The Celiathlete

March 7, 2012

Anthem 5K Fitness Classic – Louisville KY (March 3, 2012)

Sprinting through the start of the Anthem 5K Fitness Classic - Downtown Louisville, Kentucky

Race: Anthem 5K Fitness Classic

Place: Downtown Louisville, KY

Date: March 3, 2012

Time: 25:33

So, it finally happened. I finally set a new PR for a 5K race. And, believe it or not, it once again happened while running a race in downtown Louisville, Kentucky. My previous PR was set at the Louisville Komen Race for the Cure back in October 2011.

It was, by no means, a large margin of time that I beat it by. But it was a full 26 seconds, which, in a road race…is awesome!

During the week, the weather had been absolutely stunning. We were in the 60s most of the days. But then came Friday, the day before the race, and things got a little crazy. That morning we were greeted with some heavy rain. But it moved out of the area rather quickly. That being said, on lunch, I darted down to Louisville Slugger Field to pick up my race packet so it was one less line to stand in on race morning and one less thing to worry about. That was an easy trip. Over and back in record time.

Then, that afternoon, a storm front moved through. Crazy storms. Strong winds. Hard rain. Tornadoes touched down in some areas. Most of the people in my office scattered like leaves in the wind when they heard of the potential for tornadoes. My opinion still stands. If there is a tornado near where I live…why hop in my car and go toward it? Myself, my roommate, and the receptionist stuck it out at the office during the worst of it. We got strong winds and hard rain, but not much else.

Of course, the storm brought a nice cold front with it, which meant my mild weather was gone again. Right in time for race morning. Because that is Mother Nature’s mojo this winter. Nice weekdays…freezing weekends. Why? Because I slip into running shorts and race. It’s a cruel joke, really, since I hate cold weather.

That being said, it was in the low 30s that morning when I put on my running shorts and sat down to have a quick bite of Honey Nut Chex cereal before heading out to the race. My roommate scarfed down a breakfast and got dressed in record time (for her). I got my number pinned onto my jacket, which given the temperature I would be wearing, and we headed out. We stopped off at the gas station for her to grab some much needed Diet Mt. Dew and I snagged a Smart Water for after the race.

Downtown we went, earlier than we needed to, but knowing that this race was a big freakin’ deal and parking might be hard to come by. It wasn’t. We got to Slugger Field and parked in their lot without an issue at all. It’s nice to have the car so close when the race is done and the cool down is over. My roommate grabbed my sign and we headed inside to where people were milling about, runners were stretching, or signing up, or getting their packets. We found a clear space along the wall and took up residence there. I stretched a little, then decided to go use the bathroom. Good thing I decided that then because the line was stupid long and Slugger Field only opened up one of their bathrooms for the thousands of race participants there. And the bathroom only had four stalls in it. So it was a slow line, but I stuck it out.

Upon returning, I shed my long pants to acclimate myself to the cooler weather. I had time for a couple more stretches, but then we decided to start toward the finish line. We had about 20 minutes to race time, but my roommate wanted to get a good spot to cheer for me as I went through the start. This, despite being freezing cold out, was also a good idea. The start line was already swimming with runners lining up to get their spots. Including a team from Kenya (of which one would walk away the winner). It was craziness. So, I found a nice spot under an overpass in the mid-front of the pack and took up residence there while music played, announcements were made, and the National Anthem was sung. After that, we had about 5 minutes where the announcer went through some stats, like how over 9000 people signed up to participate in this race. Amazing. This was bigger than I thought. And I absolutely love big races!

I got my iPod ready to go and just as I did, we were off. It took about a minute or so to get to the start itself, despite not being that far away from it. But as soon as I was through, I was off with the crowd, setting a good, but challenging pace, and taking part in the first race of my first ever Louisville Triple Crown of Running.

What I love about running in downtown Louisville is that it means the inclines are minor and the path is usually pretty flat. Perhaps that has attributed to my fastest times being run on courses down there. Whatever it was, I know my legs were stiff from the cold so my first mile I pushed, but not too hard, in an attempt to warm them up. They finally got there, even in the cold weather and the very strong gusts of wind that met us as we churned through the course. After what seemed like an eternity, mile marker 2 came into view. My time said 17 minutes and some-odd seconds. Wow. I really did go out like a shot. And between that and my body trying to compensate for the cold by using more energy to keep it warm…this is about where I started to get hungry. So now, instead of focusing on my stride, my pace, my run, I was focusing on how completely empty I felt.

No. Not this. Not now.

I could feel myself slowing down. I hated that. I tried to shake it off. Push more. Knowing that at the end, a banana or apple would await me. I rounded a corner, and I could see the finish line in the distance. I was getting there. I just needed to push through it all and really, really get there. So, I dug deep, mentally noting that I need to work on race morning eats when it’s cold out. My pace picked up slightly and I pushed hard…then harder…crossing the finish line as the clock ticked toward 27 minutes. I figured my Race for the Cure PR still stood. The difficult task of finding my roommate in the sea of people was now the important matter. Thankfully, after a couple minutes of discombobulated searching, I found her on a sideline a ways down from the finish. It was the closest she could get, which meant, no finish line shot. She did say that we would by the professional shot from Brightroom of me crossing the finish though (except they didn’t get a picture of me at all in this race, so I’m more than bummed about that). I told her to stick there while I went to go find some fruit to eat. I snagged a banana and apple before heading back to where she was standing.

She had made friends with a nice lady whose husband was running his first 5K. They were waiting on him to come in as well and throughout the race, Cathy was giving her race day tips and things she’s learned in her year-long journey of living with a runner. After he came in, we all said our goodbyes and I went to change out of my running clothes and into some regular clothes so I could head to brunch at a local restaurant called Hillbilly Tea. The restrooms in Slugger Field were not as crowded this time, but as they are outside it was a cold, cold change. But I got sorted and I bid adieu to Slugger Field and the Anthem 5K Fitness Classic.

