Very few things make us feel quite so nice as warm cookies. When those cookies happen to be our giant Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies? Well, let's just say I've never seen a plate of vegetables disappear so fast as when one of these are on the line!

What is gluten and why is gluten-free so special, you ask? Gluten is the product of two proteins, gliadin and glutenin, found in some cereal grains (like wheat). It causes the chewy/elastic texture we love so much in our breads. For someone with gluten-intolerance (celiac disease) or gluten-sensitivity, eating gluten can cause a range of problems - stomach discomfort, trouble absorbing nutrients, and intestinal damage to name a few.

But you aren't gluten-intolerant or sensitive? While a completely gluten-free diet is not recommended for those who don't have trouble with the proteins, there's no harm in enjoying some of the fun flavors and treats made with gluten-free foods! Check it out for yourself with the information and recipes below.

Did you know:

-One in 141 people (or less than roughly 1% of the population) have celiac disease.

-Gluten-intolerance and wheat allergy are not the same thing, and, luckily, many children (about65%) outgrow a wheat allergy by age 12.

-North American varieties of wheat contain more gluten than those grown in Europe

Breakfast:

Pear and Bacon Casserole

Lunch:

Chicken Salad Pita

Dinner:

Cookie-Crusted Beef

Dessert:

Strawberry Cookie Parfait