Nature's Gluten-free Foods: 5 Ways To Enjoy Fruit Salad

Sometimes we concentrate so hard on figuring out ways to make delicious gluten-free foods and desserts that we forget about the foods that are delicious and gluten-free naturally. Take fruit for instance. Fruit is great without any help, and if you take the time to cut it up and have it available, there are lots of ways to enrich your menu. Here are my suggestions:

1. The Basic: Fruit salad makes a great side to any meal. Just cut up your favorite fruits, toss, and serve in a pretty fruit bowl.

2. The Smoothie: Spoon your fruit salad into the blender with a tablespoon or two of flax seed, which will give you staying power for breakfast or pick you up during that "afternoon slump."

3. The Decadent: Add shredded coconut and a bit of honey, agave, or maple syrup for a healthy dessert or when your kids beg for something sweet.

4. The Whimsical: Drain your fruit well and add to your favorite jello! If it is not already in your fruit salad, a little canned pineapple would be a great addition. You may also need to reduce the water a bit so the jello firms up enough.

5. The Gourmet: How about a fruit salad salad? Add your fruit to watercress (or a mixed lettuce blend) with a handful of raisins along with the following vinaigrette:

Blueberry Balsamic Vinaigrette

1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon Balsamic or Red Wine Vinegar
2 tablespoons Blueberries fresh (like from your fruit salad) or frozen
2 teaspoons Agave Nectar or Honey
Pinch of Garlic Powder (optional)
Salt to taste

Place it all in a blender, puree, and enjoy!

* Photo by Pink Sherbet Photography:
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