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    High Protein Mocha Overnight Oats

    These High Protein Mocha Overnight Oats are the ultimate make ahead breakfast for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and coffee first thing in the morning. Gluten free quick oats are stirred together with Greek yogurt, chocolate protein powder, espresso powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, and chia seeds, then left to chill overnight so breakfast is ready and waiting for you when you wake up.

    Each serving is packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied all morning long, and the rich mocha flavor makes it feel more like a treat than a healthy breakfast.

    a clear sundae cup of high protein mocha overnight oats with mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top

    What makes these high protein overnight oats so easy is that everything comes together in one container in just a few minutes the night before. There is no cooking, no blending, and no morning prep required.

    Simply stir, refrigerate, and wake up to a thick and creamy gluten free breakfast that tastes like a chocolate mocha in oat form. Top them with a few mini chocolate chips and a drizzle of honey for an extra indulgent finish, or enjoy them plain straight from the refrigerator.

    Whether you are meal prepping for a busy week or just want a no effort gluten free breakfast that actually keeps you full, this is the recipe to add to your regular rotation.

    If you are looking for more gluten free oats recipes try my Gluten Free Oatmeal Raisin Overnight Oats, my Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal with Streusel Topping, my Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Oat Granola Bars or my Gluten Free Old Fashioned Iced Oatmeal Cookies.

    You can find all my breakfast recipes here: Gluten Free Breakfast Recipes

    clear cups of high protein mocha overnight oats with honey drizzled on top and mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Gluten Free Quick Oats
    • Nescafe Gold Espresso Powder
    • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
    • Milk
    • Plain Greek Yogurt
    • Chocolate Protein Powder
    • Chia Seeds
    • Maple Syrup or Honey
    • Vanilla Extract
    • Salt
    • Mini Chocolate Chips

    Instructions

    In an air tight container whisk together the milk, yogurt, espresso powder, cocoa powder, protein powder, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla and salt until the mixture is smooth and the powders are completely dissolved.

    Add the gluten free oats and stir to combine.

    Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 6 hours. I like to refrigerate mine overnight.

    When you are ready to serve the overnight oats, stir the oats and add a splash of milk if they are too thick for you.

    This makes two servings that you can serve cold or heat in the microwave to serve warm.

    I top mine with a few mini chocolate chips and drizzle of honey. It's optional, but delicious.

    Supplies


    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Gluten Free Oatmeal Raisin Overnight Oats
    • Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Oat Granola Bars
    • Gluten Free Old Fashioned Iced Oatmeal Cookies
    • Gluten Free Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    High Protein Mocha Overnight Oats


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

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    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
    • Yield: 2 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
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    Description

    Gluten free quick oats stirred together with Greek yogurt, chocolate protein powder, espresso powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, and chia seeds for a thick and creamy high protein overnight oats recipe that tastes like a chocolate mocha. Make them the night before and wake up to a ready to eat gluten free breakfast that is packed with protein and full of rich mocha flavor.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 1 cup Gluten Free Quick Oats
    • 1 cup Milk of Choice
    • ½ cup Plain Greek Yogurt
    • 1 tsp Nescafe Gold Espresso Powder
    • 1 Tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
    • 2 Tbsp Chia Seeds
    • 1 scoop Chocolate Protein Powder
    • 2 Tbsp Maple Syrup or Honey
    • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
    • Pinch of Salt
    • Mini Chocolate Chips, optional

    Instructions

    In an air tight container whisk together the milk, yogurt, espresso powder, cocoa powder, protein powder, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla and salt until the mixture is smooth and the powders are completely dissolved.

    Add the gluten free oats and stir to combine.

    Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 6 hours. I like to refrigerate mine overnight.

    When you are ready to serve the overnight oats, stir the oats and add a splash of milk if they are too thick for you.

    This makes two servings that you can serve cold or heat in the microwave to serve warm.

    I top mine with a few mini chocolate chips and drizzle of honey. It's optional, but delicious.

    If you made this recipe please leave a star rating and comment below. It helps other readers find this recipe and means so much to me.

    • Prep Time: 6 hours, 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 0 minutes
    • Category: Breakfast, Snacks
    • Method: Instant Pot
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    If you make these High Protein Mocha Overnight Oats, I would love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out, or tag me on Instagram so I can see your breakfast bowl.

