, tree nuts, shell fish, and fish).

Staying active is also an important part of staying healthy. Engaging in fun sports such as swimming, running, hiking, active play -- and of course SURFING -- is fun and healthy. We like to ride the waves whenever we can, and hope that you’ll do the same!

When we say that our candy is made from all-natural ingredients, we mean that we don’t use synthetic flavors and artificial colors. If it doesn’t exist in nature, you won’t find it in Surf Sweets. Our products reflect the healthier environment that inspired the “Surf Sweets” brand and you can taste the difference.

When a product is certified USDA Organic, its ingredients have been grown free of artificial fertilizers and harsh chemical pesticides. Organic agricultural practices enhance the biological structure and nutrients of the soil, resulting in a pure, high-quality harvest and the long-term sustainability of the farm. All of our products use certified USDA Organic and natural ingredients grown the way nature intended. "

I think that Surf Sweets has hit the nail on the head with there unique brand of gluten free, natural, organic candy. I enjoyed eating these delicious treats as much as my children. I haven't eaten gummy candy since becoming a vegetarian, but because all of the samples Surf Sweets sent me to review were also gelatin free, I could indulge. I felt like I was a kid again, enjoying the simple pleasures of gummy candies. My favorite was The Sour Berry Bears. :) My kids thought the Sour Worms and the Gummy Swirls were awesome (what kid doesn't love the gross out factor of worm shaped candy?). My husband went for the Jelly Beans (he's a traditionalist ;-)).

What will your families favorite fruity, juicy, Surf Sweets gummy candy flavor be?

WIN IT!!

Surf Sweets is giving away (1) prize package containing an assortment of their gluten free, natural and organic candy AND a Surf Sweets T-shirt to (1) Gluten Free Taste of Home follower!


TO ENTER GIVEAWAY (mandatory): Become a follower of my Gluten Free Taste of Home website AND Visit the Surf Sweets website; LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me the name of a Surf Sweets candy (other than the one's in this review) that you think sounds yummy.


BONUS ENTRIES: (each entry comment must be entered separately to be a valid entry):


1) Grab my Freebie Fairy button and display it on your website/blog (copy the html code for my button from the sidebar of my Freebie Fairy giveaway website and paste the code into your website), and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it.


2) Follow Surf Sweets on Twitter and tweet this giveaway; LEAVE ME A COMMENT with the link.

3) Get (5) bonus entries if you: Blog about this giveaway linking it back to my Freebie Fairy website AND the Surf Sweets website. Please LEAVE ME A COMMENT with THE LINK TO YOUR POST or it will not count.


4) Follow me on Twitter and tweet the giveaway; LEAVE ME A COMMENT wit the link.

5) Follow my Freebie Fairy blog and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it.


6) Grab my Gluten Free Taste of Home button and display it on your website/blog (copy the html code in the side bar of my Gluten Free Taste of Home website and paste the code into your website), and LEAVE ME A COMMENT telling me you did it.

*GIVEAWAY OPEN TO US ONLY*


Giveaway ends on Wednesday December 16, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. PST. Winner will be selected by random.org. I will announce the winner by December 18, 2009.Winner will be notified by e-mail and will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected.

*REMEMBER... please leave your e-mail address with EACH entry so I can contact you if you win.*


“I received a product for this review on behalf of Surf Sweets. All opinions are solely my own. Others who may use this product or service may have different opinions.”

Best of luck!

Gluten Free Fresh Creamed Spinach

Every Christmas, my family enjoys this simple and comforting Gluten Free Fresh Creamed Spinach dish, as an accompaniment to our holiday meal. If you have never made this timeless dish from scratch using fresh spinach, I highly recommend it. Frozen spinach can be used with tasty results if you are short on time, but if you have a few extra minutes to invest in chopping fresh spinach you will love the outcome even more!

Gluten Free Fresh Creamed Spinach

4 packages (9 ounces each) fresh baby spinach
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1/4 cup gluten free flour (I use sweet white rice flour for this dish)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
Salt and white pepper to taste

Place spinach in a Dutch oven over 1 in. of water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Cover and steam just until wilted, about 4 minutes. Drain; chop and set aside.

