France is surprisingly easy to navigate in a gluten-free state of mind … that is, once you get over the anguish of not being able to consume vast amounts of buttery croissants, buttery quiche and baguettes smothered in butter. In fact, once you recognize that bread is merely a butter delivery system, you can convince yourself that the bread doesn’t matter.
Really.
The part of you that cries for bread might be gently soothed, however, with the notion that risotto – that creamy, buttery, olive oil-y comfort food – is perfect for your gluten-free French vacation. Like this dish, for example, that was easily THE best meal I had in two weeks in France. Tucked away on a medieval side street in Arles, France, is the Pizzeria Grill des Thermes, an Italian joint with Provincial flair. Sit outside to experience mild mistral winds, or, do as we did, preserve the one good hair day you’ve had in weeks and eat inside.
Love risotto? Here are a few recipe links to get you started:
- Creamy Seafood Risotto from Food & Wine
- Seafood Risotto from the Food Network
- Shrimp Risotto from Epicurious