    This is one of those recipes you will want to meal prep every single week, so save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you always have it ready when you need a quick and easy high protein gluten free breakfast!

    Storage

    Store the overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making them a great option for weekly meal prep. The oats will continue to thicken as they sit so add a splash of milk and give them a good stir before serving if they are thicker than you like.

    Wait to add the mini chocolate chips and honey topping until right before you eat so they stay fresh. Do not freeze overnight oats as the texture of the oats and chia seeds does not hold up well after thawing.

    Top Tip

    Make sure you whisk the espresso powder, cocoa powder, and protein powder into the milk and yogurt mixture until they are completely dissolved before adding the oats. Protein powder and cocoa powder in particular can clump if they are not fully incorporated into the liquid first, which affects both the texture and the consistency of the finished overnight oats. Taking an extra minute to whisk everything smooth before stirring in the oats makes a big difference in the final result.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make these mocha overnight oats without protein powder?

    Yes, you can leave out the protein powder and the overnight oats will still be delicious. Keep in mind that removing the protein powder will reduce the protein content significantly and may make the oats slightly thinner in consistency. You can compensate by adding an extra tablespoon of chia seeds or an extra dollop of Greek yogurt to help thicken them back up.

    Can I use regular oats instead of gluten free quick oats?

    Quick oats give you the best creamy texture for overnight oats. If you only have gluten free rolled oats on hand those will work too but the texture will be slightly chewier and less creamy than the quick oat version. Always make sure your oats are certified gluten free if you are sensitive to gluten cross contamination.

    Can I serve these overnight oats warm?

    Absolutely. These overnight oats are delicious served cold straight from the refrigerator but they also heat beautifully in the microwave. Heat in 30 second intervals stirring in between until warmed through, and add a splash of milk to loosen them up if needed before serving.

    Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup or honey?

    Yes, any liquid sweetener will work in this recipe. Agave nectar is a good option if you prefer a milder sweetness. You can also use a sugar free sweetener like monk fruit syrup if you want to reduce the sugar content. Start with less than the recipe calls for and adjust to taste since sweetener preferences vary.

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    Gluten Free Lemon Buttermilk Cake

    This Gluten Free Lemon Buttermilk Cake is a tender and moist single layer cake bursting with bright lemon flavor in every bite. Made with fresh lemon zest rubbed directly into the granulated sugar to release the lemon oils, buttermilk for a perfectly tender crumb, and finished with a simple lemon glaze drizzled over the top, this is the kind of easy gluten free cake recipe that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

    Ready in just over 30 minutes, it is the perfect dessert for spring and summer when you want something light, fresh, and completely from scratch.

    a gluten free lemon buttermilk cake with lemon glaze on a wood cutting board next to a tan gingham kitchen towel

    What makes this gluten free lemon cake stand out is the combination of melted butter and avocado oil, which gives the cake a rich and moist texture that holds up beautifully even after a day or two.

    The lemon buttermilk cake batter comes together quickly in a stand mixer and bakes in either a round cake pan or a square baking pan, so you can serve it however works best for your occasion.

    Whether you are making it for a Mother's Day brunch, a summer gathering, or just because you have buttermilk to use up, this easy gluten free lemon cake is guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.

    If you're looking for more gluten free lemon baking recipes try my Gluten Free Lemon Bundt Cake with Lemon Glaze, my Gluten Free Lemon Olive Oil Cake, my Gluten Free Lemon Blueberry Muffins or my Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Muffins.

    You can find all my cake recipes here: Gluten Free Cake Recipes

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Gluten Free Flour
    • Baking Powder
    • Baking Soda
    • Salt
    • Granulated Sugar
    • Lemon Zest
    • Butter
    • Avocado Oil
    • Buttermilk
    • Eggs
    • Vanilla Extract
    • Powdered Sugar
    • Lemon Juice

    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9" cake pan or 9"x9" baking pan with butter or coconut oil and set aside.

    In a small bowl add the granulated sugar and lemon zest. With your fingers or a spatula rub the zest into the sugar to release the lemon oil into the sugar.