It was only later in the day that I got the results, which resulted in me doing a lot of squeeing in the car. My official time was my fastest 5K time yet, at 25:33 seconds, which is by no means fast, but it feels good when you beat your previous best time. As for the official standings, I was 52/724 in my age division and 1424/8496 finishers. Considering the day before I had turned to my roommate and said, “My goal is to be in the top 2000, which doesn’t look likely, but hey…”

So, there it stands. My first race in my first ever Louisville Triple Crown of Running and I’m off to a good start so far. The Rhodes City Run 10K is up next on St. Patrick’s Day (followed by another race that evening in Frankfort, Kentucky, kicking off the Frankfort Trifecta Run/Walk Series). I couldn’t be happier with how this race turned out. Perhaps Mother Nature will give us some beautiful weather for the 10K on March 17. Until then, back to training.

March 7, 2012

Recipe: Gluten-Free Skillet Cheesy Baked Pasta

There are some things in life that just make me happy. Honestly. And it’s not what you would expect either. On the contrary, something as simple as the fact that making a skillet pasta meant I got to be all chefy and put my skillet in the oven…made me stupid happy. It’s the little things, my friends.

Tonight, I converted a recipe that came over the e-mail on Recipe.com (which was taken from Family Circle Magazine), from being a simple Skillet Four Cheese “Baked” Pasta to something even better. A Gluten-Free Skillet Cheesy Baked Pasta. Additionally, mine is also vegetarian. And, wow, did this ever go over well at dinner tonight.

Even better…the recipe is easy and everything is simple to prepare and put together. In the end, culinary magic in a skillet pan. Cheesy goodness!

Recipe: Gluten-Free Skillet Cheesy Baked Pasta

Servings: 8
Time: Prep 10 minutes; Bake 20 minutes

Ingredients:

16 oz rotini pasta or penne (I used Miller’s Finest Gluten-Free Corn Pasta Rigatoni)
3/4 pound hot Italian sausage (I used Trader Joe’s Gluten-Free and Vegan Soy Chorizo)
1 sweet red pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 jar marinara sauce (I used Classico Fire Roasted Tomato and Garlic)
2 cups shredded Italian four-cheese blend (I used Kerrygold 15 month aged white cheddar)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 450° F.

Cook pasta following package directions. Drain.

While pasta is cooking, cut sausage into 1/2-inch slices. (If using Trader Joe’s Gluten-Free Vegan Chorizo, then just cut off the casing and keep aside because you don’t need to add this right away). Seed and slice peppers and slice onion for a total of 4 cups.

Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage (unless using TJ’s Gluten-Free Vegan Chorizo, where I added it 5 minutes after the vegetables), peppers and onions. Cook, 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peppers and onions are tender and the sausage is cooked through.

Add sauce and bring to a simmer.

Stir in the drained pasta and 1 cup of the cheese.

Sprinkle remaining cheese over the pasta and bake at 450° F for 8 minutes or until cheese melts and casserole starts to bubble.

Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

~*~*~

This dish was fantastic. My roommate has dubbed it her new favorite meal that I’ve made so far. And the best part is, we still have another 3 days worth of it. It cooked and baked beautifully, the cheese melting fantastically over the top while in the oven. I was impressed.

The Soy Chorizo from Trader Joe’s was the perfect substitute for the sausage, although if you are a meat eater, go ahead and keep the sausage. As I am a vegetarian, I went with something I knew I could have…and thanks to Trader Joe’s a gluten-free sausage does exist. It added a great kick to the overall dish. And the use of cheddar cheese instead of an Italian four cheese blend gave some added flavor without being overpowering or too mild. It was ideal. And yeah…it melted beautifully. This was also the first time I used gluten-free corn pasta, and I absolutely loved it.

This is one of the easiest meals to prep and cook. Just a little chopping and the rest is done via the stove and the oven in one pot (for the pasta) and one large skillet. It doesn’t get easier than that.

Go ahead…try it. I promise…you’ll love it.

March 7, 2012

Oasis gives hummus a spicy kick with Jalapeño Hummus

Product: Oasis Jalapeño Hummus – $2.19+

When I went to Whole Foods last Saturday, hummus was not on my grocery list. And I was sticking to my list because so often I veer off from it and then wonder why I ended up spending a small fortune. So, I promise you, this wasn’t even in my shopping basket as I went through the store.

Yet…I’ve been eating it all week.

So, how did it come into my life?

Simple story…that involves a Whole Foods employee who was being featured at her register. Listed as one of her favorite products was Oasis Jalapeño Hummus. Well, I love spicy things…and I love hummus. So, as it caught my eye, I turned to my roommate and said, “Jalapeño hummus? That sounds epically awesome.”

Amanda, our cashier, caught my interest and said that was her most favorite thing and that she’d be happy to give me a free container of it to try. Um…yes, please!! So, after she finished ringing up the food I purchased to make my vegetable pad thai and gluten-free skillet cheesy pasta this week, she hurried out to the refrigerated area and grabbed a container of the Oasis Jalapeño Hummus to send home with me. I thanked her profusely.

Well, that was the best marketing strategy ever because now, after having enjoyed it for the better part of this week, I’m absolutely hooked.

It looks like your basic, run-of-the-mill hummus, with a dollop of jalapeño in the center. Mmmm. But the slight heat is apparent throughout the entire spread. I dish up a serving each morning (2 tablespoons) and bring a serving of baby carrots with me to work and this is my afternoon snack. And it’s so perfect.

