CELIAC BLOG:💚

💚 Celiac awareness matters because understanding can lead to earlier diagnosis, safer choices, greater compassion, and stronger support for every Celiac Warrior.

Why Awareness Matters

Awareness matters because so many people are still learning what celiac disease actually means.

It's understanding that:

Gluten exposure can cause an immune response.
“Just a little bit” isn't necessarily safe.
Cross-contact matters.
Reading ingredient labels is important.
Eating out can require extra planning and questions.
Living gluten-free can sometimes feel isolating.
Support and understanding from family and friends can make a huge difference.

The Celiac Disease Foundation estimates that more than 3 million Americans are living with celiac disease, with many still undiagnosed.

Living with celiac disease has taught me so much about advocating for myself, listening to my body, being intentional about what I eat, and giving myself grace along the way.

There are days when navigating a gluten-free life feels easy—and there are days when it can feel exhausting.

There are restaurant menus to navigate, labels to read, questions to ask, ingredients to double-check, and situations where you have to explain why something that seems “small” to someone else actually matters so much to you.

I've learned that taking care of myself isn't something I should apologize for.

I've learned that asking questions isn't being difficult.

I've learned that protecting my health is an act of self-care.

And I've learned that I don't have to navigate this journey alone.

For me, my faith is also part of my journey.

There are moments when living with a chronic condition can be frustrating, overwhelming, or simply exhausting. But I've learned to bring those moments to God, trusting Him through the things I understand—and the things I don't.

Keep advocating. Keep learning. Keep taking care of yourself. And remember—you are stronger than you realize.

💚Celiac Strong

Grocery shopping suddenly became stressful, eating out felt impossible, and every invitation to a party or family gathering came with anxiety.

If you've ever felt that way too, I want you to know something:

Living gluten-free isn't always easy, but it does become more manageable with time, knowledge, and a little preparation. Today I'm sharing a few things that have helped me navigate life as someone with Celiac disease while still enjoying food, travel, friendships, and everyday moments.

💚I like to shop at Sprouts & Target. It’s Expensive though.

I want to explore more at Trader Joe’s to see what they have for Gf options.

What is some GF must - haves from Trader Joe’s?

What about Cosco’s? Is it worth it?

Read Every Label

Even foods that seem naturally gluten-free can contain hidden gluten.

The more you read labels, the easier it becomes.

Create a Safe Kitchen

Cross-contamination is one of the biggest challenges for people with Celiac disease.

Helpful swaps include:

• Separate toaster

• Dedicated butter and peanut butter

• Color-coded cutting boards

• Separate wooden utensils

• Gluten-free flour stored away from regular flour

Small changes make a huge difference.

Plan Ahead Before Eating Out

Before visiting a restaurant:

• Check the menu online.

• Read recent gluten-free reviews.

• Call ahead if needed.

• Tell your server you have Celiac disease—not just a gluten preference.

• Ask how food is prepared.

Advocating for yourself isn't being difficult—it's protecting your health.

Keep Emergency Snacks With You

Having safe snacks prevents those moments when you're hungry and have no safe options.

Asking Questions

It's okay to ask:

• Is the fryer shared?

• Are gloves changed?

• Is there a separate prep area?

• Does the sauce contain wheat?

Your health matters.

"Your body is a gift from God. Caring for it is an act of gratitude, not perfection."

A Celiac-Friendly Recipe Guide Feat Giadzy

Simple Italian-inspired meals, gluten-free ingredients, and a little coastal comfort — made with love for your table.

Living with celiac disease has taught me to be more intentional about what goes on my plate. But gluten-free living doesn't mean giving up the joy of cooking, gathering around the table, or enjoying beautiful Italian-inspired meals.

This guide features Giadzy products and gluten-free recipe inspiration for easy weeknight dinners, comforting pasta dishes, and flavorful meals made with simple ingredients.

Whether you're navigating celiac disease, cooking for someone who needs to eat gluten-free, or simply looking for fresh meal inspiration, I hope this guide brings a little joy to your kitchen.

My goal is to make gluten-free cooking feel less overwhelming and a whole lot more enjoyable. I'll be sharing recipes, pantry favorites, and products that make creating delicious meals easier — with celiac safety always in mind.

Giadzy offers several gluten-free pasta shapes made with non-GMO corn flour, rice flour, and water. The brand identifies these pastas as produced in a gluten-free facility and suitable for people with celiac disease.