    In the bowl of your stand mixer add the softened butter, vegetable oil and lemon sugar. Blend until combined. Add the eggs, vanilla and buttermilk. Blend until combined.

    In a mixing bowl whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder and salt. Add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in your stand mixer. Blend just until combined.

    Pour the cake batter into your grease 9" cake pan or 9"x9" baking pan and spread evenly.

    Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. The top of the cake will be browned and when you insert a toothpick it will come out clean when the cake is done.

    Let cool for 15 minutes before removing from the cake onto a plate.

    After the cake has cooled in a small bowl whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle the glaze over your cake and serve.

    Supplies


    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Gluten Free Lemon Olive Oil Cake
    • Gluten Free Lemon Bundt Cake with Lemon Glaze
    • Gluten Free Iced Lemon Cookies
    • Gluten Free No Bake Lemon Icebox Pie

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

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    Gluten Free Lemon Buttermilk Cake


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

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    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 45 minutes
    • Yield: 8 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
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    Description

    A tender and moist gluten free lemon buttermilk cake made from scratch with fresh lemon zest, buttermilk, and a combination of butter and avocado oil for the perfect crumb, finished with a simple lemon glaze drizzled over the top. An easy single layer gluten free cake recipe that is bright, fresh, and perfect for any occasion.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 2 cups Gluten Free Flour
    • 1 tsp Baking Powder
    • ½ tsp Baking Soda
    • ½ tsp Salt
    • ¾ cup Granulated Sugar
    • 2 Tbsp Lemon Zest
    • ¼ cup Butter, melted
    • ¼ cup Avocado Oil
    • ½ cup Buttermilk
    • 2 large Eggs
    • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

    Icing:

    • ½ cup Powdered Sugar
    • 1-2 tablespoon Lemon Juice

    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9" cake pan or 9"x9" baking pan with butter or coconut oil and set aside.

    In a small bowl add the granulated sugar and lemon zest. With your fingers or a spatula rub the zest into the sugar to release the lemon oil into the sugar.

    In the bowl of your stand mixer add the softened butter, vegetable oil and lemon sugar. Blend until combined. Add the eggs, vanilla and buttermilk. Blend until combined.

    In a mixing bowl whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder and salt. Add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in your stand mixer. Blend just until combined.

    Pour the cake batter into your grease 9" cake pan or 9"x9" baking pan and spread evenly.

    Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. The top of the cake will be browned and when you insert a toothpick it will come out clean when the cake is done.

    Let cool for 15 minutes before removing from the cake onto a plate.

    After the cake has cooled in a small bowl whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle the glaze over your cake and serve.

    If you made this recipe please leave a star rating and comment below. It helps other readers find this recipe and means so much to me.

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 30 minutes
    • Category: Cake, Dessert
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    If you make this Gluten Free Lemon Buttermilk Cake, I would love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or tag me on Instagram so I can see your beautiful cake.

    This is one of those easy gluten free desserts that deserves a spot in your regular baking rotation, so save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you always have it ready when you need a bright and fresh lemon dessert!

    Storage

    Store the lemon buttermilk cake covered at room temperature for up to two days or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you are storing it in the refrigerator, bring individual slices to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

    This cake also freezes well without the glaze. Wrap the cooled unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer safe bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add the lemon glaze fresh before serving.

    Top Tip

    Do not skip the step of rubbing the lemon zest into the granulated sugar before adding it to the batter. This technique releases the essential oils from the zest directly into the sugar, which infuses every bite of the cake with a much more intense and natural lemon flavor than simply mixing the zest into the batter would give you. It only takes about 30 seconds and it makes a noticeable difference in how bright and lemony the finished cake tastes.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this lemon buttermilk cake ahead of time?

    Yes, this cake is a great make ahead dessert. Bake the cake up to two days in advance and store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Wait to add the lemon glaze until right before you serve it for the freshest presentation. The flavor actually develops and gets even better the day after baking.

    Can I substitute the avocado oil for another oil?

    Yes, any neutral flavored oil will work in place of avocado oil. Vegetable oil or melted coconut oil are both good substitutes and will give you the same moist and tender crumb. Avoid strongly flavored oils like olive oil as they can compete with the lemon flavor in the cake.

