Homemade Gluten-Free Sausage Rolls: Your Perfect Companion for a Glorious Fall Picnic
Experience the ultimate in savory satisfaction with these delectable gluten-free sausage rolls. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of crispy, flaky pastry and a rich, meaty filling, bursting with umami flavor. Whether you prefer them as convenient appetizer-sized bites or classic full-length rolls, they are an ideal choice for quick snacks, memorable picnics, or nutritious packed lunches. As you read on, prepare to be inspired by vibrant photos of an enchanting fall picnic, showcasing these scrumptious nibbles alongside an array of other fantastic outdoor dining delights.
We’ve been incredibly fortunate to enjoy some truly magnificent fall weather lately. The sun shines brilliantly, illuminating the rich, fiery palette of autumn leaves, painting the landscape in breathtaking hues. This glorious season simply beckons for outdoor adventures, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful picnic?
Join us for a visual journey through our recent get-together with our wonderful blogging friends, Nicoletta and Loreto from the charming blog ‘SugarLoveSpices’. We gathered for a fantastic fall picnic on a beautiful September Sunday afternoon. Loreto, with his keen eye for scenic spots, discovered the perfect location for us at the Strathearn Drive Lookout. From there, we were treated to a stunning panoramic view of the North Saskatchewan River winding its way through the valley, with Edmonton’s iconic downtown skyline shimmering in the distance. The fall foliage was just beginning to unfurl in all its breathtaking glory, and the warm sun kissed our faces as we shared stories, laughter, and, of course, our delectable picnic spread.
There’s an undeniable romance and soul-nourishing quality to enjoying a picnic outdoors in a beautiful setting. For me, autumn truly is the quintessential season for such an experience. There’s a profound richness to this time of year, almost as if Mother Nature is begging us to bask in the sunshine and savor her last spectacular hurrah before she gently tucks the world into its winter slumber. Since childhood, I’ve always felt a heightened sense of aliveness during fall – it remains my absolute favorite season. It brings a deep feeling of fulfillment and a kind of inner quickening – an urgency to inhale that crisp autumn air and immerse myself fully in every fleeting moment and every stunning vista.
After the intense heat of summer, autumn feels like a refreshing awakening. My steps become a bit quicker, more purposeful, and my eyes sparkle with renewed vigor. Some of my most cherished autumn memories involve quietly tromping through golden-leaved forests with my dad on hunting trips, or recalling the bustling yet immensely rewarding fall harvest season from my farm upbringing. Everyone’s hands were busy, gathering the abundant bounty from the fields and garden. Our reward was the profound satisfaction of preparing and preserving food, knowing it would sustain our family through the upcoming winter months.
This fall, we’ve been equally busy with our own garden. Taking a pause from the work to spend an afternoon enjoying a wonderful picnic with friends amidst these stunning, fall-bedecked surroundings is one of those precious moments that truly makes life feel special and profound. It serves as a beautiful reminder that we need to embrace such opportunities much more often.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t adore a fantastic feast savored in the crisp, fresh air?
As avid food bloggers, we thoroughly enjoyed collaborating on our picnic menu, focusing on dishes that were both simple to prepare and easy to transport. Finger foods and delightful, easy-to-nibble snacks truly make for the most enjoyable picnic experience.
Our ‘Fall Leaves Picnic’ Menu
Appetizer Selections
A delightful Charcuterie Platter featuring Whiskey Cheddar, flavorful Salami, delicate Prosciutto, briny Olives, crunchy Walnuts, and Pistachios for a balanced start.
Homemade Hummus served with an assortment of nut crackers and crisp carrot sticks.
Main Course Highlights
Our signature Gluten-Free Sausage Rolls (recipe included below) – a true crowd-pleaser.
Spinach Frittata Rolls from SugarLoveSpices, offering a vibrant, savory alternative.
A fresh and zesty Coleslaw, providing a perfect crunchy counterpoint to the rolls.
Sweet Endings
Our portable and delicious Gluten-Free Apple Slab Pie, a quintessential autumn dessert.
Macedonia Fruit Salad, a colorful and refreshing mix of the freshest seasonal fruits.
Beverage Selection
Sparkling Non-Alcoholic Bubbly Sangria to toast the occasion.
Refreshing Ginger Beer, sparkling water, and a comforting thermos of hot herbal tea for a warm pick-me-up.
Appetizer: We opted for a straightforward charcuterie platter, focusing on quality over quantity. One excellent cheese, a couple of favorite cold cuts, a mix of olives, and some nuts proved to be the ideal simple yet sophisticated start for our outdoor meal.
