Costa Vida Gluten-Free Options (Gluten Free Menu 2023)

Costa Vida is a popular Mexican restaurant chain that offers a range of delicious and fresh meals inspired by coastal Mexican cuisine. But how about gluten-free items? Well, don’t worry! Because the restaurant has a variety of gluten-free options that will make any mealtime an enjoyable experience.

The thing I like best about Costa Vida is that you can easily customize your food; they have a huge selection of ingredients you can mix and match to make a filling meal!

 In this article, we’ll explore the Costa Vida gluten-free options and give tips on ordering them.

How To Order Gluten-Free Items

For individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, ordering food at a restaurant can be a daunting task. We’ll provide some tips and strategies for ordering gluten-free options at a restaurant.

Research the restaurant beforehand

Before going to a restaurant, it’s a good idea to research the menu online to see if they offer any gluten-free options. Many restaurants now have dedicated gluten-free menus or indicate which items on their regular menu are gluten free. By doing some research beforehand, you’ll have a better idea of what options are available and can plan accordingly.

Communicate with the server

When you arrive at the restaurant, it’s important to communicate with your server that you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease. They can provide you with guidance on what menu items are gluten-free or can be modified to be gluten-free. Additionally, they can inform the kitchen of your dietary needs to ensure that your meal is prepared safely.

Ask for a gluten-free menu

Some restaurants have dedicated gluten-free menus that make ordering much easier. If a gluten-free menu is not available, ask your server for guidance on what menu items are gluten-free or can be modified to be gluten-free. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and will work with you to create a safe and delicious meal.

Look for naturally gluten-free options

Some foods are naturally gluten-free, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, grilled meats, and seafood. These options can be a safe bet when dining out, as they are less likely to contain hidden sources of gluten. Additionally, many restaurants now offer gluten-free bread and pasta options.

Beware of cross-contamination

Cross-contamination can occur when gluten-containing foods come into contact with gluten-free foods. This can happen during preparation, cooking, or even serving. It’s important to communicate with your server about your needs to ensure that your meal is prepared safely. Additionally, be cautious of shared cooking surfaces, utensils, and fryers.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions

When in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your server and the restaurant staff are there to help you have an enjoyable dining experience. Asking questions and communicating your needs can help ensure that your meal is safe and delicious.

Gluten Free Options at Costa Vida

Here is a list of Costa Vida gluten-free options:

1. Burritos
2. Salads
3. Enchiladas
4. Tacos
5. Nachos
6. Quesadillas
7. Baja Bowls
8. Kids Meal
9. Sides, Drinks, and Desserts

Gluten-Free Ingredients

The gluten-free menu items listed above are made with these gluten-free ingredients. These items are gluten-free according to Costa Vida’s nutrition and allergen guide.

Gluten-Free Tortilla

• Corn Tortillas
• Soft Corn Tortillas

Chips

• Corn Tortilla Chips

Rice and Beans

• Black Beans
• Cilantro Lime Rice
• Pinto Beans
• Refried Beans

Proteins

• Carnitas Pork
• Chile Verde
• Grilled Chicken
• Grilled Steak
• Mahi Mahi
• Barbacoa Beef
• Shrimp
• Sweet Pork

Sauces

• Raspberry Chipotle Sauce
• Red Enchilada Sauce
• Roasted Green Chili Sauce
• Tomatillo Cilantro Sauce

Dairy

• Shredded Cheese
• Queso

Garnishes

• Lettuce
• Guacamole
• Sour Cream
• Pico de Gallo
• Honey Habanero Salsa
• Lime Wedge
• Mango Salsa
• Pico de Gallo
• Salsa Fresca

Dressings

• Cilantro Lime Dressing
• Mango Dressing
• Salsa Fresca
• Tomatillo Ranch Dressing

Burritos

Gluten-free burritos are made with a large gluten-free tortilla and filled with a choice of meat or vegetarian options, rice, beans, and fresh vegetables. All burrito fillings are gluten free, and the restaurant offers a variety of sauces and toppings to personalize the dish (mentioned above).

