Pasta Joy

Today's tip is not only for my gluten-free friends, but also for those who don't know anything about this, but should.

In case you don't know what it is, or why anyone would want to eat gluten-free -- here is the simple explanation of a complicated issue. Many people (myself included) have digestive systems that are intolerant to gluten, which is found in wheat, rye, and barley. Symptoms are wide-ranging, from mild to very serious, and because of a lack of knowledge, it has taken most people an average of 12 to 14 years to be diagnosed! Chances are someone you know and love has gluten intolerance or even full-blown celiac disease (pronounced silly-yak). You can find out more by researching online. Here's one site from the Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/celiac-disease/DS00319/DSECTION=1

In the meantime, avoiding wheat knocks a whole lot of foods out of your diet! Besides bread and pasta, gluten is hidden in things you wouldn't even think of, like soy sauce, some salad dressings, gravies, sauces, etc. But thankfully the food industry is coming around, and more and more choices are available to the gluten-free eater. Even a small amount of wheat has an effect on someone with this condition.

My favorite wheat- and gluten-free pasta is a brand called Tinkyada Pasta Joy. It is made from brown rice, comes in many different shapes, and is delicious. It is hearty and holds up well, unlike some of the other brands I've tried. Even Dear Hubby likes it, though he does not have to eat gluten-free. Oddly, I've found different shapes at different stores, never all in one place. You're most likely to find this brand at health food stores and places like Whole Foods or Central Market.

Bonus hint (this might work for whole wheat noodles also): When you have leftover noodles but no leftover sauce, freeze the extra on a cookie sheet, then keep in the freezer in a bag. This way they are frozen separately, and you can add them to soups or stews.