Main: For the main course, I prepared my much-loved gluten-free sausage rolls (the detailed recipe follows). These are a staple in our home; I often keep a batch in the freezer, ready to be pulled out for a quick appetizer or a last-minute addition to packed lunches. What makes these sausage rolls truly exceptional for a picnic is how wonderfully they taste at room temperature. The crust maintains its delightful crispiness, and the sausage filling is rich and savory, without the excessive saltiness often found in commercial versions. They also pack incredibly well, making them ideal for transport. Nicoletta and Loreto contributed their absolutely delicious Spinach Frittata Rolls, which were bursting with umami flavor. These fantastic rolls are also gluten-free, made with a savory egg batter infused with tomato paste, baked until tender, and then carefully rolled around a luscious cream cheese filling generously mixed with fresh spinach. They are incredibly flavorful and were a perfect complement to our picnic spread.
Both types of rolls were served alongside a simple, yet wonderfully crunchy and refreshing coleslaw. (Coleslaw Recipe: To prepare this easy side, combine 1 lb. (5½ cups) shredded cabbage, ¼ of a medium onion thinly sliced, 1 stalk celery thinly sliced diagonally, 2 shredded carrots, and ½ an unpeeled, diced apple. Toss these ingredients with a dressing made from: ¼ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 2 teaspoons honey or 1 tablespoon sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.)
Dessert: What could possibly be better for an autumn gathering than apples? Our fresh and highly portable version of a classic apple pie was a perfect fit for the picnic – a splendid gluten-free Apple Slab Pie with Buttery Streusel Topping. We served it alongside Nicoletta’s vibrant and colorful Macedonia Fruit Salad, which showcased all the freshest fall fruits sourced directly from the local farmer’s market.
Beverages: We joyfully raised our glasses in a toast with a non-alcoholic Bubbly Sangria, and then leisurely sipped on ginger beer and sparkling water throughout the afternoon. Ever prepared for a cooler breeze, we also packed a thermos of hot herbal tea, just in case anyone desired a warm and comforting pick-me-up.
A little bit of playful clowning around always adds to the fun and memory-making. This is precisely what happens when the camera person joyfully calls out, ‘Okay, everyone, yoga poses!’ The result is pure, unadulterated hilarity.
What to Pack for a Pretty Perfect Picnic
Careful preparation is key to ensuring your picnic is a thoroughly enjoyable and stress-free experience. Beyond your chosen food and beverage items, a well-stocked picnic basket or cooler can make all the difference. We highly recommend opting for environmentally friendly, unbreakable, and reusable dishes and utensils made from plastic, tin, or bamboo, rather than disposable ones, to minimize your environmental footprint and enhance your picnic’s charm.
- A picnic basket or an insulated cooler: Essential for transporting your delicious food and keeping perishables fresh.
- Ice packs: Crucial for maintaining optimal coolness for all your ingredients and drinks.
- Thermos for hot drinks: Especially welcome if the weather is cool, offering a comforting warm beverage.
- Resealable plastic containers: Perfect for safely transporting various food items without spills.
- Plates: Durable enamel tin, plastic, or bamboo plates are ideal for outdoor use.
- Cutlery: Choose from sturdy plastic, metal, or bamboo options that can be reused.
- Glasses or mugs: Acrylic or plastic glasses, or traditional tin mugs, are safe and practical.
- Napkins: Cloth napkins add a touch of elegance and are eco-friendly; paper napkins are also convenient.
- Small tin or wooden serving bowls: Great for presenting salads, snacks, or condiments beautifully.
- Serving spoons, forks, or tongs: Bring these if your menu requires them for easy serving.
- Wooden cutting board: A versatile item for both serving cheeses or meats and safely cutting food.
- Sharp knife: Essential for slicing (remember to wrap it securely in a tea towel or napkin for safety).
- Can opener: Don’t forget this if your menu includes canned items.
- Large tablecloth or picnic blanket: For laying out your feast and creating a dedicated dining area.
- Additional picnic blankets: For comfortable seating, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the setting.
- Plastic bag for garbage: Always remember to pack out what you pack in; leave no trace.
- Plastic bag for dirty dishes: Keeps dirty items separate and makes cleanup easier when you get home.
- Paper towel or cloth rags: Indispensable for accidental spills and quick clean-ups.
- Wipes, hand sanitizer, or damp cloths in zip-top plastic bags: For maintaining hand hygiene before and after eating.
- Fresh flowers or branches of leaves: An optional but lovely touch that truly elevates the ambiance and beauty of your picnic spot.