    What gluten free flour works best for this recipe?

    Bob's Red Mill 1 to 1 Gluten Free Baking Flour and King Arthur Measure for Measure Gluten Free Flour are the two flours recommended on this site and both work beautifully in this recipe. Avoid single ingredient flours like almond flour or coconut flour as they require different ratios and will not produce the same results.

    Can I bake this cake in a different pan size?

    Yes, this recipe works in either a 9 inch round cake pan or a 9x9 inch square baking pan. If you use a different size pan keep a close eye on the bake time as it may need to be adjusted. Start checking for doneness at the 25 minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake.

    Taco Layer Salad

    This Taco Layer Salad is the ultimate crowd pleasing dish to bring to your next cookout, potluck, or summer gathering. Layers of shredded iceberg lettuce, seasoned taco meat, black beans, sweet onion, Roma tomatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese are piled high in a trifle dish and topped with a thick and creamy homemade ranch dressing that ties every layer together.

    Served with gluten free tortilla chips for scooping, this gluten free taco salad is a hearty and satisfying dish that feeds a crowd and disappears fast every single time.

    a clear trifle dish of layer taco salad next to a cream bowl of gluten free tortilla chips and a tan and white gingham kitchen towel

    What makes this layered taco salad stand out from the rest is the homemade ranch dressing made from scratch with sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk powder, and fresh herbs.

    It is thick, creamy, and so much better than anything from a bottle, and it holds up beautifully as the top layer of the salad without making everything soggy.

    This is the gluten free layer salad your seven layer salad fans are going to love just as much, with all the bold flavors of taco night built right in. Make it ahead, keep it chilled, and let everyone dig in.

    If you're looking for more salad recipes try my Seven Layer Salad, my Chopped Wedge Layer Salad, my High Protein Ranch Broccoli Cauliflower Salad or my Gluten Free BLT Pasta Salad.

    You can find all my salad recipe here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

    a clear trifle dish of layer taco salad next to a cream bowl of gluten free tortilla chips and a tan and white gingham kitchen towel
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Ground Beef
    • Chili Powder
    • Garlic Powder
    • Ground Coriander
    • Ground Cumin
    • Smoked Paprika
    • Salt
    • Black Pepper
    • Iceberg Lettuce
    • Black Beans
    • Sweet Onion
    • Roma Tomatoes
    • Cheddar Cheese
    • Gluten Free Tortilla Chips
    • Ranch Dressing (Use my recipe below for a thick version)

    Instructions

    In a skillet over medium heat add the ground beef. Brown and crumble the ground beef until it's cooked through without any pink left.

    In a small bowl while the beef is cooking whisk together the chili powder, garlic powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.

    Sprinkle the taco spice blend over the cooked ground beef over medium low heat and stir together until the spices are combined with the beef and heated through.

    Remove the taco meat mixture from heat and let cool while you prepare the salad.

    Chop the iceberg lettuce into bite size pieces and add as the first layer in your trifle dish.

    Next add the drained and rinsed black beans, then the chopped sweet onion, next the chopped Roma tomatoes. Then layer on the shredded cheddar cheese.

    In a small bowl make the ranch dressing by whisking together the buttermilk powder, dried parsley flakes, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried chives, dried dill weed, sour cream, mayonnaise and milk. Pour the dressing over the top of the layer salad.

    If you don't want to make this thick ranch dressing you could also purchase ranch dressing, but it will be runnier so I would wait to add the dressing until right before you serve the salad.

    I topped the salad with slices from an avocado, but that's not necessary if you don't want to do that. I serve the salad with gluten free tortilla chips. I like to break mine into pieces and mix with my salad serving.