The hummus is smooth and creamy. It has that standard hummus flavor of the chickpeas and tahini with a touch of garlic and all. But it’s that slow heat from the jalapeño that really makes this a stand out among other hummus brands, types, and spreads. I even had my roommate give it a taste, and even she liked it. In fact, she commented on how amazing that would be on a sandwich as neither of us are big on mayonnaise. That comment shocked me because before she was very anti-hummus, but she seemed to honestly like this. Perhaps all she needed was a little spice to get those taste buds on par with everything else.

So, I want to thank Whole Foods, Amanda, and Oasis for this product. Now that it’s in my life, I think it will start making the grocery list. Fantastic hummus with a spicy kick. It pairs well with vegetables, bread, etc. The options are endless and that’s what I love to see in a product.

So, if you want to take hummus to the next level…find Oasis Jalapeño Hummus and get dipping. Because it really is worth raving about.

March 6, 2012

Katz proves once again with Cinnamon Donuts that gluten-free is delicious

Product: Katz Gluten Free Cinnamon Donuts – $6.49 (plus shipping)

I had another “Mmmmm…donuts!” moment.

I admit it. I’m not ashamed of it. These things happen. They happen all the time. It just doesn’t normally happen to me because normally donuts are off limits. This isn’t a “OMG…my thighs will get huge!” sort of off limits. No, no. This is a…eating that regular donut will hurt me kind of way.

Truth be told. I have always, always loved donuts and not being able to eat them kind of…well…sucked.

There are gluten-free varieties out there. They are limited varieties…but they exist. But none…none have equaled the donuts that I used to be able to indulge in every now and again. And then…along came donuts by Katz Gluten Free.

First it was the Powdered Sugar Donuts. I raved about those already, and rightfully so. I mean…they blew me away. Light, sugary, delicious…it was love at first (low-calorie) bite. And then, while minding my business one day an e-mail comes through advertising KATZ NEW CINNAMON DONUTS. Do you realize the effect my prior experience with their donuts had? Let me fill you in…

The instant, and I’m not kidding, I opened that e-mail, I was on the Katz Web site and placing an order. Honestly. I didn’t hesitate or blink in the process. I knew I had to try them because…I fell so head-over-heels for the powdered sugar variety. These had to be good too, right?

Well, let me tell you, when FedEx arrived with my package two days later I hurried up front to the receptionists desk, snatched the box, opened it up, marveled, put them in the freezer, and promised myself donuts for breakfast on Sunday. I couldn’t do it on Saturday as I had a road race and I have my specific foods I eat those days.

Sunday couldn’t come fast enough. I thawed out two donuts (one for me and one for my non-gluten-free roommate) and then gave them a quick 10 second buzz in the microwave to add a bit of that ‘freshly baked’ warmness to them. As I settled in for breakfast, I anticipated my first bite, wondering if it could live up to the powdered sugar variety.

It did just that and then some. These seem a bit more fluffy than the powdered sugar counterparts, but just as amazing and delicious. I had to keep myself from scarfing it down, remembering to chew each bite, taste the sweet cinnamon, enjoy the light cake-like texture. And I managed, but it was no easy task.

These donuts are beyond amazing. They are one of the best I have ever eaten (and before going gluten-free, I ate lots of different types of donuts). They are a cake-based donut, but they are so light. They don’t feel heavy at all when you eat them. The texture isn’t dense at all, just bite-for-bite delicious. I can’t wait to choose another morning to indulge because every time I open up my freezer, they beckon to me.

Katz, you have once again outdone your gluten-free counterparts. The Cinnamon Sugar donuts are, so far, my favorite thing from your lineup that I have tried. I’m in donut heaven and I have you to thank for it.

And for those of you who might be counting calories, one plump, donut-sized donut will only set you back 160 calories. How’s that for an indulgence? Fall in love with donuts again. And then…go to Katz Gluten Free and place an order for these. You won’t be disappointed. The hard part is not immediately ordering more. Yes…they are that good.

A little sweet, a little spicy, Katz completely captures the essence of the perfect donut with this product. I’m hooked.

March 4, 2012

Hillbilly Tea – no backwoods operation, just delicious tea, food, and the comforts of home

Restaurant: Hillbilly Tea, Louisville, Kentucky

Most restaurants go into a slight panic when I turn up. No, I’m not kidding. Unless they are equipped with a gluten-free menu, my preface to an order usually begins with, “I want to let you know that have a gluten allergy…and I’m also a vegetarian.” Usually, and sometimes unsuccessfully, this relegates me to the SALAD portion of the menu.

This was not the case for Louisville’s own, very eclectic, fantastic Hillbilly Tea.

I know, the Yankee (I was raised in New York) in me balks at the name. But for this Appalachian-style tea café offers up all the comforts of home, in a trendy, comforting setting. It’s hard not to immediately fall in love with the rustic style within the walls of this café in downtown Louisville. The wooden tables. The variety of chairs. The tables adorned with simple flowers in small individual vases, so as not to interfere with your conversation across the table. It’s a beautiful setting for a fantastic dining experience.

Hillbilly Tea defines itself as a trendy tea café, which offers a variety of fresh, organic whole leaf teas, which they mix and pair themselves. Additionally, the chef is cooking up Appalachian comfort food, sourced from local organic farms. It’s a dining gem in the hart of Louisville, Kentucky (located right across the street from the First Street White Castle, FYI). It doesn’t look like much on the outside, but it’s what is inside that generates the magic.

I had just finished up the Anthem 5K Fitness Classic in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday and was absolutely starving. On a lark a couple weeks back, I had gone ahead and purchased a Groupon for food and tea at Hillbilly Tea. As we were already downtown, and famished, my roommate and I headed over to Hillbilly Tea for brunch. And it was already bustling at 9:30 when we finally parked and ducked inside.

