Growing up, I was a close observer of my aunt Deb and cousin Craig as they faced the challenges of food allergies. They both suffer from a genetic disorder called Celiac disease, making them unable to process gluten. Their Celiac disease was also accompanied by a soy allergy, and also a chosen lifestyle of vegetarianism. At the time of their 1990’s diagnosis, Celiac disease was just emerging as a recognized disorder, so there wasn’t much documentation on the matter. Support groups and forums hadn’t yet formed, making menu ideas and alternative ingredients, such as rice flour, difficult to find.
In addition to the not-so-easy task of meal planning was my aunt Deb’s desire to make these limited-ingredient meals pleasing to the pallet and, at best, flavorful. At the beginning of this process, a life without fully enjoying meals seemed to be the only available option. Aunt Deb, however, was simply not willing to accept defeat. As lifestyle and menu adjustments were made, her creativity took a new turn. She had made a monumental discovery: adding fresh herbs to virtually any dish transformed it, taking her once bland meals to a level of culinary delight that reinstilled not only her love of cooking, but a satisfaction which she thought Celiac disease had taken from her and Craig indefinitely. Today, a garden full of vegetables and fresh herbs is Aunt Deb’s main staple, and she has learned how to make allowable grains and beans part of the balance as well, for a well rounded and enjoyable gluten-free diet. If you are living the gluten-free lifestyle, whether by choice or for medical reasons, there are so many wonderful options within the world of fresh herbs! Any fresh herb can make your sweet or savory dishes come alive, so don’t lose hope in your restrictive diet if it is currently flavorless, for it shouldn’t and doesn’t have to remain that way.
 If you are looking for more information on Celiac disease, there is a great website called Celiac.com. They offer a complete definition of this condition and its diet restrictions, as well as some other helpful tips and support. If you’re ready to begin your quest for flavor with fresh herbs, we have a few recipes here on Freshherbs.com to get you started right now. Minty melon salad is a refreshing treat (especially in the summertime), a delicious olive rosemary bread, and you may also enjoy this completely gluten-free black bean and corn salad.Â