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the gluten free flour until smooth. Gradually add cream and milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in the onion, salt and pepper. Fold in spinach; heat through. Yield: 8 servings.

*Recipe adapted from Taste of Home magazine

*For more gluten free menu ideas visit the Gluten Free Homemaker and check out the What Can I Eat That's Gluten Free page.

Enjoy!

Giveaway & Product Review - Gluten Free, Vegan, Artichoke Burgers & Gluten Free, Vegan, "Save a Chicken Salad" from Five Star Foodies

I recently heard that a company called Five Star Foodies was making gluten free, vegan, all natural Artichoke Burgers and a wildly intriguing gluten free, vegan, item named "Save-a-Chicken-Salad." Valerie Williams from Five Star Foodies was kind enough to send me samples of each to experience for myself. Know what's even better? She kindly offered to GIVEAWAY a package of gluten free, vegan, Artichoke Burgers and a carton of gluten free, vegan, Save-a-Chicken-Salad to (2) lucky Gluten Free Taste of Home readers.!

I must be honest, I really had no idea what to expect with the gluten free, vegan, "Save-a-Chicken-Salad." But let me tell you friends... I thought it was phenomenally delicious! I kept reading the ingredient label, wondering how in the world they were able to create this vegan product to taste so much like traditional chicken salad. This is definitely a "must try."

Check out the details:

Now, for the Five Star Foodies gluten free, vegan, Artichoke Burgers. Come on guys, it's artichoke hearts made into burger patties... you know that has to be yummy! In my household, we are artichoke fanatics. Even my kids scan the grocery store produce isles and Sunday paper for sales on artichokes. ;-) When I served these fabulous artichoke burgers to my family for dinner they were thrilled. We just put them on the grill and in minutes we were in artichoke burger heaven. You can also prepare them on the stove top with equally delicious results. If you like artichokes, and are tiring of the same old gluten free veggie burger patties I HIGHLY recommend you give these gluten free, vegan, Artichoke from Five Star Foodies a try.

Check out the details:

Want to buy them?

You can visit your local Whole foods Market or other speciality health food store, OR you can order directly from the Five Star Foodies website and have your food delivered to your front door (gotta love that!).


Win Them!

Five Star Foodies is GIVING AWAY a package of gluten free, vegan, Artichoke Burgers and a carton of gluten free, vegan, Save-a-Chicken-Salad to (2) lucky Gluten Free Taste of Home readers!

TO ENTER GIVEAWAY:

Visit the Five Star Foodies website and leave me a comment at the end of this post telling me which Five Star Foodie all natural beverage sounds the most refreshing.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1) Become a follower of Five Star Foodies on Twitter and tweet the giveaway.

2) Subscribe to the Five Star Foodies blog.

3) Subscribe to my Freebie Fairy giveaway blog by e-mail or reader.

4) Become a follower of my Freebie Fairy giveaway blog.

5) Grab my Freebie Fairy button and display it on your website/blog (copy the html code for my button from the sidebar of my Freebie Fairy website and paste the code into your website).

6) Get (5) bonus entries if you: Blog about this giveaway linking it back to my Gluten Free Taste of Home and the Five Star Foodies website. PLEASE LEAVE ME THE LINK TO YOUR POST WITH YOUR ENTRY or it will not count.

7) Follow me on Twitter and tweet the giveaway.

Giveaway ends December 10, 2009 at 7:00 p.s.t. Winners will be announced by December 12, 2009. Winners will be chosen by Random.org. Winners will have 48 hours to respond, or new winners will be chosen.

Important: Remember to leave your e-mail address with EACH ENTRY COMMENT so I can contact you if you win.

Open to US only.

Best of Luck!

*“I received these products for this review on behalf of Five Star Foodies. All opinions are solely my own. Others who may use this product or service may have different opinions.”

Gluten Free Pineapple Upside Down Cake

You can make this beautiful and delicious Gluten Free Pineapple Upside Down Cake for your next holiday gathering... it's so easy! Believe it or not, it starts with a gluten free cake mix so the prep time is minimal. The results? A perfectly moist classic dessert that sings of holiday cheer.

