Being gluten free means avoiding all food products that contain a protein called gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, rye, and barley. This can be a difficult lifestyle choice, depending on your diet preferences, as gluten is used as a binding agent and is found in many processed food items. However, there are many health benefits to a gluten-free diet. Going gluten free eliminates food intolerances in those with celiac disease, and can help reduce inflammation in the body. Gluten free foods include all fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, dairy, and grains such as rice, quinoa, amaranth and buckwheat. Potatoes, fish, meat, eggs and non-gluten containing starches such as tapioca and corn are also gluten free. Eating a gluten free diet can also help improve digestion, decrease cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of developing certain chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes.

Try this as your next healthier meal option to serve up for you and your loved ones:

Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons avocado oil – 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing and crumbled – 2 cloves garlic, minced – 1 large onion, diced – 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced – 2 cups cooked brown rice – 2 cups chicken stock – 1 teaspoon dried oregano – 1 teaspoon dried thyme – 1 teaspoon Kosher salt – 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper – 2 tablespoons freshly minced parsley

Instructions

1. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or dutch oven over medium-high heat. 2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. 3. Add the garlic and onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 4. Add the mushrooms and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. 5. Add the cooked rice, chicken stock, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil. 6. Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes. 7. Finally, stir in the parsley and serve. Enjoy!