We were greeted warmly by the front of house and shown to a table near the back. I fell in love with the rustic decor, how no tables were clothed, how the silverware was served wrapped in a napkin and held together with a clothespin. Yes…I was already in love with this place before even settling on food and a tea to try. We were given menus and left with them to mull over for a moment while he went to seat other patrons heading in to eat as well.

Tea was the first thing on my mind as it had been a very, very cold morning and I was still chilled from my 3.1 mile run in shorts in 30 degree weather. I settled on hot herbal tea ($3.50), choosing the Sweet Dream variety, which is a delicate mix of chamomile with a hint of peppermint and lemon. My roommate, who is just learning the wonders of tea, opted for a black tea ($3.50), whether it’s because it would have more caffeine or what, I don’t know. She chose the Morning Dew, which is billed as brisk and bold, begging for milk and sugar. Actually, she chose it because it sounded like the Irish Breakfast tea that I fell in love with in Ireland (Bewley’s…in case you were wondering). We put in our tea orders and then turned our attention to the food portion of the menu.

On Saturdays, brunch is served at Hillbilly Tea, although throughout the week they have a menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The brunch menu is a conglomeration of all of them, I think, scaled down, and perfect for a Saturday crowd. You see, Hillbilly Tea, on Saturdays, serves food from 8 am – 4 pm, so the brunch menu is honestly ideal. I had finally settled on what I was going to get when the hot tea was served at our table, just freshly put in the infuser. I was told to let mine steep for 5 minutes, my roommate for 3 minutes. Instructions well received and followed. Our waiter then was ready to take our order for brunch.

I led off, giving my usually spiel about my food allergies and vegetarianism. Without hesitation. Without even blinking an eye, my server said, “We have a fantastic gluten-free menu. In fact, with the exception of (named off dishes here), everything else is gluten-free or can be made without the bread or scone to accommodate.” A knowledgable staff…this is not something I am used to. I don’t like the guessing game when it comes to what I might be eating or what might be in my food. And this…this put me right at ease. So, I ordered the Breakfast Platter ($7.00) without the toast and with a side of the Pit Roasted Sweet Potatoes ($3.00). My roommate opted for the Eggs and Biscuit and Gravy ($8.00) with a side of the Corn Pone ($3.00). The order was in and we settled in to enjoy the atmosphere, conversation, and some fantastic hot tea.

I was quite happy with the food when it arrived. It looked and smelled amazing. My meal actually consisted of three scrambled eggs, which looked to be seasoned with fresh herbs, and served with a potato and mushroom hash. The Pit Roasted Sweet Potatoes looked like healthy, ungreasy, sweet potato fries. Not what I was expecting at all.

My roommate’s plate was a delicious looking platter with house-made hearty biscuits, smothered in a vegetarian gravy that is made up of shitake mushrooms and thyme, and then topped with two perfectly poached eggs. It was actually the first time my roommate ever had a poached egg (and for this, I don’t know whether to blame Gordon Ramsay or Anthony Bourdain), but she figured she can’t say she doesn’t like something if she never tries it. And, with the exception of a taste of biscuits and gravy at Nat’s (a divey diner in Los Angeles, CA), she never had biscuits and gravy either, just always said she despised them on their looks. But, she went out of her dining comfort zone again and took a chance. For her, it was victory. She fell in love with poached eggs and raved about the dense biscuit and how it paired well with the gravy on top. As for the corn pone…well, she loved how it wasn’t sweet, it was perfectly scored with grill marks, and was ideal to sop up the remaining gravy from her plate. Brunch success.

So, how did the Breakfast Platter fare? Well, this was the first time in a very, very, very long time where I didn’t top off my eggs with hot sauce. And, these eggs, honestly, didn’t need it. They were scrambled to perfection, so that they clumped together, but were still soft. No cheese (loved that part!) was added to bulk it up or flavor it out. It was very nicely seasoned with the fresh herbs folded into the eggs. It didn’t need anything else. Perfect flavor and I didn’t even miss my hot sauce (and that’s saying something!). The potato and mushroom hash was divine. Honestly. The potatoes were seasoned to perfection and cooked to a nice light brown. The mushrooms weren’t watery or overcooked, and folded in perfectly with the potatoes. I was in carb heaven. Add to it the delicious Pit Roasted Sweet Potatoes and my dining experience was beyond amazing. What I loved about the sweet potatoes was they weren’t salted, they weren’t fried. They were sweet and roasted to perfection so that they held up when forked and were tender yet on the inside. It was the best sweet potato anything I ever got anywhere…and I order sweet potatoes a lot.

We each polished off our plates and sat to finish up our tea. The check was brought over but we were told not to rush. We did have a lot on our plate today, so we paid, bid adieu to this fantastic little restaurant, and headed out with the promise that we would come back for a lunch during the week sometime and also try it out for dinner another time. Not only is the food great, but most items on their menu don’t even hit the double-digit mark. Upscale, organic food at an affordable price…I’m beyond okay with that.

If you happen to live in the Louisville, Kentucky area or might be passing through or in town for some reason, do make an effort to stop by Hillbilly Tea. They serve up some of the most amazing food in the city from this little unassuming place in the heart of downtown. It’s comfort food taken up a notch and served to perfection. I can’t wait to return and bring a couple of friends with me. While it’s tempting to keep this place all to myself, I can’t stop myself from wanting to share it with others either. Therefore, it’s best to bring in a fresh crowd and get them hooked as well. Places like this need to stay open for a long time to come. Healthy, delicious comfort food…right in the heart of downtown Louisville. No joke…this place does exist. And it goes by the name of Hillbilly Tea.

Hillbilly Tea's Breakfast Platter (no toast) with a side of Pit Roasted Sweet Potatoes

March 2, 2012

Kicking off the Louisville Triple Crown of Running

Anthem 5K Fitness Classic, Louisville, KY

You gotta love a city that puts on a series of events in an effort to promote and help more runners and walkers in the area embrace a healthy lifestyle and work towards a goal of completing a three-series race series. That, in a nutshell, is the Louisville Triple Crown of Running in Louisville, Kentucky. This annual event takes place in downtown Louisville every year, with three different legs of the series, all of different lengths. And tomorrow…it kicks off.