Gluten Free Pineapple Upside Down Cake

1 box gluten free yellow cake mix, one layer size (I used Betty Crocker Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix)

3 tablespoons butter, melted

3/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed

6 slices canned pineapple rings

6 maraschino cherries, without stems

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly spray (the sides only) of a 9 inch cake pan with nonstick cook spray and set aside. Prepare cake batter according to package directions (do not bake or pour into pan, just set the bowl of batter aside).

Pour melted butter into the bottom of the prepared cake pan and rotate pan to evenly distribute; sprinkle butter evenly with brown sugar. Arrange pineapple slices on top of brown sugar. Place a maraschino cherry in the hole of each pineapple ring. Pour the prepared cake batter over the pineapple, distributing evenly.

Choose a bake time according to directions on your cake mix package. When cake tests done, remove from oven and let cake cool in pan for 5 minutes before turning out onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in the refrigerator. Yield 8-10 slices

Enjoy!

Giveaway & Product Review - Erewhon Gluten Free Cereals

Not all gluten free cereals are created equal. Erewhon gluten free cereals are among some of the tastiest, healthy gluten free cereals I have tried. I am so excited to be hosting a giveaway for Erewhon gluten free cereals, so that you can give them a try too!

Erewhon gluten free cereals are made from only the purest, finest ingredients which are organically grown whenever possible. They use absolutely NO artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. They never use hydrogenated oils or high fructose corn syrup either. All of those benefits, and gluten free to boot... what could be better?

In addition to the yummy line up of Erewhon gluten free cereals that you may already be familiar with on the shelves of your local natural foods market, Erewhon is proud of the two new delicious flavors they recently released: Gluten Free Strawberry Crisp and Gluten Free Cocoa Crispy Brown Rice.

Here are my thoughts on the flavors that Erewhon sent me to sample for this review:

Erewhon Gluten Free Strawberry Crisp (new!): These remind me of corn flakes, with tangy peices of dehydrated strawberries throughout. I really enjoyed this particular flavor and ate nearly the whole box, much to the dismay of my family. ;-)

Erewhon Gluten Free Cocoa Crispy Brown Rice (new!): I might be giving away my age here, but when I was a little girl, Cocoa Crispies were a very popular cereal. I liked how it made "chocolate milk" in my bowl. I was pleasantly transported back to my childhood when eating these. The difference was that Erewhons version were far less sweet and MUCH healthier, which is how I prefer my cereal these days. This was my children's favorite of all of the Erewhon Cereals we tried.

Erewhon Gluten Free Crispy Brown Rice: These remind me of Rice Crispies cereal, only without gluten! I love that they are made from healthy brown rice. The biggest bonus is that they work perfectly in baked goods recipes that call for Rice Crispies cereal. :)

Erewhon Gluten Free Crispy Brown Rice with Mixed Berries: This is one of my favorites because I love the combination of dehydrated mixed berries in this cereal. My kids also love this one. Think Rice Crispies, with berries... super-good!

Erewhon Gluten Free Rice Twice: Crispy and puffed rice come together for a lightly sweetened, textural delight. This was my husband's favorite.

Erewhon Gluten Free Corn Flakes: Corn flakes like you remember, only healthier and gluten free. I love adding fresh sliced bananas to this classic cereal. What will you put on top of your Erewhon Gluten Free Corn Flakes?

U.S. Mills, the makers of Erewhon gluten free cereals is giving away the following prize package to (3) lucky Freebie Fairy subscribers:

(1) Box of Erewhon Gluten Free Strawberry Crisp Cereal (new!)

(1) Box of Erewhon Gluten Free Cocoa Crispy Brown Rice Cereal (new!)

(1) Box of Erewhon Gluten Free Corn Flakes

(1) Patagonia t-shirt

(1) Erewhon Coupon Keeper with coupons for $1.00 next purchases

TO ENTER GIVEAWAY: Visit my Freebie Fairy giveaway website and follow the easy entry instructions.

*GIVEAWAY OPEN TO US ONLY*

Giveaway ends on Wednesday December 2, 2009 at 7:00 p.m

Best of luck!

Giveaway Winner - Betty Crocker "Simple Joys" Prize Pack

The winner of the Betty Crocker Simple Joys" Prize Pack giveaway is:

*clallen*

Congratulations!