GF Recipes to Add:

Three simple, Italian-inspired recipes to pair with your Giadzy gluten-free pasta picks.

1. Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta

30 minutes · Easy dinner

A bright, creamy pasta with fresh lemon, garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of olive oil.

Giadzy pairing: Gluten-Free Casarecce

Ingredients

• 8 oz Giadzy Gluten-Free Casarecce

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan

• Zest and juice of ½ lemon

• Salt, pepper, and fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

2. Warm olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.

3. Add cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, and a splash of pasta water.

4. Toss in the cooked pasta. Add lemon juice, season, and garnish with parsley.

Celiac Warrior tip: Check the labels on your cream, Parmesan, and seasonings, and use clean, gluten-free prep tools.

Shop the pasta: Giadzy Casarecce → 

2. Cozy Gluten-Free Italian Baked Pasta

40 minutes · Family favorite

A comforting, cheesy baked pasta with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and Italian herbs.

Giadzy pairing: Gluten-Free Taccole Corte

Ingredients

• 8 oz Giadzy Gluten-Free Taccole Corte

• 2 cups gluten-free marinara sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ¼ cup Parmesan

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Fresh basil, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta until just shy of al dente.

2. Combine pasta with marinara and Italian seasoning.

3. Transfer to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.

4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly. Finish with fresh basil.

Celiac Warrior tip: Verify the marinara and seasoning labels and avoid shared colanders or utensils that have touched wheat pasta.

Gluten-Free Stelline Soup w. chicken

3. Cozy Italian Gluten-Free Stelline Soup

25 minutes · Comfort food

A warm, soothing bowl of tiny pasta stars, vegetables, broth, and Parmesan — perfect for a cozy night in.

Giadzy pairing: Gluten-Free Stelline

Ingredients

• 1 cup Giadzy Gluten-Free Stelline

• 4 cups gluten-free chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 small carrot, finely diced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ¼ cup Parmesan

• Salt, pepper, and fresh parsley

  🛒 Ingredients w. Chicken

  • 1–1½ lbs chicken tenderloins

  • 1 package gluten-free stelline pasta

  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 6 cups gluten-free chicken broth

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1–2 handfuls fresh baby spinach, optional

  • Fresh parsley, for serving

  • Grated Parmesan, optional

  • Fresh lemon juice, optional

  Step 1 — Cook the Chicken

  Pat the chicken tenderloins dry and season them lightly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

  Heat about 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

  Add the chicken tenderloins and cook for approximately 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and the thickest part reaches 165°F.

  Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and allow it to rest for several minutes. Chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

  🥕Step 2 — Sauté the Vegetables

  Add another drizzle of olive oil to the same pot if needed.

  Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

  Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.

  🍲Step 3 — Build the Soup

  Pour in the gluten-free chicken broth.

  Add the Italian seasoning, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and all those cozy flavors to come together.

  ⭐Step 4 — Add the Gluten-Free Stelline

  Bring the broth back to a gentle boil and add the gluten-free stelline pasta.

  Cook according to the package directions, stirring frequently. Gluten-free pasta can sometimes stick together, so give those tiny stars a little extra attention! ⭐

  🍗Step 5 — Add the Chicken Back In

  Once the stelline is almost tender, return the chopped or shredded chicken to the pot.

  If you're adding spinach, stir it in now as well.

  Allow everything to simmer together for another 2–3 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the spinach has wilted.

  If the soup becomes thicker than you'd like, simply add a little more gluten-free chicken broth.

  🌿Step 6 — Finish & Serve

  Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

  For a little brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

  Spoon into your favorite cozy soup bowls and finish with fresh parsley and Parmesan, if desired.

  Serve warm and enjoy! 🍂

🌿 More Giadzy Recipes to Add

Here are some of the ones I’d consider for your guide:

• Gluten-Free Sheet Pan Layerless Lasagna — a fun, cheesy sheet-pan version of lasagna using Giadzy gluten-free pasta.

• One-Pan Gluten-Free Meatball & Pastina Skillet — an easy comfort-food option.

• Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup — cozy and hearty, especially for cooler months.

• Gluten-Free Pistachio Olive Oil Cake — a great dessert option.

• Gluten-Free Strawberry Peach Crumble — perfect for a summer/early-fall recipe section.