Salads

Costa Vida’s salads are gluten free and made with a base of fresh greens and vegetables, and can also be customized with a choice of protein, such as grilled chicken or steak, or vegetarian options, such as beans or avocado. The salads are topped with a gluten free dressing and served with corn tortilla chips on the side.

Enchiladas

Gluten-free enchiladas are made with a corn tortilla that is filled with a choice of protein or vegetarian options and topped with a gluten-free enchilada sauce. The enchiladas are baked until crispy and served with a side of rice and beans.

Tacos

Costa Vida’s gluten-free tacos are made with a soft corn tortilla and a choice of protein or vegetarian options, along with fresh vegetables and a variety of gluten-free sauces and toppings. The tacos are served with a side of rice and beans.

Nachos

These Nachos are made with a base of corn tortilla chips, topped with a choice of protein or vegetarian options, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables. The nachos are served with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and pico de Gallo.

Quesadillas

These Quesadillas are made with a large gluten free corn tortilla that is filled with a choice of protein or vegetarian options, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables.

Baja Bowls

Baja Bowls are made with a base of rice and beans and topped with a choice of protein or vegetarian options, fresh vegetables, and a variety of gluten free sauces and toppings. The Baja Bowls are a filling and healthy option for those who are following a gluten free diet.

Kids Meal

Costa Vida gluten-free options also include a variety of kids meals that are designed to appeal to younger diners. The kids meals are served with a side of rice and beans, and include a choice of protein, such as chicken, steak, or shredded beef, or vegetarian options like beans or cheese. Kids can choose from the following options:

• Kid’s Quesadilla
• Kid’s Enchilada
• Kid’s Taco 
• Kid’s Burrito
• Kid’s Nachos

What is Gluten?

Gluten is a type of protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. It helps give bread and other baked goods their characteristic texture and elasticity. For most people, consuming gluten is not a problem. However, for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, consuming gluten can cause a range of health problems.

Gluten Intolerance 

Gluten intolerance is a condition in which the body has difficulty digesting gluten. Symptoms can include bloating, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which consuming gluten causes the body to attack the small intestine, leading to damage and a range of health problems. These health problems can include malnutrition, anemia, and increased risk of other autoimmune disorders.

In individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, the only effective treatment is to follow a strict gluten free diet. This means avoiding all foods that contain gluten, including bread, pasta, and baked goods. It’s important for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease to read food labels carefully and communicate with restaurant staff to ensure that the food they are consuming is gluten free.

Costa Vida Gluten-Free Options FAQs

Are Costa Vida’s chips gluten-free?

No, Costa Vida’s chips are not gluten free. They are made with flour tortillas.

Are Costa Vida’s sauces gluten-free?

Most of Costa Vida’s sauces are gluten-free. However, it’s important to check with the restaurant staff to ensure that the sauce you are choosing is gluten-free.

Can I customize my order to make it gluten-free?

Yes, you can customize your order to make it gluten-free. For example, you can substitute a flour tortilla for a corn tortilla or a lettuce wrap.

What is gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye that can cause a range of health problems in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Costa Vida Gluten Free Menu – Conclusion

Overall, Costa Vida’s menu options are a great addition for individuals who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. By using fresh, high-quality ingredients and offering a variety of naturally gluten-free options, Costa Vida has created a menu that is both safe and satisfying for individuals who need to follow a gluten-free diet. Whether you’re in the mood for a salad, burrito, or enchilada, Costa Vida has something for everyone.

By communicating with the restaurant staff and being aware of the potential for cross-contamination, you can enjoy a delicious and worry-free meal at Costa Vida. So, whether you’re a long-time customer or a first-time visitor, be sure to check out Costa Vida’s gluten-free options and savor the flavors of Mexican cuisine without the worry of gluten.