Special thanks to Betty Crocker for sponsoring this giveaway.

Gluten Free Four Ingredient Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

What could be more wonderful than a gluten free peanut butter cookie recipe that is not only delicious, but only has four ingredients and can be made from start to finish in less than 30 minutes? That is exactly what this Gluten Free Four Ingredient Flourless Peanut Butter Cookie recipe has to offer!

My kids adore Peanut Butter Cookies, so when I found this super-simple gluten free flourless peanut butter cookie recipe on Kate's Gluten Free Gobsmacked blog, I was an instant fan.

Kate has a cute way of labeling this fantastic recipe:

GF: 1+1+1+1=YUM!

Check out the easy to remember proportions of this gluten free peanut butter cookie recipe, and I'm sure you will agree that really sums it up! ;-)

Gluten Free Four Ingredient Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

1 cup peanut butter (crunchy or creamy)

1 cup granulated sugar

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Coarse decorators sugar to sprinkle on top after baking (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat all ingredients together (I used a hand mixer). Form dough into 2'' balls and place 2'' apart on a cookie sheet. Press each cookie ball with the tines of a fork in a criss-cross pattern. Bake for 9 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and sprinkle with coarse decorators sugar (if using). Allow to cool completely before removing from the cookie sheet. Yield: Approximately 1-1/2 dozen cookies

Enjoy!

Giveaway - Betty Crocker "Simple Joys" Prize Pack

Hey Moms and Dads... Betty Crocker is giving away a really yummy assortment of gluten free fruit snacks and a collection of cool, retro toys that make PERFECT stocking stuffers! One of my lucky readers will receive a Betty Crocker "Simple Joys" Prize Pack containing:

- Two packages of *Gluten Free Betty Crocker Fruit-Flavored Snacks: You can feel good about these, as they are made with real fruit and each serving is less than 100 calories! Now every kid can enjoy the simple joy of a fun, great tasting gluten free snack.

- A retro Pick ‘em Up Sticks game (my personal favorite when I was a kid!)

- A light-up yo-yo

- A classic Frisbee

*You can also print a coupon good for .50 cents off Betty Crocker fruit snacks by clicking here!!

Want to WIN the Betty Crocker Simple Joys Prize Pack for your child? Betty Crocker has kindly offered to GIVEAWAY a Simple Joys Prize Pack to (1) of my lucky readers!

TO ENTER GIVEAWAY: Visit my Freebie Fairy giveaway website and follow the easy entry instructions.

*GIVEAWAY OPEN TO US ONLY*

Giveaway ends on Sunday November 22, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. PST.

*A note to my vegetarian readers: As many of you know I am a vegetarian, but my family members are not. Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks are not a vegetarian product; I am reviewing them on behalf of my non-vegetarian/gluten free children, who enjoy eating them.

Gluten Free Chile Relleno Casserole

One taste of my Gluten Free Chile Relleno Casserole is sure to warm you up on a chilly Autumn night. This mildly spiced, extra cheesy, gluten free main dish is so comforting and easy to prepare that it shows up regularly on my dinner table. I also serve this tasty, gluten free favorite at brunch gatherings with rave reviews. Try it for yourself tonight, it is sure to become a well loved recipe in your home as well.

Gluten Free Chile Relleno Casserole

3 cans (4 ounces each) whole green chiles, drained

1 - 1/2 cups (6 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 - 1/2 cups (6 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/3 cup gluten free flour blend (I use Bette Hagman's Featherlight blend)

1 cup half-and-half cream

2 eggs, beaten

1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

1/3 package taco seasoning mix (I use Mc Cormick brand)

Split chiles open lengthwise. Rinse out seeds and place chiles on paper towels to drain. Combine cheeses; set aside 1/2 cup for topping. In a bowl, combine the gluten free flour blend, cream and eggs until smooth.

In a greased deep 1 - 1/2 quart baking dish, layer half of cheese, chiles and egg mixture. Repeat layers. Combine tomato sauce and taco seasoning mix. Pour tomato sauce mixture over the top; sprinkle with reserved cheese.

Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 55 - 65 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Yield: 4-6 servings

*Recipe adapted from Taste of Home

Enjoy!