• Polenta Alla Caprese — naturally gluten-free ingredients make this another recipe worth exploring.

• Rice Stuffed Tomatoes — a naturally gluten-free Italian-inspired meal.

• Sicilian Potato Salad (Insalata Vastasa) — naturally gluten-free and a nice side dish.

• Raffy's Chicken and Rice — another naturally gluten-free meal option.

• Roman-Style Chicken — a simple protein-focused option.

• Roasted Chicken Thighs with Cannellini Beans — hearty and naturally gluten-free.

• Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Veggies — an easy weeknight dinner.

• Roasted Orange Chicken Thighs with Artichoke and Fennel — another flavorful dinner option.

• Tuscan Turkey Soup — a cozy soup option.

• Zucchini Lasagna Rolls — a great pasta-free alternative.

• Grilled Eggplant and Goat Cheese Salad — lighter Mediterranean-style option.

• Antipasti Caprese Salad — simple and naturally gluten-free.

• Caprese Salad — an easy summer staple.

• Fava Bean Salad — another naturally gluten-free option.

Celiac Warrior tip: Broth and seasoning blends can contain hidden gluten or cross-contact risks. Choose products labeled gluten-free and verify their ingredients.

→ From gluten-free pasta nights to cozy Italian-inspired meals, shop the Giadzy finds featured in my recipes. These are products to explore as you build a gluten-free pantry with confidence.

🍅🌿Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup

Celiac-Friendly Italian Comfort Food

There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a cozy fall evening.

🍂 This Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup has everything I love about traditional lasagna—rich tomato flavor, Italian sausage, tender pasta, Parmesan, creamy ricotta, and fresh herbs—all in one comforting bowl.

The best part? It can be made completely gluten-free with carefully selected ingredients, making it a delicious addition to my Celiac kitchen. 💚

This version is inspired by Giadzy's Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup, with my own cozy touch: a splash of heavy cream at the end for an extra creamy finish.

🛒 Ingredients

Made in a 5-Quart Dutch Oven

Serves: Approximately 4–5
Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: Approximately 35–45 minutes
Dutch Oven: 5-quart

Because we're using a 5-quart Dutch oven, this recipe is sized to leave enough room for the pasta to expand and for you to stir everything comfortably.

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• ¾–1-pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, diced

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 (14-ounce) cans whole Italian tomatoes, including their juices

• 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth

• 1½ cups chopped Tuscan kale

• 1 Parmesan rind, optional

• 6–8 ounces gluten-free lasagna-style or ruffled pasta

• ¼ cup heavy whipping cream

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan

• Handful of fresh basil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional

🤍 Ricotta Topping

• ¾ cup whole-milk ricotta

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan

• Pinch of salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Small drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, optional

👩🏼‍🍳 Cooking Instructions

1. Make the Ricotta Topping 🧀

In a small bowl, combine:

¾ cup ricotta + ¼ cup Parmesan + pinch of salt + black pepper.

Mix until creamy.

Cover and place in the refrigerator while you prepare the soup.

2. Brown the Sausage

Place your 5-quart Dutch oven over medium heat.

Add 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Add the Italian sausage and break it apart with a wooden spoon.

Cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, or until completely browned and cooked through.

If there's a large amount of grease, carefully remove some before continuing.

3. Sauté the Vegetables 🥕🧅

Add the:

• Onion

• Carrot

• Celery

Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

You want the vegetables to begin softening without browning too much.

Add the minced garlic.

Cook for another 30–60 seconds, just until you can smell that beautiful garlic aroma. 🧄

4. Add the Tomatoes 🍅

Pour both cans of tomatoes and their juices into your Dutch oven.

Use your wooden spoon to gently break the whole tomatoes into smaller pieces.

Allow everything to cook together for about 2 minutes.

5. Add the Broth 🌿

Pour in 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth.

Add:

• Chopped kale

• Parmesan rind, if using

• Black pepper

• Small pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired

Stir everything together.

Important 5-Quart Tip

Don't add extra broth yet.

Your Dutch oven needs room for the gluten-free pasta to expand.

You can always thin the soup with additional broth later.

6. Simmer the Soup 🍲

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and partially cover.

Allow it to simmer for approximately 10–15 minutes.

Stir occasionally.

This gives the tomatoes, sausage, vegetables, Parmesan, and broth time to develop their flavor.