    Supplies


    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Gluten Free Taco Casserole
    • Gluten Free Walking Taco Casserole
    • Healthy Mexican Street Corn Salad
    • Easy Ground Beef Nacho Casserole

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    Taco Layer Salad


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 30 minutes
    • Yield: 8 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
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    Description

    Layers of shredded iceberg lettuce, seasoned taco meat, black beans, sweet onion, Roma tomatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese topped with a thick and creamy homemade ranch dressing and served with gluten free tortilla chips. This gluten free taco layer salad is the perfect make ahead dish for potlucks, cookouts, and summer gatherings.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 1 pound Ground Beef
    • 1 Tbsp Chili Powder
    • 2 tsp Garlic Powder
    • 2 tsp Ground Coriander
    • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
    • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
    • ½ tsp Salt
    • ½ tsp Black Pepper
    • 1 head Iceberg Lettuce, shredded
    • 16 ounce can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 large Sweet Onion, chopped
    • 4 Roma Tomatoes, chopped
    • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
    • Gluten Free Tortilla Chips

    Ranch Dressing:

    • ⅓ cup Buttermilk Powder
    • 1 Tbsp Dried Parsley Flakes
    • 2 tsp Onion Powder
    • 2 tsp Garlic Powder
    • 1 tsp Salt
    • ½ tsp Black Pepper
    • 1 tsp Dried Chives
    • 1 tsp Dried Dill Weed
    • 1 cup Sour Cream
    • 1 cup Mayonnaise
    • ¼ cup Milk

    Instructions

    In a skillet over medium heat add the ground beef. Brown and crumble the ground beef until it's cooked through without any pink left.

    In a small bowl while the beef is cooking whisk together the chili powder, garlic powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.

    Sprinkle the taco spice blend over the cooked ground beef over medium low heat and stir together until the spices are combined with the beef and heated through.

    Remove the taco meat mixture from heat and let cool while you prepare the salad.

    Chop the iceberg lettuce into bite size pieces and add as the first layer in your trifle dish.

    Next add the drained and rinsed black beans, then the chopped sweet onion, next the chopped Roma tomatoes. Then layer on the shredded cheddar cheese.

    In a small bowl make the ranch dressing by whisking together the buttermilk powder, dried parsley flakes, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried chives, dried dill weed, sour cream, mayonnaise and milk. Pour the dressing over the top of the layer salad.

    If you don't want to make this thick ranch dressing you could also purchase ranch dressing, but it will be runnier so I would wait to add the dressing until right before you serve the salad.

    I topped the salad with slices from an avocado, but that's not necessary if you don't want to do that. I serve the salad with gluten free tortilla chips. I like to break mine into pieces and mix with my salad serving.

    If you made this recipe please leave a star rating and comment below. It helps other readers find this recipe and means so much to me.

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 15 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish, Salads
    • Method: Chopped
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    If you make this Taco Layer Salad, I would love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or tag me on Instagram so I can see your beautiful layers.

    This is one of those recipes that always gets compliments at a gathering, so save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you have it ready for every cookout and potluck on your summer calendar!

    Storage

    Store leftover taco layer salad covered tightly in the trifle dish or transferred to an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the lettuce will soften and the layers will begin to mix together as it sits, so this salad is best served the day it is made or the day after. The ranch dressing can be made separately and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.

    Top Tip

    Let the taco meat cool completely before adding it to the salad layers. Warm meat will wilt the iceberg lettuce and cause the cheese to melt, which affects both the texture and the presentation of the salad. Once the meat is fully cooled, the layers stay clean and distinct all the way down to the bottom of the trifle dish, which is what makes this salad so impressive when you serve it.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this taco layer salad ahead of time?

    Yes, this salad is actually a great make ahead dish. Assemble all the layers up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. If you are concerned about the dressing making the salad soggy, you can also store the ranch dressing separately and add it right before you serve.

    Do I have to use a trifle dish to make this salad?

    A trifle dish is ideal because the clear sides let you see all the beautiful layers, which makes for a stunning presentation at a potluck or gathering. If you do not have one, a large clear glass bowl works just as well. The key is using a deep dish so you have enough room for all the layers.

    Can I use store bought ranch dressing instead of homemade?

    You can use store bought ranch dressing if you are short on time, but the homemade ranch in this recipe is thick and creamy in a way that store bought dressings are not. A thinner store bought dressing will run down through the layers more quickly, so if you go that route wait to add it until right before you serve the salad.

    Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?

    Absolutely. Ground turkey or ground chicken seasoned with the same taco spice blend works beautifully in this recipe. You could also use shredded rotisserie chicken heated up with the taco seasoning for an even quicker version.

