This is the third post in our allergy elimination diet series.

Hello, hello!  At time of posting, I am in the deep South and heading deeper, talking myself hoarse with my best friend, preparing to spend the week with both sets of family, and glorying in uninterrupted time with my husband.  I’ll be doing my best to post updates and pictures of our continuing adventures in the weeks to come!

Now, let’s talk about you!  At least, some of you; the moment has come to start your allergy elimination diet! You have talked to your doctor (or decided to be a rogue agent), you’ve carefully considered the costs and inconveniences and determined that this is the course for you.  Hooray!  To help you along and inspire your own culinary creativity, I have provided a sample menu for the week below.  It seems a bit elaborate, I know!  I just wanted to show that you still have amazing options available to you, in spite of all the restrictions.  You can keep things simple or go hog wild with all the recipes and links I’ve provided:  do what works for you and allows you to stay committed to the a.e.d for the next 28 days!  Even if you don’t use my exact plan (and, honestly, 99% of people would not), have a plan, something definite to fall back on when you are experiencing some food withdrawals and are ravenous.  Strive for variety; a broad spectrum of foods will keep your palate interested and help ensure you are getting all the nutrients necessary.  After the menu I’ll be going into a few time saving and preparation ideas.  Notice I’ve left some open spaces; use your own creativity and fill in the blanks! (Click on the image below to open the PDF and access recipe links).

So, time saving tips:

1. Put all beans on to soak at the same time, then cook them at the same time (in separate pots).  Do this on the weekend and simply pull them out of the fridge as needed.

2. Try to process (wash and cut as necessary) any fruits and veg before storing (except berries and things that need to be kept dry until eaten).

3. If you really like oatmeal, make a large pot at the beginning of the week; oats warm up beautifully with the addition of hot liquid!

4.Try making dips, spreads, and sauces ahead of time.

5. Fix snack packs ahead of time for the whole week and have them ready to pull out of the fridge before leaving home in the morning.

I know it sounds like a lot to do, but if you get all of it out of the way on a Saturday or Sunday, weekday meal prep will goes loads faster! And now, good luck, happy (healthy) eating, and I’ll be seeing you soon.