🍝 7. Add the Gluten-Free Pasta

Add 6 ounces of gluten-free pasta first.

If your Dutch oven still has plenty of room, you can increase it toward 8 ounces.

Stir immediately so the pasta doesn't stick together.

Cook according to the pasta package directions, usually around 8–12 minutes depending on the pasta.

Stir frequently.

Start checking your pasta a couple of minutes before the package's suggested cooking time.

Gluten-free pasta can go from perfectly al dente to overly soft fairly quickly.

🤍 8. Add the Heavy Cream

Once the pasta is al dente, reduce the heat to LOW.

Remove the Parmesan rind.

Pour in:

¼ cup heavy whipping cream

Stir gently.

Let the soup warm for another 2–3 minutes.

Don't bring it back to a hard boil.

If you want it creamier, you can add another tablespoon or two of heavy cream.

9. Finish with Parmesan & Basil

🌿🤍

Stir in:

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan

• A generous handful of chopped fresh basil

Taste your soup.

Add salt and black pepper as needed.

If the soup has become thicker than you'd like, add ½ cup additional gluten-free chicken broth, a little at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency.

🥣Build Your Bowl

Ladle the hot lasagna soup into your favorite bowl.

Top with:

🤍 A generous spoonful of your ricotta mixture
🧀 Freshly grated Parmesan
🌿 Fresh basil
🌶️ Red pepper flakes
🫒 Small drizzle of olive oil

Let the ricotta slowly melt into the warm tomato broth as you eat.

So good. 🤍

🍅5-Quart Dutch Oven Formula

For an easy reference:

¾–1 lb sausage
28 oz tomatoes
4 cups broth
1½ cups kale
6–8 oz GF pasta
¼ cup heavy cream
¼ cup Parmesan
¾ cup ricotta topping

This should give you a hearty pot of soup while leaving enough space in your 5-quart Dutch oven to stir everything safely.

🥣 Time to Serve!

Ladle the warm lasagna soup into your favorite cozy soup bowls.

Top each bowl with:

As the ricotta begins melting into the warm tomato broth, the soup becomes extra creamy and gives you those comforting lasagna flavors in every spoonful.

When cooking for Celiac Disease, I don't rely solely on a recipe being naturally gluten-free. I check the labels of every packaged ingredient I use.

For this recipe, pay particular attention to:

✓ Italian sausage
✓ Chicken broth
✓ Gluten-free pasta
✓ Heavy whipping cream
✓ Ricotta
✓ Parmesan
✓ Canned tomatoes
✓ Seasonings and spice blends

Ingredient formulas and manufacturing practices can change, so always check the packaging you're actually using.

⚠️ Don't Forget Cross-Contact

Use clean cookware, utensils, cutting boards, measuring cups, and preparation surfaces.

Be especially careful with wooden utensils, strainers/colanders, shared butter, grated cheeses, and other kitchen items that may have previously come into contact with gluten.

🍝 Leftover Tip

If you're intentionally making enough for leftovers, consider cooking the gluten-free pasta separately.

Store the pasta and soup in separate airtight containers and combine them when reheating.

Gluten-free pasta tends to absorb broth as it sits, so this little trick can help keep your leftover soup from becoming overly thick and keep the pasta from getting too soft.

🍂Cozy Fall Serving Idea

Pair your bowl with:

🥖 Warm gluten-free garlic bread
🥗 A simple Italian salad
🕯️ Your favorite fall candle
📖 A cozy romance novel

Living with Celiac Disease has taught me that gluten-free food doesn't have to feel like you're missing out.

Sometimes it's about taking those comforting meals you love and finding a way to make them work for your gluten-free lifestyle.

Warm. Cozy. Comforting. And made with a little extra love. 🍅🌿🤍

Giadzy by Giada De Laurentiis

Slovak: My roots

One of my favorite ways to explore heritage is through food.

Traditional Slovak cuisine is often hearty, comforting, and rooted in simple ingredients.

🥔 Potatoes
🥬 Sauerkraut
🥩 Pork
🧀 Sheep's cheese
🥚 Eggs
🧅 Onions
🧄 Garlic
🌿 Herbs
🍎 Apples

Traditional dishes such as bryndzové halušky, kapustnica, lokše, potato pancakes, and various meat and sauerkraut dishes offer a taste of Slovakia's agricultural and regional traditions.