    High Protein Ranch Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

    This High Protein Ranch Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is the side dish you will want to bring to every summer gathering this season. Fresh broccoli and cauliflower are tossed with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, red onion, and sunflower seeds, then coated in a creamy homemade ranch dressing made with plain Greek yogurt and buttermilk powder.

    It is packed with protein, full of flavor, and comes together in minutes with no cooking required beyond the bacon.

    a bowl of high protein ranch broccoli cauliflower salad next to a tan and white gingham kitchen towel

    What makes this broccoli cauliflower salad stand out is the dressing. Instead of a mayo based ranch, this recipe uses Greek yogurt as the base, which keeps it creamy and rich while adding a serious protein boost to every serving.

    The homemade ranch seasoning is made from scratch with garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and parsley, so the flavor is so much better than anything from a packet. Make it ahead and let it chill in the refrigerator before serving for the best results.

    If you're looking for more gluten free broccoli recipes try my Sugar Free Broccoli Salad, my Air Fryer Roasted Parmesan Broccoli, my Gluten Free Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake or my Gluten Free Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli.

    You can find all my salad recipes here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

    a bowl of high protein ranch broccoli cauliflower salad next to a tan and white gingham kitchen towel
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Fresh Cauliflower
    • Fresh Broccoli
    • Bacon
    • Red Onion
    • Cheddar Cheese
    • Sunflower Seeds
    • Plain Greek Yogurt
    • Buttermilk Powder
    • Parsley Flakes
    • Onion Powder
    • Garlic Powder
    • Salt
    • Dried Dill Weed
    • Black Pepper
    • Milk

    Instructions

    I like to cook my bacon in the oven. I line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and then lay out the bacon in a single layer. I bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes until the bacon get as crispy as I want it. Let the bacon cool and then chop it into pieces.

    In a large bowl add the bite size cauliflower florets, bite size broccoli florets, bacon, red onion, shredded cheese and sunflower seeds.

    In a small bowl whisk together the plain greek yogurt, buttermilk powder, parsley flakes, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, dried dill weed, black pepper, and milk.

    Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir to combine.

    You can serve immediately, but I like to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes.

    Supplies


    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • High Protein Potato Salad
    • Sugar Free Broccoli Salad
    • Gluten Free Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
    • Air Fryer Roasted Parmesan Broccoli

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    High Protein Ranch Broccoli Cauliflower Salad


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 50 minutes
    • Yield: 8 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
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    Description

    Fresh broccoli and cauliflower tossed with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and a creamy homemade Greek yogurt ranch dressing. This high protein broccoli cauliflower salad is an easy make ahead side dish that is perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, and busy weeknights.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 1 head Fresh Cauliflower, cut into bite size pieces
    • 2 heads Fresh Broccoli, cut into bite size pieces
    • 12 slices Bacon, cooked and chopped
    • 1 small Red Onion, finely diced
    • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
    • ½ cup Sunflower Seeds

    Dressing

    • 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
    • ¼ cup Buttermilk Powder
    • 1 Tbsp Parsley Flakes
    • 1 tsp Onion Powder
    • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
    • ½ tsp Salt
    • ½ tsp Dried Dill Weed
    • ¼ tsp Black Pepper
    • ¼ cup Milk

    Instructions

    I like to cook my bacon in the oven. I line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and then lay out the bacon in a single layer. I bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes until the bacon get as crispy as I want it. Let the bacon cool and then chop it into pieces.

    In a large bowl add the bite size cauliflower florets, bite size broccoli florets, bacon, red onion, shredded cheese and sunflower seeds.

    In a small bowl whisk together the plain greek yogurt, buttermilk powder, parsley flakes, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, dried dill weed, black pepper, and milk.

    Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir to combine.

    You can serve immediately, but I like to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes.

    If you made this recipe please leave a star rating and comment below. It helps other readers find this recipe and means so much to me.

    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cook Time: 30 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish, Salads
    • Method: Chopped
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    If you make this High Protein Ranch Broccoli Cauliflower Salad, I would love to know what you think! Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or tag me on Instagram so I can see it. This is the kind of salad that disappears fast at every gathering, so pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so you always know where to find it.