After your meal, we highly recommend taking a leisurely walk to explore your beautiful surroundings. However, if you prefer to simply relax and enjoy the view, consider bringing a few extra items:
- Folding camp chairs: Provide comfortable seating for extended relaxation and scenic enjoyment.
- A deck of cards or a simple board game: Great for light entertainment and friendly competition.
- Favorite reading material or sketching materials: For those who enjoy quiet reflection and creative expression.
- A camera: To capture the wonderful experience and seize opportunities for nature photography.
- A small backpack: Handy for carrying water and a snack if you plan a longer post-picnic walk.
After the Picnic, it’s Time to Relax & Enjoy the View
We sincerely hope that our picnic story inspires you to carve out some precious time from your busy lives. Gather a cherished friend or a few beloved family members, pack up a delicious picnic, and head to a beautiful spot that brings you immense joy. Whether you meticulously prepare special nibbles, as we did, or simply grab a sandwich, some crackers, cheese, and fresh apples, the experience of enjoying a meal outdoors, with the sun warming your face, makes life feel undeniably lighter and brighter. You’ll be creating treasured memories that will warm your heart for years to come.
Indeed, we all need to incorporate more of these delightful picnic moments into our lives.
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For more inspiration and delightful recipes from our picnic, be sure to head over to SugarLoveSpices. You can read Nicoletta and Loreto’s charming account of our day and discover their scrumptious recipes.
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Here’s How to Make These Tasty Little Gluten-Free Sausage Rolls
Creating these delightful gluten-free sausage rolls is a straightforward process that yields incredibly rewarding results. First, you’ll prepare the savory sausage filling: gently fry a finely diced onion until translucent, then combine it with lean ground pork, your favorite gluten-free sausage meat, and a blend of aromatic spices like sage and nutmeg. While the filling cools, whip up a batch of our easy-to-handle gluten-free pastry. Divide the dough and roll each portion into a long, even rectangle, approximately 5½ inches wide and 12 inches long, providing the perfect canvas for your filling.
Once the filling is nestled into the pastry, you’ll roll them up, brush with an egg wash, and, if desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added touch of texture and flavor. Then, with a gentle hand, cut each long roll into desired sections – shorter ones for charming mini sausage rolls perfect for appetizers, or longer pieces for a more traditional presentation.
Bake the rolls until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown hue and the pastry is perfectly crisp. After a brief cooling period in the pan to allow the flavors to meld and the crust to set, slice through the pre-cut sections to separate them fully. Transfer them to a cooling rack to finish, and your incredibly delicious gluten-free sausage rolls are ready to be savored.
Whether you choose to prepare these incredible Gluten-Free Sausage Rolls for a delightful picnic, to serve as an impressive appetizer for a gathering, or to have readily available in your freezer for convenient lunchbox packing, you will undoubtedly be pleased with the outcome. They are consistently a popular favorite, always disappearing quickly whenever I serve them as appetizers. The sausage filling is wonderfully rich and intensely flavorful, yet perfectly balanced and not overly salty, contrasting beautifully with the gorgeous, flaky, and exceptionally crisp crust. Mmmmm, they are simply the ideal kind of savory nibble for any occasion. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re such a hit!
So, who’s ready for a picnic?
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Gluten Free Sausage Rolls
Margaret Bose Johnson
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Equipment
- a 12-inch (30cm) ruler
Ingredients
for the sausage filling:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic
- 13 oz. (375gms) gluten-free sausage meat, from breakfast sausages or your favourite sausage meat
- 1 lb. (454gms) lean ground pork
- ½ cup (80gms) fine, dry bread crumbs, gluten-free
- 2 teaspoons ground sage
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
for the gluten-free pastry:
- ½ cup (120ml) water
- ¼ cup (30gms) ground flax seeds
- 3 cups (420gms) gluten-free flour blend or regular flour for non-gluten-free
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup (200gms) lard chilled
- ¼ cup (60ml) plain yogurt
- 4 teaspoons sesame seeds optional
- 1 egg
Instructions
make the sausage roll filling:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare two rimmed baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends about 1 inch (2.5cm) up each side.
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat, preparing for the aromatics.
- Add the finely diced onions to the hot oil and cook for approximately 5 minutes, until they become soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just 1 minute more, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Remove from heat and allow the onions to cool to lukewarm before proceeding.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled onions, lean ground pork, gluten-free sausage meat, fine dry breadcrumbs, ground sage, ground nutmeg, fine sea salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Divide this mixture evenly into 4 portions (you can pat the mixture into a bowl and cut it into four wedges with a butter knife for even portions). Set aside.
make the pastry crust:
- Stir the ground flax seeds into the water and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to form a gel, which acts as a binder.