For my Celiac journey, I'm learning how these traditional recipes can be adapted into delicious gluten-free versions while still honoring their cultural roots.

My Slovak roots are one small part of the story that makes me who I am—and I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn more about them.

Na zdravie!

Cheers to heritage, family, traditions, and discovering where we come from.

🌻

🇸🇰 GF Slovak Foods Guide

Slovak food is full of hearty, comforting flavors—potatoes, sauerkraut, cheese, meats, soups, and delicious baked treats.

Living with Celiac disease doesn't mean you have to miss out on traditional foods or the flavors connected to family and heritage. With a few thoughtful substitutions and careful attention to cross-contact, many Slovak favorites can be adapted to be gluten-free.

A little reminder for my fellow Celiac Warriors: Traditional recipes aren't automatically gluten-free. Always check every packaged ingredient, seasoning, broth, sausage, and cheese, and prepare your food using gluten-free utensils and surfaces when needed.

Traditional dish: Potato dumplings topped with bryndza sheep's cheese and crispy bacon.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

Instead of traditional wheat flour, make the potato dumplings with a certified gluten-free flour blend.

You’ll need:

• Potatoes

• Gluten-free all-purpose flour

• Egg

• Salt

• Bryndza cheese

• Bacon

Tip: Gluten-free dough can behave differently from traditional halušky dough, so add the flour gradually until you get the right consistency.

Celiac Check: Verify that your flour, bacon, and cheese are gluten-free and avoid shared cooking water or utensils used for regular wheat dumplings.

🇸🇰 Slovak Chicken Schnitzel

Bezlepkový Kurací Rezeň

Chicken schnitzel, or kurací rezeň, is a familiar Central European comfort food and can be made gluten-free by replacing traditional wheat flour and breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free alternatives. A Slovak gluten-free recipe source specifically gives chicken breast as an option for bezlepkový rezeň and uses rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Ingredients — Serves 4

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ½ cup certified gluten-free rice flour

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup certified gluten-free breadcrumbs

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika

• ¼ tsp garlic powder — optional

• Neutral cooking oil for frying

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Prepare the chicken
Place each chicken breast between pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound until evenly thin.

2. Season
Season both sides with salt, pepper and paprika.

3. Create your gluten-free breading station

Place three shallow dishes on the counter:

Dish 1: Gluten-free rice flour
Dish 2: Beaten eggs
Dish 3: Certified gluten-free breadcrumbs

Dip each piece of chicken into the rice flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken so they adhere. This three-step method is also used in a Slovak gluten-free rezeň recipe.

4. Fry

Heat fresh oil in a clean skillet. Fry the chicken until golden and cooked through, turning once.

For a celiac-friendly kitchen, use fresh oil that has not previously been used to fry gluten-containing breaded foods. Shared frying oil is a recognized source of gluten cross-contact.

5. Drain

Place the schnitzel on a clean paper towel-lined plate.

🥔 Serve It the Slovak Way

Pair your gluten-free chicken schnitzel with:

• 🥔 Boiled potatoes with butter and parsley

• 🥒 Slovak cucumber salad

• 🥬 Sauerkraut

• 🥔 Potato salad

• 🍋 Fresh lemon

• 🌿 Fresh parsley

Gluten-Free Kapustnica

Kapustnica is a traditional Slovak sauerkraut soup that's especially popular during Christmas.

Ingredients

• Sauerkraut

• Potatoes

• Onion

• Garlic

• Smoked sausage or kielbasa

• Paprika

• Caraway seeds

• Gluten-free broth

• Marjoram

• Salt and pepper

Simmer everything together until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have come together.

Celiac Check: Sausage and broth are two ingredients where hidden gluten can sometimes appear. Read the label carefully.

Roasted Pork with Sauerkraut & Potatoes

This is one of the easiest Slovak-inspired meals to make naturally gluten-free.

Simple Plate

Roasted pork + potatoes + sauerkraut

Season pork with:

• Garlic

• Paprika

• Caraway

• Salt

• Pepper

Roast until cooked through and serve with boiled or roasted potatoes and sauerkraut.

Celiac Check: Keep the seasoning blends and any gravy gluten-free.

Gluten-Free Lokše

Lokše are traditional Slovak potato flatbreads.

Traditional lokše are generally made with flour, so you'll want to substitute a gluten-free flour blend.