    Storage

    Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The dressing will continue to soak into the vegetables as it sits, which actually makes it taste even better the next day. Stir before serving and add a splash of milk if you want to loosen the dressing a bit.

    Top Tip

    For the best flavor and texture, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. The resting time allows the dressing to soak into the broccoli and cauliflower and the flavors to come together, making every bite taste so much better than if you serve it right away.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this broccoli cauliflower salad ahead of time?

    Yes, and it is actually better when you do. Make it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The dressing soaks into the vegetables as it chills and the flavors come together beautifully. Give it a good stir before serving.

    Can I use mayo instead of Greek yogurt in the dressing?

    You can substitute mayo for the Greek yogurt if you prefer a more traditional ranch dressing. Keep in mind that swapping the Greek yogurt for mayo will reduce the protein content of the salad. The Greek yogurt version is just as creamy and has a slightly tangy flavor that works really well with the ranch seasoning.

    Do I have to use buttermilk powder in the dressing?

    Buttermilk powder is what gives the dressing that classic ranch flavor, so it is worth tracking down if you can. It is usually found in the baking aisle at most grocery stores. I order my buttermilk powder from Amazon. If you cannot find it, you can substitute an equal amount of dry milk powder and add a small splash of white vinegar to mimic the tangy buttermilk flavor.

    Can I add other vegetables or mix ins to this salad?

    Absolutely. This salad is very flexible. Sliced black olives, diced celery, shredded carrots all make great additions. You can also swap the sunflower seeds for pumpkin seeds or chopped pecans if you want a different crunch.

    Gluten Free Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

    Strawberry shortcake is one of those classic summer desserts that never goes out of style, and this gluten free homemade strawberry shortcake is every bit as good as the original. Fresh strawberries are macerated in sugar until they release a sweet, glossy syrup, then piled high on fluffy drop biscuits made from scratch and finished with a generous cloud of homemade whipped cream.

    Every bite is light, fresh, and absolutely worth the effort.

    a gluten free shortcake biscuit cut in half with sliced strawberries and homemade whipped cream on top in front of a clear glass bowl of sliced strawberries

    The biscuits in this recipe are the real star. Made with buttermilk and eggs and topped with a sprinkle of turbinado sugar before baking, they come out with a lightly crisp top, a tender crumb, and just enough sweetness to complement the fruit.

    Whether you are serving this at a summer cookout, a Fourth of July gathering, or just because strawberries are at peak season, this easy gluten free strawberry shortcake is guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.

    If you are looking for more gluten free strawberry recipes try my Gluten Free Strawberry Muffins, my Gluten Free Strawberry Upside Down Cake, my Gluten Free Strawberry Cobbler or my 3 Ingredient Strawberry Lemonade Mocktail.

    You can find all of my dessert recipes here: Gluten Free Dessert Recipes

    an off white plate with a gluten free shortcake biscuit cut in half with sliced strawberries on the inside and homemade whipped cream on top
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Fresh Strawberries
    • Granulated Sugar
    • Heavy Cream
    • Powdered Sugar
    • Vanilla Extract
    • Gluten Free Flour
    • Baking Powder
    • Salt
    • Baking Soda
    • Buttermilk
    • Eggs
    • Turbinado Sugar Crystals

    Instructions

    In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sliced and hulled strawberries and the sugar. Cover and set in the refrigerator until you're ready to use them.

    Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

    In the bowl of your stand mixer add the gluten free flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, baking soda, buttermilk and eggs. Beat together until all ingredients are incorporated. The dough will be slightly lumpy.

    Using a spatula or tablespoon drop even portions of the dough onto the baking sheet leaving room for the biscuits to spread and rise. I make 7-8 generous sized biscuits with this recipe. Sprinkle the biscuits with the turbinado sugar crystals.

    Bake the biscuits at 375 degrees for 15 minutes. The biscuits will be firm and lightly browned on the bottom when done.

    While the biscuits are baking make the whipped cream. In the bowl of your stand mixer add the heavy cream, sifted powdered sugar and vanilla. Using the whisk attachment beat on medium-high for about 3-4 minutes until soft peaks form.

    Slice the cooled biscuits in half and place in bowls or on plates. Add the strawberries and whipped cream on top and serve immediately.

