The Ultimate Paleo Guide to Christmas Dinner
So on the face of it you might be thinking Paleo and Christmas don’t go together. Perhaps you need to have a week or two “off” your Paleo diet until the festivities are over? Not so fast! Your Christmas Dinner might just be a lot more Paleo than you realised!
Turkey
Turkey is a fantastic Paleo meat! Make sure your turkey is from a good source and fully pastured (you might need to order this in advance to ensure you get a good one!) and you’ll have a great high protein, low carb meat to base your lunch around.
Gravy
Use the meat juices to make a beautifully Paleo gravy. Once you’ve made a proper gravy, you’ll wonder how you used to eat instant gravy mixes!
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce and turkey is an amazing combination – and of course cranberries are Paleo – just make your own sauce instead of buying a sugar laden version, perfect for Christmas dinner
Paleo Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 750ml (3 cups) of cranberries
- Juice of two oranges
- 1 tsp orange zest, finely grated
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Paleo Cranberry Sauce How To:
Boil the orange juice and add the cranberries. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5 – 10 minutes until the berries have all burst and released their flavour. Remove from the heat and add the cinnamon and zest. Stir and allow to cool before refrigerating. Will keep for a few days in the fridge.
Potatoes
Potatoes are off the menu – but all is not lost! Just replace them with sweet potatoes which are perhaps even more delicious.
Brussels Sprouts
Sprouts are a perfect green, so pile them up high! If you’re not so keen on the taste try cooking them up with a bit of ginger for a great taste.
Christmas Pudding
Traditional Christmas puddings are often very wheat and sugar based – but who says you have to be traditional? How about chocolate avocado mousse for afters?
Creating the Ultimate Paleo Christmas Experience
While it might take a little extra planning, a truly delicious and satisfying Christmas meal that’s entirely Paleo-friendly is absolutely within reach. From festive drinks and snacks to innovative side dishes and decadent desserts, there are endless ways to celebrate the season without breaking from your healthy lifestyle.
Festive Starters to Kick Off the Meal
It’s easy to get stuck on the mains, but a good starter sets the tone for the whole feast. Impress your guests and satisfy your hunger with options like:
- Prawn skewers with lime and coriander: A refreshing seafood starter perfect for an Aussie summer Christmas.
- Devilled eggs with avocado and paprika: A creamy and satisfying bite with festive flair.
- Charcuterie board: Use nitrate-free cured meats, olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber spears, and raw nuts to build a Paleo-friendly grazing platter.
Christmas Vegetables – The Paleo Way
Skip the marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes and grain-laden stuffings. This year, focus on whole, seasonal vegetables prepared in ways that enhance their natural flavour. Try:
- Maple-roasted carrots and parsnips: Tossed in coconut oil and a drizzle of 100% pure maple syrup, these are a sweet and savoury hit.
- Cauliflower gratin: Replace traditional cheese sauce with one made from cashews, nutritional yeast, and almond milk for a creamy bake.
- Roasted beetroot with thyme: Earthy, vibrant, and packed with nutrients, beets bring colour and flavour to the table.
Fresh Summer Salads for the Southern Hemisphere
For those of us celebrating Christmas under the sun, a crisp salad is the perfect addition to a warm weather meal. Some ideas include:
- Watermelon, cucumber and mint salad: Light, hydrating and festive in colour.
- Roasted pumpkin and spinach salad: Add toasted pepitas and a lemon-tahini dressing for extra zing.
- Shaved fennel and apple slaw: Crunchy, sweet and ideal for cutting through the richness of roast meats.
Paleo-Friendly Stuffing Alternatives
Traditional stuffing is a no-go on Paleo, but you can still recreate the flavours you love with a few simple swaps. Use a mix of ground nuts, vegetables, and herbs for a nutrient-rich alternative. One easy combo:
- 1 cup almond meal
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 egg (to bind)
- Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary and parsley
Mix, stuff into your turkey or bake separately for a crisp top and soft centre.
Celebratory Drinks That Stay on Track
Let’s face it — drinks are often where a lot of hidden sugar creeps in. This Christmas, swap sugar-laden punch and soft drinks for refreshing, low-sugar options like:
- Kombucha cocktails: Mix plain kombucha with lime juice and a sprig of rosemary for a grown-up mocktail. Add vodka if you’re including alcohol.