- In a large bowl, measure out the gluten-free flour blend and salt. Add the chilled lard, cut into small chunks, to the flour mixture.
- Using a pastry cutter or two butter knives, cut the lard into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of lard remaining.
- Add the plain yogurt and the flax gel to the flour mixture. Stir lightly with a fork to partially combine, then use your fingertips to gently rub the flour into the fat. Work quickly with a light touch until the dough just comes together. Transfer the dough to a clean work surface and knead it 3 to 4 times to form a cohesive ball.
- Divide the ball of dough into 4 equal pieces, then roll each piece into a cylinder approximately 6 inches (15cm) long.
- Working with one piece of dough at a time on a lightly floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle measuring about 5½ inches (14cm) wide and 12 inches (30cm) long. Use a ruler to gently press against the edges to straighten them, or trim off any wider pieces and carefully patch them onto narrower sections of the rectangle to maintain an even shape.
make the sausage rolls:
- Take one section of the prepared sausage meat filling and form it into a log along the center of the rolled-out dough rectangle, running lengthwise.
- In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg with a fork. Brush some of this beaten egg along one long edge of the dough rectangle.
- Carefully bring the other long side of the dough up and over the sausage log. You can use the ruler to gently assist in lifting and supporting the dough as you bring it over. Roll the log tightly so that the dough overlaps the egg-brushed edge, sealing the filling inside. Gently squeeze and shape the log into an even, uniform roll, patting together any small cracks that may form in the pastry.
- Using the ruler for support, carefully transfer the formed sausage roll onto one of your prepared baking sheets. Brush the entire roll generously with more beaten egg and, if you’re using them, sprinkle evenly with sesame seeds.
- Repeat this process with the remaining 3 pieces of dough and sausage meat, placing two logs onto each baking sheet.
- Gently make 8 shallow cuts into each log, dividing it into 8 sections. It’s perfectly fine if you don’t cut completely through the dough at this stage; this step merely helps to define the individual sausage rolls and allows heat to penetrate more evenly during baking. You will end up with 32 mini sausage roll bites.
Alternatively, for larger, more traditional sausage rolls, you can cut each log into 3 or 4 larger pieces.
- Bake the sausage rolls for 35 to 40 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and the pastry is crisp. (If you are using regular flour, start checking them at 30 minutes, as they may brown more quickly.) You might notice some fat pooling around the rolls; this is normal. Allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes after baking; this allows the melted fat to re-absorb into the pastry, contributing to an even crispier crust. After 10 minutes, slice through each of the pre-made cuts again to fully separate the rolls into individual pieces, then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- These versatile sausage rolls can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week, and can also be frozen for convenient storage for up to 6 months.
- This recipe yields approximately 32 mini sausage rolls (or between 12-16 larger, traditional sausage rolls).
Notes
While you can substitute butter or shortening for the lard in this recipe, traditional lard is highly recommended for achieving the crispiest, flakiest crust – a characteristic favored in classic pork pies and sausage rolls.
You have flexibility with the sausage meat: you can either purchase loose sausage meat directly or buy your favorite uncooked sausage links and simply remove the casing to use the flavorful meat inside.
Guten Appetit!
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A Few Other Great Picnic Food Ideas
Here are some more delightful main dishes perfect for your next outdoor feast:
- Gluten-Free Empanadas
- Cold Fried Chicken
- Boiled Eggs or Pickled Eggs
- Hearty Sandwiches
- Delicious Egg Salad or flavorful Tuna Salad served with Crackers or fresh bread
- Gluten-Free Beef Sausage Rolls with Rice Paper Wrappers
- Spinach and Salmon Salad Rolls
- Apple & Shrimp Summer Rolls
- Tuna or Sardine Pâté served alongside crisp crackers
- Creamy Hummus with crunchy Tortilla Chips & fresh Veggie Sticks
- Zesty Guacamole or vibrant Fresh Salsa & crispy Tortilla Chips
Easy-to-pack snacks for any picnic basket:
- Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
- All-Dressed Popcorn Party Mix
- Sweet Prunes with Peanut Butter
Delightful sweet treats to complete your picnic:
- Oat Fudge Bars (Just like Starbucks!)
- No-Bake Chewy Chocolate Almond Bars
- Homemade Granola Bars
- A variety of Energy Balls: Matcha Green Tea, Apricot-Orange, Maple-Walnut, Gingerbread or Chocolate
- Healthy Fudge
- Welsh Cakes
- Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies
- Ginger Molasses Crinkle Cookies