The races are the Anthem 5K Fitness Classic, which kicks off the entire series, tomorrow, March 3rd. March 17th is the Rodes City Run 10K. And on March 31st, the Papa John’s 10 Miler caps off the series.

I am registered for all three of the races in the series. This will be my first time running in the Triple Crown and I’m quite excited about it.

Today, Louisville is filled with thunderstorms and severe weather. Tornado warnings are everywhere. People are in a panic. But…I’m playing it cool. I’m actually not too worried about it.

And tomorrow, with the front moving through, we’re cooling down from our unseasonably mild winter weather to some cooler temperatures. It will be a good morning for a run. And I’m really anticipating being a part of this growing event. Last year, over 8,000 people ran in the Anthem 5K Fitness Classic. This year, there are more. And I’m so proud to be one of them!

Then, the next race will be one of two that I am running that day. The other is part of another racing series (Frankfort Trifecta in Frankfort, KY) that I am participating in. And at the end of the month, coinciding with a long run for my half marathon training…the 10 mile run. It’s a good build up for my first (of four) half marathons I am participating in this year.

That being said, I love a big, popular race and I really am looking forward to hitting the streets with local runners, and those who have traveled in to be a part of this. I’m ready to run. I’m excited to run. It’s races like this that make me call myself a runner.

Stay tuned…because I’m sure I’ll have some stories to share from the road.

And for those out there who are participating in this as well…good luck!

But…no running today for me. Day of rest. I need strong legs to carry me through what is called a fast, flat course. Here’s to hoping for some run magic.

March 2, 2012

Kinnikinnick’s graham-style crackers will make you want S’more

Product: Kinnikinnick Graham Cracker Style S’moreables – $4.59+

Remember those nights in the summer, either at camp or at home, when you’d sit around a fire and roast marshmallows on a stick, layer a graham cracker half with a piece of a Hershey’s bar, slather on the toasted, gooey marshmallow, and smoosh it all together with the other half? That was the life, yes?

S’mores are every campfire’s guilty pleasure. But I had to give them up. Three years ago, when I became a vegetarian, marshmallows were nixed from my diet (they have gelatin in them). And then, a year ago, when I had to go gluten-free, my graham crackers went bye-bye as well.

I’m not going to lie, it was not easy to give up my S’mores. Especially when I would attend a bonfire and watch everyone make them. It was a bummer, for sure. But, you know, you just get used to it.

Does that mean the craving goes away? Of course not!

And then grocery store karma happened. I had one of those magical moments when I was walking through the small gluten-free section of one of the grocery stores in town when I spotted these on the bottom shelf. Kinnikinnick Foods had come out with a Graham Style Cracker that they were marketing as (ready for this?) S’moreables. And right there…right on the front of the box, screaming at me from the bottom shelf, was a delicious, ooey-gooey looking S’more made from these gifts from gluten-free heaven.

I was sold. And so was that box because, budget or not, it found its way into my grocery basket and then in my pantry soon after.

Last night, without a dessert prepared, I decided to bust out my impromptu S’mores as my treat. But these were not just any S’mores, friends. Nope…I made mine a Gourmet Gluten-Free Vegetarian S’moreable Treat. Too much Top Chef? Perhaps. But I went all out.

Kinnikinnick Foods S'moreables Graham Style Cracker

I admit it…I was immediately skeptical about this product after busting open the box and pulling out a cracker for myself and my roommate. They are much smaller than an actual graham cracker is, and they look like little sheets of cardboard. Looks can be deceiving though, so I ran with it and prayed that it would be delicious. After breaking them in half, carefully, with the assistance of a butter knife, I grabbed a Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate Hazelnut square from my chocolate stash and placed them on one side of the cracker. Because I am a vegetarian, I reached for marshmallow fluff for the marshmallow bit of this treat. But…how to get that roasted flavor?

Simple.

Kitchen torch. And I just happen to have one. (Too many cooking shows bring about spontaneous purchases).

A simple torching of the fluff, and the marshmallow-goodness was roasted as though it had been done over a fire. AWESOME! So, it was with great trepidation that I flipped it over onto the chocolate half, and delivered one to my roommate while I toasted up the fluff for the other one.

But when I heard an approving sound from the other room, I knew we hit gluten-free money! Gone was my concern over the appearance of the product. With my kitchen torch now stored, I joined my roommate in the other room with my own gourmet s’more. One bite…and it was better than anything I had before. The crackers not only smelled like ‘real’ graham crackers, but the taste was so close you’d be hard pressed to tell me these were gluten-free. Amazing, sweet, delicious and the texture was dead on. I was beyond impressed.

Even better…only 60 calories a cracker. Guilt-free graham cracker style dining. YES!!

Kinnikinnick impressed me once again with one of their products. I am honestly loving finding brands where every product I have tried has been great. When I find a name I can trust, I tend to stick with it. Kinnikinnick is becoming one of those gluten-free brands that I could just go to and find something good without having to worry about it.

If it’s been awhile since you’ve had a S’more due to gluten intolerance…well, those days are numbered. Find these crackers and treat yourself to that campfire treat…right in the comfort of your own home. Oh…and if you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can toast up marshmallows (if you aren’t vegetarian) or the fluff in the oven via the instructions on the box of S’moreables.

So here’s to those summer nights filled with a messy handful of graham cracker, chocolate and marshmallow goo. Because anyway you toast it up…that’s just good stuff.