Basic Gluten-Free Version

• Cooked potatoes

• Gluten-free flour

• Salt

Mash the potatoes, combine with flour and salt, roll into thin rounds, and cook on a dry skillet.

They can be served savory with meat or cheese—or sweet with butter and cinnamon sugar.

Slovak Potato Pancakes

Potato pancakes are a wonderful way to enjoy Slovak flavors while keeping things simple.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

Combine:

• Grated potatoes

• Egg

• Gluten-free flour

• Garlic

• Marjoram

• Salt and pepper

Pan-fry until crispy and golden.

Serve with sour cream or another gluten-free topping of your choice.

Gluten-Free Slovak Apple Strudel

Apple strudel is another classic that can be adapted using certified gluten-free pastry dough or gluten-free phyllo-style dough.

Fill with:

• Apples

• Cinnamon

• Sugar

• Raisins

• Gluten-free breadcrumbs, if desired

Bake until golden and serve warm.

Slovak Bean Soup

Fazuľová Polievka

A hearty bean soup is another wonderful gluten-free option.

Try:

• White beans

• Potatoes

• Carrots

• Onion

• Garlic

• Paprika

• Gluten-free smoked sausage, optional

• Gluten-free broth

Skip traditional flour-thickening methods and use potatoes or a certified gluten-free thickener instead.

Slovak Apple & Poppy Seed Dessert

Poppy seeds are frequently used in Slovak baking, making them a wonderful ingredient for a gluten-free heritage dessert.

Try combining:

• Apples

• Ground poppy seeds

• Cinnamon

• Sugar or honey

• Gluten-free oats or flour

• Butter

You could make this into a rustic Slovak Apple Poppy Seed Crumble.

Makový Koláč

Slovak Poppy Seed Cake

Poppy-seed desserts are an important part of Central European baking. For your Celiac Warrior version, use a certified gluten-free flour blend.

You can also make a naturally flourless version using:

• Ground poppy seeds

• Eggs

• Sugar

• Butter

• Lemon zest

• Vanilla

There are gluten-free Slovak recipes for poppy-seed cakes and pastries documented by Celiakia.sk.

Slovak Potato Pancakes

A simple potato pancake can be adapted with:

• Grated potatoes

• Egg

• Gluten-free flour

• Garlic

• Marjoram

• Salt and pepper

Serve with sour cream or a gluten-free topping of your choice.

When recreating my Slovak favorites, gluten-free isn't just about changing the flour. It's about protecting the whole kitchen.

✔️ Choose ingredients specifically labeled gluten-free when possible.
✔️ Check broth, sausage, bacon, spice blends and sauces.
✔️ Use clean pots, pans, utensils and cutting boards.
✔️ Don't share pasta water with gluten-containing pasta.
✔️ Avoid shared flour, crumbs and cooking surfaces.
✔️ Verify packaged dairy and specialty ingredients.
✔️ When traveling in Slovakia, communicate clearly that you have celiac disease and need a gluten-free meal.

Celiakia.sk, a Slovak celiac resource, notes that basic gluten-free foods are available in Slovak supermarkets and specialty shops and recommends using a gluten-free restaurant card when eating out.

🌻

Remember: naturally gluten-free doesn't always mean safe from cross-contact, and packaged ingredients can contain unexpected gluten.

Before making a Slovak recipe, I check:

☐ Is the flour certified gluten-free?
☐ Is the broth gluten-free?
☐ Is the sausage gluten-free?
☐ Are spice blends gluten-free?
☐ Are sauces and condiments gluten-free?
☐ Are breadcrumbs gluten-free?
☐ Are cooking surfaces and utensils free from cross-contact?
☐ Am I using fresh, clean cooking water and equipment?

🇸🇰 A Little Piece of Home

“My Slovak roots are more than recipes—they're a connection to family, tradition, and where I come from. Living with celiac disease has changed the way I experience food, but it hasn't taken away my ability to celebrate my heritage. I'm learning how to recreate the flavors of Slovakia in a way that allows me to enjoy them safely.

