I have always been somewhat puzzled about the need for a gate resistor on a MOSFET, especially when not using PWM or other similar drive signals. Here is an interesting explanation which seems to indicate that no gate resistor is required in such circumstances. It also indicates that gate resistors can be higher in resistance than often used. In the case of a microcontroller output used to gate a MOSFET, it would seem that a gate resistor in the 300 ohm range could serve to protect the uC in the event of a MOSFET failure.
http://irf.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/215
http://irf.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/215