Gourmet Gluten-Free S'more made from Kinnikinnick Foods S'moreables, a Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate Hazelnut square, and Marshmallow Fluff

March 2, 2012

Pacific cooks up a delicious, creamy Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

Product: Pacific Natural Foods Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup – $1.00+

I admit it.

As a child, I loved those days when dinner was one of those tomato-based canned monstrosities like…”Uh-oh, Spaghetti O’s.” Yes…admit it. You loved them too. Who didn’t?

I stopped eating Spaghetti O’s a couple years ago. Now, because of my gluten intolerance, I can’t eat them at all. And, that’s okay. I really don’t miss them.

I do, however, have a love for delicious soups. And when I picked up Pacific Natural Foods Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup, I didn’t realize what kind of a treat I was in for. It looks like an unassuming, creamy tomato soup. And for the most part, that’s exactly what you get.

What I didn’t expect when I sat down with a bowl of this for dinner last night was how much it would take me back to my childhood days. Honestly. My gluten-free grilled cheese sandwich took a back seat to the soup.

Here’s the thing about this soup…not only is it a rich, tomato flavor, but the roasted red peppers and hint of garlic give it this delicious sweetness in each spoonful. And yes, the flavor was very reminiscent of those cans of Spaghetti O’s. In fact, upon my first slurp of this soup, that was the first comment I made. However, unlike Spaghetti O’s…this soup is kosher, gluten-free, and low fat. Additionally…much healthier and made with organic produce and products…nothing processed. Just delicious.

I fell in love with this soup. I’m so glad I have more of these little packages in my pantry to enjoy. Soup can either be amazing or fall flat. And when it’s such a simple soup, it’s a risk flavor-wise. But this had the right hint of sweetness, followed by the rich flavor of tomatoes that makes a creamy tomato soup worth diving into. And when it’s made with organic produce and made creamy with an organic low fat milk, you feel confident in the product and the health benefits you get from choosing this over…say…Spaghetti O’s or one of those processed canned soups made from…words you don’t even recognize. I’ll never go back to those. I can’t go back to those. Honestly.

Once again, Pacific Natural Foods has wowed me with one of their soups and I think it’s landed itself right at the top as one of my absolute favorites.

Looking for a sweet, creamy soup to take the chill off your winter day? Reach for a trusted, delicious, nutritious product. Find Pacific Natural Foods and take a chance on a flavor. But if you’re looking for that rich comfort of tomato soup, reach for the Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup. You’ll discover it’s awesome flavor too.

March 1, 2012

Making Tracks for Celiacs 5K – Hoover, AL (February 25, 2012)

Bryan, Me, and Armand at the start of the Making Tracks for Celiacs 5K in Hoover, Alabama

Race: Making Tracks for Celiacs 5K

Place: Veterans Park, Hoover, AL

Date: February 25, 2012

Time: 27:48

Sometimes there comes a time in your running career when a moment will forever be etched into your mind. Something special happens. Something clicks. It means something to you. It’s yours to treasure.

One of those moments, for me, is this race.

I’ve run countless 5Ks before. In fact, for me a 5K is a walk in the park. I could do them in my sleep. Am I super-fast at them? Hell no. I’m not fast by any means. I steadily fall in the middle of my age group at races. But 5Ks are fantastic runs. I love doing them. They’re quick. A wide variety of people run in them. And they can still be a challenge at times.

The race at Veterans Park in Hoover, Alabama was certainly a challenge. But that’s not why this race is special.

I signed up for this race when I was in Birmingham visiting my family for Christmas. Why this race specifically? Well, it gave plenty of time for training…for my brother-in-law, Bryan. Bryan had taken up running a couple months before and was working his way through a Couch To 5K program. I went running with him when I was there. It was fun. He kept up a good pace. And we could talk about different aspects of the sport. He could ask me questions, which he did. So, we picked a race and it would become his first race. I was already looking at participating in this one as it was attached to a Gluten-Free Expo in town, so it was ideal. Perfect time for him to train properly.

The day before the race, my parents call me to let me know something else is going on. My grandpa would be driving back through Birmingham from his trip down to Florida and he was going to be stopping by. They mentioned to him that Bryan and I were participating in a race on Saturday and he opted to stay an extra day and come out for the event. I was thrilled. Beyond thrilled.

The trip down to Birmingham was easy. That night, we went out to eat at a little diner, The Depot, in Helena, Alabama. I brought my own slices of gluten-free bread and dressed it up with the lettuce, onion and tomato my dad got (on the side) with his burger. A side of tater tots and we were in business. I went to bed that night beyond excited about getting up the next morning and doing the race.

There was a chill in the air that morning in Alabama. In fact, I had to scrape frost off my car windows. But I pulled on my shorts and my Rudi’s Gluten-Free Bread t-shirt that was provided to me by the company and ate a light breakfast of Cinnamon Chex. I split a banana with my grandpa. He was already discussing with me walking the trail and picking up any discarded pieces of clothing to take to Goodwill. Or, perhaps, he’d work one of the water stations. SO cool!! Sometimes I don’t think my grandpa realizes that he’s 90. I’m okay with that because he doesn’t look or act 90.

We get to Veterans Park and manage to find parking. The packet pick-up and registration was easy to spot, so I hustled on over to get my packet. Sadly, they were out of my size t-shirt (!!!!), so I went a size up. My goody bag was a reusable bag from a local running store, Trak Shak, which does a lot of races in the area. Inside were some gluten-free goodies to enjoy (crackers, Larabars, etc.). Bryan, my sister and their two boys showed up next and I showed Bryan where to go to get his bag. They were out of his size t-shirt too (!!!) so he had to take one a size down. Note to those putting on the race: Pre-registered runners should always have a guaranteed shirt in their size. Just sayin’.