How Not To Die By: Michael Greger , MD w. Gene Stone

Food as Medicine

Whole-Food, Plant-Based Living

Doctor-Backed Advice

Evidence-Based Research

Disease Prevention

Lifestyle Transformation

Nutrition for Longevity

Natural Wellness

Educational Nonfiction

Healthy Habits

Celiac Disease and Living Gluten Free By: Jules E. Dowler Shepard

Celiac Disease Awareness

Gluten-Free Living

Healthy Lifestyle

Gluten-Free Recipes

Gluten-Free Shopping Guide

Beginner-Friendly Guide

Living with Chronic Illness

Health & Wellness

Safe Food Choices

Reading Food Labels

Educational Nonfiction

Managing Autoimmune Disease

Gut Health

Self-Care & Wellness

Family-Friendly Resource

Nutrition Education

Living Gluten-Free Everywhere

Practical Everyday Tips

Jennifers Way: my journey with Celiac Disease

Celebrations By: Danielle Walker

Eat what you love By: Danielle Walker

Healthy in a hurry By: Danielle Walker

The Everything Gluten-free & Dairy Free Cookbook

The Gut- Friendly Cookbook By: Alana Scott

True Comfort By: Kristin Cavallari

True Roots By: Kristin Cavallari

🌿Gut Health

Your digestive system does so much more than digest food.

A healthy gut helps with:

• Nutrient absorption

• Energy levels

• Immune function

• Overall digestive health

• Daily well-being

For those of us with Celiac disease, following a strict gluten-free diet is essential to allow the small intestine to heal and reduce ongoing damage. While there's no quick fix, consistent gluten avoidance and a balanced diet can support recovery over time.

Fav GF Foods

Some staples you'll always find in my kitchen include:

• Fresh strawberries

• Blueberries

• Bananas

• Honey crisp apples

• Grapes

• Pineapple

• Avocados

• Sweet potatoes

• Cottage Cheese

• Grilled chicken

• Steak

• Eggs

• Greek yogurt (if tolerated)

• Rice

• Fresh Salads

• Fresh herbs

Simple ingredients often create the most satisfying meals.

Celiac Tips:

Planning ahead helps me enjoy the moment with less stress.

Living well with Celiac disease isn't only about food.

It's about creating a lifestyle that supports every part of who we are.

For me, that looks like:

• Moving my body

• Resting without guilt

• Choosing nourishing foods

• Practicing gratitude

• Extending grace to myself on hard days

Healing is a journey, and every small step matters.

Celiac Essentials:

• Alkaline Water- I also add Celtic salt w/ Crystal Light

• Gluten-free snacks

• Pimple Patches

• Chamomile Tea / Digestive Awakening Tea / Peppermint Tea

• Slippery Elm

• Dairy / Gluten digestive aid

• Digestive Enzyme

• Heating Pad

• Migraine Cold head cap

Give Yourself Grace

There may be days when you feel frustrated.

You may miss favorite foods.

You may feel left out at birthdays, holidays, or work lunches.

Those feelings are valid.

Remember that caring for your body is an act of stewardship. Every safe meal is one more step toward healing and feeling your best.

Find Your GF Favs

One of the fun parts of this journey is discovering new brands and recipes.

Keep a list of foods you love so grocery shopping becomes easier over time.

Eventually, you'll have favorite breads, pastas, desserts, snacks, and restaurants that make life feel much more normal.

Build a Supportive Community

Whether it's family, friends, online groups, or fellow Celiac warriors, having people who understand your journey makes all the difference.

Don't be afraid to share your experiences—you never know who needs encouragement.

Remember That Healing Takes Time

Your body has been through a lot.

Healing doesn't happen overnight, but every gluten-free choice is an investment in your future health.

Celebrate the little victories:

• More energy

• Better digestion

• Clearer thinking

• Improved lab work

• Feeling stronger each month

Living with Celiac disease has taught me that strength isn't about never facing challenges—it's about trusting God through them.

There are days when this journey feels difficult, but I've learned that God provides exactly what we need, one day at a time.

My diagnosis changed the way I eat, but it also changed the way I appreciate my health, my body, and God's provision.

If you're walking this road too, I hope you know you're not walking it alone.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for creating our bodies with such incredible purpose. Give us wisdom as we care for our health, patience when this journey feels difficult, and peace when we feel discouraged. Help us remember that You are with us in every grocery trip, every restaurant visit, and every challenge we face. Strengthen our hearts and remind us that our hope is always found in You.

Amen.

What's one gluten-free product or tip that has made your Celiac journey easier?

Share it in the comments so we can encourage one another and help build a supportive community.

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