gluten-free lunches for picky eaters
Gluten-Free Lunches for Picky Eaters: Delicious and Nutritious Options
Introduction:
For individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, finding suitable lunch options can be a challenge. Add to that the pickiness of some eaters, and you have a real conundrum on your hands. However, with a little creativity and a focus on delicious and nutritious ingredients, it is possible to create gluten-free lunches that even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy. In this article, we will explore a variety of gluten-free lunch ideas that are both tasty and satisfying, offering options for different dietary preferences and restrictions. So, let’s dive in and discover some exciting gluten-free lunch options for picky eaters!
1. Wraps and Roll-Ups:
Wraps and roll-ups are versatile, easy-to-make, and can be packed with a variety of flavors. Start with a gluten-free tortilla or wrap, such as those made from corn or rice flour, and fill it with your picky eater’s favorite ingredients. Some popular options include turkey and cheese, ham and avocado, or hummus and veggies. The possibilities are endless, and you can experiment with different combinations to find what your picky eater enjoys the most.
2. Bento Boxes:
Bento boxes are a fun and visually appealing way to present a variety of foods in one meal. You can create a gluten-free bento box by including a mix of protein, grains, fruits, and vegetables. For example, you could include gluten-free chicken nuggets, quinoa salad, carrot sticks, and grapes. The key is to make the box colorful and exciting, allowing your picky eater to choose from a range of options.
3. Salad Bowls:
Salad bowls can be a fantastic option for picky eaters who enjoy fresh ingredients. Start with a base of gluten-free greens, such as spinach or mixed lettuce, and add toppings that your picky eater enjoys. You can include cooked chicken or tofu, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and gluten-free croutons. Offer a variety of dressings, such as ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or lemon tahini, to add flavor and appeal.
4. Pasta Alternatives:
For picky eaters who love their pasta but need to avoid gluten, there are plenty of gluten-free alternatives available. Look for gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa, and prepare it as you would regular pasta. Pair it with a gluten-free tomato sauce, or for a creamier option, try a dairy-free Alfredo sauce made with coconut milk. Add in some cooked vegetables or grilled chicken for added nutrition and flavor.
5. Homemade Pizza:
Pizza is a beloved lunch option for many, and with the right ingredients, it can be made gluten-free and picky eater-friendly. Start with a gluten-free pizza crust or dough, which can be found in most grocery stores or made from scratch using gluten-free flours. Top it with your picky eater’s favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings. Some popular options include pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, or pineapple. Bake it until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted, and watch as your picky eater devours their homemade gluten-free pizza.
6. Stuffed Potatoes:
Potatoes are a versatile and naturally gluten-free ingredient that can be transformed into a satisfying lunch option. Bake a potato until tender, and then slice it open and stuff it with your picky eater’s favorite fillings. Some delicious options include shredded chicken, broccoli and cheese, or black beans and salsa. You can also try sweet potatoes for a healthier twist, adding toppings like Greek yogurt, cinnamon, and honey.
7. Rice and Stir-Fries:
Rice is naturally gluten-free and can be a great base for a variety of stir-fried dishes. Cook rice according to the package instructions and then sauté your picky eater’s favorite vegetables and proteins in a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. You can add chicken, beef, tofu, or shrimp, along with carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and any other veggies your picky eater enjoys. The result is a flavorful and nutritious gluten-free lunch option.
8. Soups and Stews:
Soups and stews can be a comforting and filling lunch choice, especially during colder months. Many traditional soup recipes can easily be adapted to be gluten-free by making a few simple swaps. Look for gluten-free broths or stocks and use gluten-free flours or thickeners to achieve the desired consistency. You can make a hearty vegetable soup, chicken noodle soup with gluten-free noodles, or a beef stew packed with tender meat and vegetables.
9. Sushi Rolls:
Sushi rolls can be a fun and interactive lunch option for picky eaters. While traditional sushi rolls are made with soy sauce containing gluten, you can easily find gluten-free soy sauce alternatives or use tamari instead. Fill the sushi rolls with your picky eater’s favorite ingredients, such as cucumber, avocado, cooked shrimp, or imitation crab. Serve them with gluten-free pickled ginger and wasabi for an authentic sushi experience.
10. Protein-Packed Snacks:
Sometimes, a lunch made up of a variety of snacks can be a hit with picky eaters. Include a mix of protein-packed options, such as hard-boiled eggs, gluten-free deli meat, cheese sticks, and nut or seed butter with gluten-free crackers or apple slices. You can also add in some gluten-free granola bars or energy balls for a sweet treat. This approach allows your picky eater to choose from a selection of smaller items, ensuring they get the nutrition they need while enjoying their lunch.
Conclusion:
When it comes to gluten-free lunches for picky eaters, the key is to focus on variety, flavor, and presentation. By combining different ingredients and exploring various cooking methods, you can create a range of delicious and nutritious lunch options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether it’s wraps and roll-ups, bento boxes, or homemade pizzas, there are countless possibilities to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. So, get creative in the kitchen and enjoy exploring the world of gluten-free lunches that are sure to please everyone’s taste buds.
norton vs bitdefender 2018
Norton and Bitdefender are two leading antivirus software providers in the market, both known for their robust security features and reliable protection against cyber threats. As we enter the year 2018, it is essential to stay updated with the latest antivirus software to keep our devices safe from the continuously evolving online threats. In this article, we will compare Norton and Bitdefender, two of the best antivirus software in the industry, and help you choose the one that suits your needs.