No sooner had we gotten pinned up, our friend Armand (who lives in Atlanta, GA), turns up for the race as well. There were hugs (and a manly handshake between Bryan and Armand), and we got him registered for the race. No t-shirt for those signing up on race day. Which…is too bad.

The three of us spread out to get a few easy stretches in while we waited for the announcement on where the start line was. There was nothing really set up for it…no sensor laid out on the terrain or anything. As we are doing this, my grandpa decides that he is also going to be in the race, as one of the walkers! Honestly, I was stretching and the next thing I know, he’s pinning on a number. I was so excited. I had talked about the course with my grandpa earlier. I had looked at the park online and it seemed like a relatively flat course. No one had really been over to the park to check it out, but every picture showed people walking or running along a level path.

The announcements were made that the race was to begin in five minutes and all participants should make their way over to the start line. The problem was…no one really knew where the start line was. People started moving off in one direction, so we kind of followed them, but it was more than a little confusing. Finally, it was pointed out that the race would start on the grass, between two metal barrels that were positioned there. Okay…

As we were heading that way, I spotted someone who sort of knew what he was doing, so I inquired as to what our route would be. He said we had to run across the field to get to the path to get the .1 in for the 3.1 miles of the 5K. Understandable. After that, we would run the path that the cross country team runs. That meant nothing to me, but as I am not ever in the lead, I figured that I would just go where everyone else goes as usual. One woman overheard the directions and commented about the path being the ‘one with the hill.’ Uh oh. Well, I figured we were in the middle of a field…how hilly could it be? Flat paths in pictures. Yes. This wouldn’t be so bad.

And it wasn’t. Except that this was more of a trail run than a road race. The path was completely made up of loose gravel, little pebbles that made running on it more like running in sand. Once you hit the path, you round a corner and you head into a wooded area where you round a lake, come back around, and head through a tunnel to hit up the other side of the park. The entire time, you are cruising along on this soft gravel, feet sliding a bit, sometimes hitting roots and pine cones. It was a challenge. I never ran cross country in high school or college. In fact, running was punishment in the sports I did play during my time in high school. College? I was too busy working full time and going to class to fit in any sort of sport. This was completely new to me and, I’ll be honest, I wasn’t prepared for it.

Be that as it may, I still took the race as it came. Instead of going with the downhill motion though, I found myself pulling back, so as not to trip on a tree root or slip on a pine cone. It was a different sort of race. A learning experience for sure. I had left Bryan and Armand at the start line, so I was hoping they were doing okay with the terrain. And, since the woman mentioned a hill, I found quite a few on this path. More than I would have anticipated. And every time I ran up one, I thought, “Okay…that was the hill she was talking about…”

WRONG!

I found the hill…about 1K out from the finish. I round a corner where this massive, steep hill loomed, hidden from the cover of the trees. I think I deflated upon seeing it. Here I was…so close to the finish…and this beast was what stood between me and the finish line.

“Oh dear God!”

Yes, I said that aloud. The runner behind me started laughing and as I started up it in a run, I heard him say, “Screw it, I’m walking it.” Oh yeah…this was THE HILL. No doubt about it. And as I crested it to the leveled off area at the top and started back toward the tunnel to head in to the finish line, I thought about my grandpa, who was doing this race. I had said flat terrain. Here we had hills. THAT hill to be specific.

After the pass back through the tunnel things got a little confusing. Runners weren’t quite sure where to go. Someone was waving in the distance to go straight, so the runner ahead of me and I did that, despite other runners having gone around the parked cars and through the playground to get back on track. Guess I got to that point at the right time. Next time…some cones to guide the way might be a good idea. I could see the finish line, so on went the last bit of speed I could muster (thanks to THE HILL) and crossed the finish line. My roommate, Cathy, and our friend Marc (who had moved to Birmingham last year) and was toting around his 1-year-old daughter, were there to greet me. I wasn’t happy with my time, but I wasn’t disappointed either. That was the first time I had run in those conditions so 27:48 was nothing to sneeze at. Honestly, I had been hoping on setting a new 5K PR, but it will happen another time in another race.

Bryan flashing a thumbs up in the Making Tracks for Celiacs 5K

Now came the part I was most excited about. Bryan’s finish. He was still out there, but I knew he wouldn’t be long behind me. Cathy went to go get my mom, sister, and the kiddliewinks to come to the finish line. Marc and I stood around and talked for a bit. It was great. The excitement of the race was there. And we had brought signs for Bryan. Because every runner needs signs and encouragement during their first race. Or any race.

The family got to the finish line and we busted out the signs. Landon, who is five, was given a sign that simply said, “Run Daddy Run!” My sister had a sign that said, “Bryan: Today you are my hero!” Except she had pictures to take so I held that for her. Makes sense. And not but five minutes after we got everyone there…we see him. He sees us. His pace picks up and he runs down the final stretch to the finish line. And he crossed at 37:57 seconds. A great base to build on as he does more running. I was so proud of him. I went and gave him a hug and congratulated him. And he said that he had a lot of fun. I had been telling him that running in races is addictive because runners are awesome people and the atmosphere at these things is just…incredible. I think he now understood. He had a great time.

Bryan crossing the finish line at the Making Tracks for Celiacs 5K

Armand was about 10 minutes behind him. When we saw him coming the cheer section kicked back into gear. Armand finished the race in 46:03. We congratulated him and talked for a bit about the run, about the path, about THE HILL.

And then…it was grandpa’s turn. We could see him coming. He was walking the race, but as we found out, was the oldest competitor in the event. It was so much fun to stand at that finish line and cheer for him. Chace, my 2-year-old nephew, scampered out to see grandpa as he was coming into the finish line. And Landon went to walk with him through it. Grandpa, at 90 years old, completed that 5K course, with THE HILL, in 55:12. It was so awesome to be in a race with him. He had to give up running a couple years ago, but walking he can do. And he rocked this race. At 90 years old, he finished a 5K in under an hour. That is amazing. How many 90-year-olds can claim that? I was so proud of him. There were more hugs and our race was done.

