Fun fact: when I first started my blog, it was called “FoodFashionChaos.” Why? I wanted to share a bit of fashion, a bit of my chaotic life (which was law school at the time) and a LOT of recipes!
As a life-long vegetarian with Celiac disease (no gluten allowed!) I get asked alllllll the time what I eat. But, it’s usually like “OMG! WHAT DO YOU EAT??? LETTUCE?!” I also have met several people who are discovering they have gluten sensitivities or are trying to limit their gluten intake for general health reasons. I was getting asked to share recipes all the time, so I started a blog to make it easier to share and help people trying to go vegetarian or gluten-free!
I want to start sharing some basic, everyday recipes that don’t break the bank. One of the most common misconceptions with going vegetarian and/or gluten free is that you have to spend a ton more money at the grocery store. That’s simply not true! The trick? Getting back to basics – not spending a fortune on prepackaged, overpriced gluten-free food.
Today, I’m sharing my favorite vegan, gluten-free mediterranean salad that is super cheap and quick and easy to make! No overpriced gluten-free salad dressing, no overpriced manufactured gluten-free croutons – just the basics.
What you need:
- Chard, Kale, Spinach Greens Mix
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Pitted Kalamata Olives
- 1 Can Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)
- Pepperoncinis (optional)
- Olive Oil
- Red Wine Vinegar
- Garlic Powder
- Crushed Red Pepper
- Pink Himalayan Salt or Sea Salt
- Oregano
Start by heating about 2 tbsp. olive oil in a skillet on medium heat. Add one can drained chickpeas. Cook until browned and slightly crispy with garlic powder, crushed red pepper, salt, and oregano. In a bowl, combine greens, sliced cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, pitted kalamata olives and top with the hot, crispy seasoned chickpeas (the perfect GF crouton replacement!). In a small bowl, stir one part olive oil and one part red wine vinegar with garlic powder, oregano and salt. Drizzle on top for your dressing. Add a couple pepperoncinis if you like a little spice! Enjoy!