Norton, developed by Symantec Corporation, has been in the market for over three decades and is considered one of the pioneers in the antivirus industry. On the other hand, Bitdefender, developed by Bitdefender SRL, is a relatively new player in the market, but it has quickly gained popularity due to its advanced security features and user-friendly interface. Both Norton and Bitdefender offer a wide range of products, including antivirus, internet security, and total security suites, to cater to the diverse needs of their users. Let us dive deeper into the comparison of Norton vs Bitdefender 2018 and see how they perform in different aspects.
Pricing:
Pricing is one of the primary factors that users consider while choosing an antivirus software. Norton offers a variety of plans, starting from the basic antivirus package at $49.99 per year, which covers one device. The Norton Internet Security package, which includes protection for up to three devices, costs $79.99 per year. For users with multiple devices, Norton also offers the Norton 360 Deluxe package for $89.99 per year, which can protect up to five devices. The most expensive package, Norton 360 with LifeLock Select, costs $149.99 per year and includes features like identity theft protection and a VPN.
On the other hand, Bitdefender offers a more simplified pricing structure. The basic antivirus package, Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, costs $39.99 per year for three devices. The Bitdefender Internet Security package, which includes protection for up to three devices, costs $59.99 per year. For users with multiple devices, Bitdefender offers the Total Security package for $89.99 per year, which can protect up to five devices. The most expensive package, Bitdefender Family Pack, costs $119.99 per year and can protect up to 15 devices.
Both Norton and Bitdefender offer a free trial for their products, allowing users to test their features before making a purchase. In terms of pricing, Bitdefender seems to be more affordable, especially for users with multiple devices. However, Norton’s higher-priced packages offer additional features like VPN and identity theft protection, making it a better choice for users who need these features.
User Interface:
The user interface of an antivirus software plays a crucial role in its usability. Norton’s interface has a modern and sleek design, with all the essential features displayed on the main screen. The home screen also shows the real-time protection status, making it easier for users to keep track of their device’s security. Norton’s interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, with all the features and settings well-organized.
On the other hand, Bitdefender’s interface is also modern and intuitive, with a dark theme that is easy on the eyes. The main screen displays a security overview, including the latest scans, updates, and the security status of the device. The interface also has a quick access panel, allowing users to run scans, update the software, and access other features with just one click. Overall, both Norton and Bitdefender have user-friendly interfaces, but Bitdefender’s dark theme makes it stand out.
Features:
When it comes to features, both Norton and Bitdefender offer top-notch security features to keep your device safe from online threats. Norton’s real-time protection is one of the best in the industry, capable of detecting and blocking new threats as they emerge. It also has a feature called “Insight,” which uses big data analytics to identify safe and malicious files, reducing the scan time significantly.
Bitdefender also offers advanced real-time protection, including its signature feature, “Autopilot,” which automatically makes security decisions on behalf of the user, eliminating the need for manual intervention. Bitdefender also has a “Rescue Mode” feature, which allows users to boot their device in a secure environment and remove any stubborn viruses or malware. Both Norton and Bitdefender offer features like anti-phishing, firewall, and anti-spam, making them equally competent in terms of features.
Performance:
The performance of an antivirus software is crucial as it can significantly impact the speed and performance of the device. Norton has always been known for its lightweight and non-intrusive nature, and the 2018 version is no different. It has a minimal impact on the device’s performance, even during scans, making it a great choice for users who do not want their device’s performance to be affected.
Bitdefender also has a minimal impact on the device’s performance, but it tends to slow down the system during scans. The difference is not significant, but it may be noticeable to some users. However, Bitdefender has an advantage in terms of boot time, as it takes less time to boot the system compared to Norton.
Customer Support:
Customer support is another crucial aspect to consider while choosing an antivirus software. Norton offers 24/7 customer support via phone, chat, and email, making it convenient for users to get assistance anytime they need it. It also has an extensive knowledge base and a community forum where users can find answers to their queries.
On the other hand, Bitdefender’s customer support is available 24/7 via email and chat, but phone support is only available during business hours. However, Bitdefender has an advantage in terms of self-help resources, as it offers a comprehensive knowledge base, video tutorials, and a community forum, making it easier for users to troubleshoot any issues they may face.
Additional Features:
Apart from the core security features, both Norton and Bitdefender offer additional features that can enhance the overall experience. Norton offers a secure VPN to its users, allowing them to browse the internet anonymously and securely. It also offers a password manager, parental controls, and a backup solution, making it a complete security suite. Bitdefender also offers a VPN, password manager, and parental controls, but its backup solution is available only in the most expensive package.
Conclusion:
After comparing Norton and Bitdefender in different aspects, it is clear that both are excellent antivirus software providers, offering top-notch security features and reliable protection against online threats. Norton has been in the market for a longer time and has established itself as a trusted brand, while Bitdefender, although relatively new, has quickly gained recognition for its advanced security features and user-friendly interface.
In terms of pricing, Bitdefender seems to be more affordable, especially for users with multiple devices. However, Norton’s higher-priced packages offer additional features like VPN and identity theft protection, making it a better choice for users who need these features. Both Norton and Bitdefender have user-friendly interfaces, with Bitdefender’s dark theme making it stand out. When it comes to features, both offer advanced real-time protection and additional features like a VPN and password manager.
In terms of performance, both Norton and Bitdefender have a minimal impact on the device’s performance, but Bitdefender tends to slow down the system during scans. Finally, both Norton and Bitdefender offer excellent customer support, with Norton having an edge in terms of availability and Bitdefender offering more self-help resources.
In conclusion, both Norton and Bitdefender are excellent choices for antivirus software in 2018, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. If you need a reliable and trusted brand with additional features like VPN and identity theft protection, go for Norton. If you want a more affordable option with a user-friendly interface and advanced security features, Bitdefender is the way to go. Whichever you choose, you can rest assured that your device will be protected from the ever-evolving cyber threats.