    Supplies


    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Gluten Free Strawberry Muffins
    • Gluten Free Strawberry Upside Down Cake
    • Gluten Free Strawberry Cobbler
    • 3 Ingredient Strawberry Lemonade Mocktail

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    Gluten Free Homemade Strawberry Shortcake


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    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 40 minutes
    • Yield: 8 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    Fresh strawberries macerated in sugar, fluffy gluten free drop biscuits made from scratch, and homemade whipped cream come together in this classic summer dessert. Simple to make and stunning to serve, this gluten free strawberry shortcake is the perfect way to celebrate strawberry season.


    Ingredients

    Scale

    Strawberries

    • 2 pounds Fresh Strawberries, cored and quartered
    • ¼ cup Granulated Sugar

    Whipped Cream

    • 1 cup Heavy Cream
    • 2 Tbsp Powdered Sugar, sifted
    • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

    Biscuits

    • 2 ½ cups Gluten Free Flour
    • ¼ cup Granulated Sugar
    • 3 tsp Baking Powder
    • 1 tsp Salt
    • ½ tsp Baking Soda
    • 1 ½ cups Buttermilk
    • 2 large Eggs
    • 2 Tbsp Turbinado Sugar Crystals, for topping biscuits

    Instructions

    In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sliced and hulled strawberries and the sugar. Cover and set in the refrigerator until you're ready to use them.

    Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

    In the bowl of your stand mixer add the gluten free flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, baking soda, buttermilk and eggs. Beat together until all ingredients are incorporated. The dough will be slightly lumpy.

    Using a spatula or tablespoon drop even portions of the dough onto the baking sheet leaving room for the biscuits to spread and rise. I make 7-8 generous sized biscuits with this recipe. Sprinkle the biscuits with the turbinado sugar crystals.

    Bake the biscuits at 375 degrees for 15 minutes. The biscuits will be firm and lightly browned on the bottom when done.

    While the biscuits are baking make the whipped cream. In the bowl of your stand mixer add the heavy cream, sifted powdered sugar and vanilla. Using the whisk attachment beat on medium-high for about 3-4 minutes until soft peaks form.

    Slice the cooled biscuits in half and place in bowls or on plates. Add the strawberries and whipped cream on top and serve immediately.

    If you made this recipe please leave a star rating and comment below. It helps other readers find this recipe and means so much to me.

    Notes

    If you can't find liquid buttermilk, I like to use this powdered buttermilk. Follow the direction on the package for how much water to add. It keeps in your refrigerator for quite a while to use in other recipes later.

    • Prep Time: 25 minutes
    • Cook Time: 15 minutes
    • Category: Dessert
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    If you make this gluten free homemade strawberry shortcake, I would love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below and let me know, or tag me on Instagram so I can see your creation. This is one of those recipes you will want to make all summer long, so save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it again when strawberry season is in full swing.

    Storage

    Store the components separately for best results. Biscuits can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The macerated strawberries should be refrigerated and used within two days. Whipped cream is best made fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble just before serving.

    Top Tip

    For the juiciest strawberries, macerate them at least 30 minutes before serving. The longer they sit with the sugar, the more syrup they release, which soaks into the biscuit and makes every bite even better.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this strawberry shortcake ahead of time?

    Yes, but assemble it just before serving. You can macerate the strawberries and bake the biscuits a day ahead. Store the biscuits at room temperature in an airtight container and keep the strawberries refrigerated. Make the whipped cream fresh right before you are ready to serve.

    Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

    Fresh strawberries are strongly recommended for this recipe. Frozen strawberries release too much liquid as they thaw and can make the biscuits soggy. If fresh strawberries are out of season, this is a great recipe to save for when they are at peak ripeness.

    What gluten free flour works best for the biscuits?

    Bob's Red Mill 1 to 1 Gluten Free Baking Flour and King Arthur Measure for Measure Gluten Free Flour both work beautifully in this recipe and are the two flours recommended on this site.

    Can I use store bought whipped cream instead of homemade?

    You can, but homemade whipped cream makes a big difference here. It takes just a few minutes to whip up and the flavor and texture are so much better than anything from a can. If you are short on time, it is still worth making the whipped cream from scratch.

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