Tell us about yourself, your inspirations, and where you live.

My name is Christina Kantzavelos. Traveling and health-conscious living is what fuels my soul. I created BuenQamino to document my travels, and my gluten-free, celiac and chronic illness healing journey and lifestyle, in hopes of and inspiring others. I lived in San Diego until last year, and am currently a digital nomad, living in Northern California. 

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What are some staples in your fridge? How do you like to prepare them?

Mostly fruits and vegetables from Sage Mountain's CSA box, plus gluten-free tempeh, plant-based cheeses, gluten-free breads, and condiments. I’ll cook the produce or eat it raw, depending what I'm in the mood for and where my energy level is at the time I'm tête-à-tête with the fridge.

Image: BuenQamino.

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What's in your pantry and what’s your go-to way to use these items? 

My pantry mostly has gluten-free flours (over 20 varieties) and staples like unrefined sugars, sauces, syrups, spices, oils, salts, etc. I make the yummiest baked goods and toppings with all of them.

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What are your essential kitchen tips, shortcuts, and tools? 

My essentials are nontoxic Caraway pans and a variety of oils and spices. My Vitamix, juicer, toaster oven, and ceramic knives are my MVPs.

Image: BuenQamino.

What are you interested in cooking and or eating lately?

I've been loving my daily kale chips and avocado fries! (See link to Avocado Fries recipe below)

Baked and Breaded Avocado Fries. Image: Ashley Sabra Werbel.

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Have you had a good drink recently? 

I've been making a lot of CBD cocktails at home. 

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Are you enjoying seasonal ingredients or dishes? 

Yes, always. 

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What do you love about San Diego's food scene?

How diverse it is! I love that it’s a border city and melting pot.

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Where do you like to grocery shop?

I am a fan of CSA boxes, farmers’ markets, and health food stores like Lazy Acres.

Image: BuenQamino.


Would you like to give a shout-out to a favorite local grower or farm?

Sage Mountain Farm is one of my favorites! 

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What steps do you take to support a sustainable food system and why are these values important to you? 

I try to buy local, seasonal, and organic items. I like to vote with my dollar as I believe it's an effective tool in creating change.


Be sure to try Christina’s gluten-free and vegan Crispy Oven-Baked Avocado Fries.

You can also follow her Instagram @buenqamino and purchase her daily healing journal.

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