Giveaway Winner - Aleia's Gluten Free Foods Stuffing & Cookie Giveaway

The winner of the Aleia's Gluten Free Foods Stuffing & Cookie Giveaway is:

*Chandice*

Congratulations Chandice! I am e-mailing you now. Please respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be chosen.

Special thanks to Aleia's Gluten Free Foods for sponsoring this giveaway.

Giveaway Winner - Pamela's Ultimate Wheat Free Baking & Pancake Mix

The winner of the Pamela's Ultimate Wheat Free Baking & Pancake Mix is:

*Jenniferb*

Congratulations Jenniferb! I am e-mailing you now. Please respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be chosen.

Special thanks to Pamela's Products for sponsoring this giveaway.

Product Review - Gluten Free Cafe - All Natural Frozen Fettucini Alfredo

I recently received coupons from the folks at the Celestial-Hain Group, asking me to sample and review their new line of Gluten Free Cafe All Natural Frozen Entrees. Out of the 4 available varieties I was only able to locate the Gluten Free Cafe Fettuccini Alfredo in my local grocery store; it is that which I will review today.

I was impressed with the fact that the Gluten Free Cafe frozen entrees boasts the following benefits:

Fortified 3 Ways for Your Health

Gluten Free Café is the only line of all natural frozen foods that are certified gluten free—and fortified with essential nutrients to address vitamin, mineral, and fiber deficiencies that commonly affect those following gluten-free diets.

1. B Vitamins & Iron The absence of enriched wheat flour or whole wheat flour in gluten free food products results in a loss of valuable dietary nutrients, including B Vitamins and Iron. Our Gluten Free Cafe items are enriched according to the FDA’s nutritional requirements for enriched flour and provide a good source of Iron and B Vitamins and also include Vitamins Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, and Folic Acid.

2. Fiber Since the gluten free diet relies on the replacement of fiber-rich wheat flours with other “digestive-friendly” grains, you may experience some dietary fiber loss. But not with Gluten Free Café entrees! We’ve taken care to ensure that you don’t lose the all-important benefits of fiber by adding Inulin, a non-digestible carbohydrate, to each of our delightful entrees. Since they contain Inulin, all Gluten Free Café meals provide you with the valuable qualities of fiber, while also functioning as a prebiotic to support the growth of “good” digestive tract bacteria. Plus, Inulin helps improve your body’s ability to absorb calcium – another valuable plus.

3. Vitamin D and Calcium If you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, there’s a 30% chance that you are also lactose intolerant…which means you may not be getting sufficient Vitamin D and Calcium in your diet. Deficiencies can also be caused by poor nutrient absorption, a common effect of your condition. Due to these factors, it is generally recommended that patients with gluten intolerance be screened for osteoporosis. To help ensure against deficiencies, we’ve fortified each of our Gluten Free Café entrees with Vitamin D and Calcium…in amounts equivalent to those found in an 8-ounce glass of whole milk!

All Gluten Free Café products are certified by the GFCO.

In fact, we are proud to be the only line of all natural gluten free frozen food entrees that are certified by the GFCO.

What is the “GFCO”?
The Gluten Free Certification Organization (GFCO), a program of The Gluten Intolerance Group®, supervises gluten free food production according to consistent, stringent, science-based standards to ensure safety and instill confidence in both consumers and manufacturers. Certification is rigorous, involving annual on-site facility inspection and product testing.

The Gluten Free Cafe Fettucini Alfredo entree was perfect for my young child with Celiac Disease; she is very picky and prefers simple foods, especially pasta dishes. I prepared it for her for lunch and she really enjoyed it, finishing nearly the entire thing!

Will I purchase frozen Gluten Free Cafe Fettucini Alfredo in the future? If the price point becomes a bit lower, I would definitely keep it on hand for my child for the occasional quick weekend lunch. I do appreciate the convenience that the frozen Gluten Free Cafe entrees offer my busy family.

The other Gluten Free Cafe varieties available are: Asian Noodles, Pasta Primavera (meatless), and Lemon Basil Chicken.

If you would like to try any of the Gluten Free Cafe entrees for yourself, click here to receive a coupon from their website.