Ten Healthy Paleo Recipes

Paleo foods image via shutterstock

Whether you think it’s a fad or a part of a healthy lifestyle, the Paleo “diet” was made popular by CrossFit and has since taken on a life of its own. But if you’re looking for a new way to eat, or simply want to try some healthy recipes made with fresh ingredients, these recipes will keep your inner caveman—and tastebuds—satisfied.

1. Paleo Avocado Turkey Burgers
via Kim’s Healthy Eats

There’s no need to give up burgers, but instead go for lean meats, veggies, and instead of a bun try a lettuce wrap. If you like to make your food ahead of time, try mixing and dividing the burgers and then freeze individually.

2. Chili Lime Chicken Wings
via Nom Nom Paleo

Paleo isn’t boring and this recipe proves it. To cut some fat, marinate and bake the chicken without the skin. If you’re feeling like seafood, try this marinade on shrimp.

3. Grain-Free Cauliflower Tabbouleh with Green Olives
via Gourmande in the Kitchen

This recipe takes out the grain and adds cauliflower for a Paleo-friendly version of tabbouleh. I you don’t like green olives, just leave them out.

4. Coconut Raspberry Dark Chocolate Muffins
via Better with Cake

These sweet treats are good enough to enjoy throughout the day but healthy enough to not derail your morning run. If using frozen raspberries, you’ll need to thaw them completely in order to release the extra liquid that will otherwise make the muffins collapse.

5. Zucchini Pasta with Turkey Bolognese
via Not Enough Cinnamon

Not only is this recipe Paleo-friendly, but it involves jarred tomato sauce so it’s easy to whip up. If you want a leaner dish, use ground turkey breast which only has white meat. But, you’ll need to add a little more olive oil to pan since there will be limited fat in the meat.

6. Spicy Nacho Kale Chips
via Everyday Maven

You can never have too many recipes that curb the craving for something crunchy. Kale chips are a great alternative and they can take on a variety of flavors. It is important to thoroughly wash your kale. There will most likely be sand and dirt on the leaves.

7. Pork Tenderloin with Blueberry Sauce
via Paleo Plan

When you start to get sick of chicken, turn to the other white meat. Pork cooks just as quickly as chicken and it’s great to pair with fruit. If you aren’t a fan of blueberries, try substituting fresh or frozen peaches or blackberries. If using a pre-made grill seasoning, you will not need to add salt.

8. Warm Bay Scallop Salad with Zucchini and Asparagus
via Pineapple and Coconut

To make this recipe Paleo-friendly, you will have to omit the cheese. If you can’t find bay scallops, use anything that’s available and fresh. If you aren’t a fan of scallops, try grilling or baking fish and flaking it into the vegetables.

9. Sausage, Leek and Asparagus Dill Breakfast Casserole
via PaleOMG

Breakfast casseroles are a great idea when you have guests in town. To make this recipe strictly Paleo, you’ll need to swap out the cream for almond milk, rice milk, or coconut milk. Also instead of using regular breakfast sausage, try chicken sausage or lean ground beef instead.

10. Jicama, Beet and Carrot Salad
via Elana’s Pantry

This recipe is a great side dish (try it with the turkey avocado burger) for any Paleo meal. Add herbs like mint or cilantro to brighten the flavor.