Armand had to go, and Bryan and my grandpa were going to head back to my parents house. My sister and mom stuck around for a bit, as we were going to check out the Gluten-Free Expo. But, it took awhile for the awards ceremony to start, and by then, my mom needed to get to the grocery store to pick up some items and get home because both Chace and Landon needed to eat by 11 a.m. and grandpa would probably want to take a nap after the exciting day. So, off they went and Cathy and I went to check out the expo for a brief walk through. It had been our intention to check out a few seminars, but my grandpa was in town, and I could go to other expos. So, after working our way around the tables and through the crowd, we headed home for a light lunch and some down time before hitting up a birthday party for two of my brother’s kids.

Grandpa getting a high five from his great grandson, Chace, at the Making Tracks for Celiacs 5K

It was a busy, busy day.

Official race results weren’t posted until Monday, but once they were I found out that I placed fourth in my age division. The woman who came in first, was only 30 seconds faster than me. Wow. Overall, I finished 19th. Bryan was 13th in his age division and 59th overall. Armand was 17th in his age division and 92nd overall. And grandpa…he was 3rd in his age division (which consisted of a 67-year-old and a 61-year-old), the oldest competitor, and was 142nd overall. After scanning the list, I found out 172 people finished, which means 30 people came in after grandpa did. And the person who crossed the finish line last…was 26. I am overwhelmed with pride for my grandpa. He does things like this and I become the proud granddaughter and brag on him as much as possible. And why shouldn’t I? He’s amazing!

I hope that this race sparked a fire in Bryan to get him out and competing in other races. Not only are they great workouts, but races are addictive and fun. I hate when I don’t have a race to be in on a weekend. I hope he does more of them. I hope we can run more of them together. I hope Armand gets back into running, because I’d really like someone to run the Chicago Marathon with me in 2013.

As for grandpa…what can I say? The man is amazing. He is my inspiration…my road hero…for a reason. I love him dearly and thank him for being a light on this path to running.

Two huge things happened at the Making Tracks for Celiacs 5K race. Bryan competed and finished his first 5K…and I was in a race with my grandpa. I’m proud of them. Really, really proud of them.

Grandpa crossing the finish line at the Making Tracks for Celiacs 5K

February 29, 2012

A slice of heaven served up however you like it thanks to Against The Grain Gourmet’s pizza shell

Product: Against The Grain Gourmet Gluten-Free Pizza Shell – $8.49+

Pizza is a god-given right in this world and the gluten-free community is getting more and more options these days, allowing those of us who otherwise couldn’t have pizza, a chance to indulge. And why shouldn’t we get our own little slice of comfort topped whatever way we like it?

It’s simple…we shouldn’t.

Gluten-free doesn’t mean tasteless or going without anymore. And when it comes to breads and pizzas, I’ve found one brand that I can rely on regardless.

Against The Grain Gourmet.

I’ve reviewed their baguettes as well as one of their frozen pizzas. Well, tonight I got to make their pizza my own because they sell their amazing gluten-free pizza crust.

This frozen pizza shell is the perfect base for a pizza. Any pizza worth its weight begins with a fantastic crust. Like their baguettes, this shell is infused with three cheese. Yes. Cheese baked right into the 12-inch crust. And that’s why there is magic in each bite.

Preparation is simple too. The shell is frozen. Simply place on a pan or pizza stone, top with desired toppings (in my case, a little sauce, some mushrooms, and then half regular cheese (for the roomie) and half Daiya vegan mozzarella cheese (for me). Simple toppings. Because pizza shouldn’t be complicated or overladen with heavy toppings. Place in the oven at 375° for 10-15 minutes and dinner is served.

One bite…and you’ll see why Against The Grain Gourmet produces magic. Whatever cheese infusion they use in their products…it’s sheer awesome when it comes down to flavor. It’s perfect with every bite. Honestly.

Against The Grain Gourmet Pizza Shell topped with mushrooms and mozarella/Diaya vegan mozzarella cheese — Against The Grain Gourmet Pizza Shell topped with mushrooms and mozzarella/Diaya vegan mozzarella cheese

The crust was very light and thin, which is the best kind of pizza crust to have. And it had this flakiness to it that made it that much more authentic. You wouldn’t even guess it was frozen. It tastes rustic and homemade, which is beyond amazing. Not just for gluten-free food, but for frozen food in general. Against The Grain Gourmet knows what it is doing and does it well, as is evident in each product they put out on the market. I have yet to find a flop.

One word of caution, however. While it is tempting to indulge fully in this amazing pizza and devour it slice-for-slice…if you are a calorie counter, you’ll want to restrain yourself just a little. One slice of the eight servings of the crust itself will set you back 158 calories. That’s without your toppings. Another good reason not to laden it down with too much. Is it worth it? Sure. Just make sure you take a walk if you are feeling guilty. But some foods are just made to enjoy and savor. After all, you don’t eat it every day. So why not be a little bad every now and again, help yourself to a second slice, and just savor gluten-free pizza at its absolute finest.

Now might also be a good time to mention that these pizza shells do not come cheap. One crust was $8.49. Worth it? Yes. Totally. Definitely. But it’s not something I can do often. And that is why there are other pizza crust options out there. But if you want pre-made awesomeness…it doesn’t get much better than Against The Grain Gourmet. I think I can stretch the budget every now and again when a cheesy pizza crust calls my name. It won’t be every time the pizza craving hits, but sometimes a treat is a treat and you just reach for the best.

Against The Grain Gourmet…my chef’s hat is off to you once again. Well done.

Slices of mushroom and vegan cheese pizza on Against The Grain Gourmet Pizza Shell