Winter time calls for nourishing soups but salads are always an ideal accompaniment to warming soups, such as this intensely flavored and colorful salad. The combination of sweet beets contrasts so well with the sharp flavor of the oranges, olives, sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese. You may wish to use feta instead of the goat cheese, though you would want to be sparing with the salt and perhaps use fewer olives. The inclusion of oranges in vegetable salads is a relatively new idea for me. I was smitten with the idea when I tried some of the salads that my Dad makes. There is usually always a salad to go along with dinner with his meals. I also always recommend making your own salad dressing as it takes no time at all, you avoid all of the preservatives that are typically included in store-bought versions, and you save money too.

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Pissaladières are simple but stunning little savory pies from Provence in the south of France that are traditionally topped with little more than caramelized onions, anchovies and olives, befitting the bounties of the coastal Mediterranean region. Well, no anchovies for me, thank you, but for the sake of creativity and tastes pissaladières can also be considered a kind of pizza, even if the natives might disagree.

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One of my readers requested a version of chana saag — or chickpea and spinach curry — because she was not able to find one that pleased her palate. I did some research and came up with this most tasty version. This was my first time making it and chickpeas and spinach are always a perfect combination. My dinner guests were most pleased with the result. Don't let the number of ingredients discourage you from trying this popular Punjab dish that is really quite simple — and it is especially wonderful with corn flour roti.

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Gluten-Free Dietary Advice

Many people suffer from food allergies and intolerance to certain foods. One of the most common ailments that can strike is celiac disease which means an inability to consume products with gluten, also known as an allergy to wheat which is typically a genetic disorder though many of those who have trouble digesting gluten do not necessary have celiac disease. Celiac disease is when the absorptive surface of the small intestine is damaged due to gluten because it is unable to tolerate and absorb nutrients. It is best to consult your doctor or holistic practitioner if you are having problems with digestion related to gluten products. I myself do not suffer from this condition, but I certainly often prefer gluten-free products as they are easier to digest. Thankfully there are lots of options for those who cannot tolerate gluten and they don't have to sacrifice flavor, taste or nutrition either. Even treats can be enjoyed and markets and restaurants are finally offering up delicious alternatives. Many good quality breads are available without preservatives and wheat. Though often denser in texture, I really prefer these breads though I can eat almost anything without a face.

There are plenty of gluten-free grains that are digestible such as quinoa, rice, millet, gram flour (besan or chickpea flour), buckwheat, corn and teff which can be used as substitutes for wheat flour and consumed as side dishes or for breakfast. Oats may also be consumed, though there is some controversy whether or not oats are acceptable and it seems it would depend on the individual and whether cross-contamination occurs during processing of the oats. Oats should be pure and uncontaminated. It is important to check labels when buying processed food, but sometimes the labels are not always accurate unfortunately, so it is best to go with a trusted grocer and avoid processed foods as much as possible.

Other important sources of gluten-free foods include beans and legumes, the grains I have mentioned above and natural sources of sweeteners such as honey and sugar, such as xylitol. Fruits, vegetables, meats and most dairy products are also a healthy choice that won't upset the system. Most oils are also suitable and healthy for those afflicted with celiac disease. Feel free to spice up your dishes too.

I will offer up a few of my own gluten-free recipes to my readers:
Gluten-Free Honey, Lemon, Poppy Seed Cake
Chocolate Cocoa Brownies with Dried Cranberries and Chickpea Flour
Makki Di Roti (Griddle Cooked Corn Bread)
Spicy Quinoa Nut Loaf
Quinoa Soup with Corn

Some resources you may want to check for more information and recipes for those suffering from gluten-free allergies:
Diet, Desserts and Dogs
Gluten-Free Goddess
Simply Sugar and Gluten-Free
Wheat Free Meat Free