Healthy Gluten-Free Spring Recipes to Brighten Your Plate

Spring is in the air, bringing with it fresh produce and an abundance of flavors. For those following a gluten-free diet, the season offers an array of delectable options that nourish the body and delight the taste buds. Here are some healthy gluten-free spring recipes to inspire your culinary adventures:

1. Vibrant Spring Salad with Grilled Chicken

Ingredients:

* 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
* 1 cup grilled chicken, sliced
* 1/2 cup strawberries, halved
* 1/2 cup asparagus, blanched
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
* Dressing: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, grilled chicken, strawberries, asparagus, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle with goat cheese and enjoy.

2. Refreshing Lemon-Blueberry Smoothie

Ingredients:

* 1 cup frozen blueberries
* 1/2 cup coconut milk
* 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon honey
* Optional: 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. If desired, stir in chia seeds and let sit for 5 minutes before drinking.

3. Asparagus and Snap Pea Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

* 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 pound snap peas, trimmed and halved
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons honey

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the asparagus and snap peas and stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and honey and cook for 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve immediately.

4. Gluten-Free Pizza with Spring Vegetables

Ingredients:

* 1 gluten-free pizza crust
* 1/2 cup marinara sauce
* 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
* 1/4 cup asparagus, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup zucchini, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the pizza crust.
3. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and arrange the asparagus, zucchini, and red onion on top.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Creamy Avocado and Pea Toast

Ingredients:

* 4 slices gluten-free bread, toasted
* 1 ripe avocado, mashed
* 1/4 cup frozen peas, thawed
* 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
* 1 teaspoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toast slices.
2. Top with the thawed peas, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Enjoy as a light and refreshing snack or breakfast.

These gluten-free spring recipes offer a burst of flavor and nutrition to your seasonal menu. From vibrant salads to refreshing smoothies and hearty stir-fries, there's something to satisfy every taste and dietary restriction. Embrace the season's bounty and enjoy these delicious and nourishing dishes.