- Infused waters: Think strawberries and basil, or cucumber with lemon and mint.
- Iced herbal teas: Brew rooibos or hibiscus tea, chill, and serve over ice with citrus slices.
Decadent Paleo Desserts for a Sweet Finish
Just because you’re skipping sugar and grains doesn’t mean dessert has to be dull. A few indulgent options:
- Paleo pavlova: Made with whipped coconut cream and topped with fresh summer berries. You can find variations that use coconut sugar or monk fruit as a sweetener.
- Spiced poached pears: Cook pears in a blend of orange juice, cloves, cinnamon and star anise for a warm and elegant dish.
- Chocolate coconut truffles: Blitz dates, cacao powder, and shredded coconut in a food processor, roll into balls and refrigerate.
Gifting With a Healthy Twist
Food-based gifts can still be Paleo! Surprise friends and family with treats like:
- Jars of homemade almond butter spiced with cinnamon
- Sun-dried tomato and olive tapenade
- Raw energy balls in festive wrapping
These thoughtful gifts support your healthy values and show others how delicious clean eating can be.
Mindful Eating During the Festive Season
It’s not just what you eat that matters, but how you eat it. Slowing down, chewing thoroughly, and staying present during meals can help you enjoy your food more and avoid overeating. Remember to listen to your hunger cues and take breaks between servings.
Leftovers That Last
One of the perks of hosting is having leftovers. Instead of letting them go to waste, plan creative meals like:
- Turkey lettuce wraps: Add avocado, shredded veggies, and a squeeze of lime.
- Sweet potato hash: Combine leftover roasted veg with eggs for a Boxing Day brunch.
- Bone broth: Use your turkey carcass to make a healing, collagen-rich broth for soups and sauces.
Celebrate the Season, Your Way
Ultimately, your Christmas doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. If you love a fully traditional spread, tweak it to be Paleo-compliant. If you prefer something fresh and modern, build a menu from scratch. What matters most is how the food makes you feel — energised, nourished, and joyful.
How are you making your Christmas meal Paleo this year? Whether you’ve got a creative twist on a classic or a brand new favourite to share, I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below!
Paleo Griddled Tuna Steaks with Coriander
When cooking tuna steaks, only the best will do for my Griddled Tuna Steaks. Buy ‘Sushi Grade’ tuna, which you can effectively eat raw, and cook it to medium. This way, the fish will do the talking, and you won’t need overpowering sauces or marinades to make it palatable. This simple yet flavourful recipe is perfect for showcasing the quality of the tuna. The combination of coriander, capers, and lime creates a light and refreshing dressing that complements the natural taste of the fish. Creating these Griddled Tuna Steaks with Coriander and Capers allows you to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal that aligns with your Paleo lifestyle. The simplicity of the recipe lets the high-quality tuna shine, while the light dressing adds a refreshing touch. This dish is perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner.
Griddled Tuna Steaks with Coriander and Capers
Equipment
- Griddle pan
- Food processor or blender
Ingredients
- 2 sushi grade tuna steaks
- 1 small handful fresh coriander roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp capers rinsed and dried
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 spring onions trimmed and chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- First, heat a griddle to a very high heat and brush with a little olive oil.
- Next, whizz together all the ingredients, bar the tuna, to form a light dressing. Set aside.
- When the griddle is really hot and the oil is smoking, throw on the tuna steaks. Sear for 1 and a half minutes on each side, so still pink in the middle.
- Remove from the heat, and drizzle with the dressing.
Moreover, this recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. It’s an excellent option for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal, ensuring everyone can enjoy a nutritious and flavourful dish. For more delicious Paleo recipes, don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media! Let us know how you enjoyed these Griddled Tuna Steaks with Coriander and Capers in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Benefits of Tuna
Tuna is one of the most nutrient-dense seafood choices you can include in a Paleo diet. Rich in high-quality protein, it supports muscle repair and satiety, making it a great option for those focused on energy and body composition. It’s also a superb source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and may even contribute to clearer skin and enhanced cognitive function. By opting for sushi-grade tuna, you’re not only enhancing flavour, but you’re also avoiding harmful additives and preservatives that are often found in more processed varieties.
Perfecting Your Griddle Technique
To get the best texture and flavour, preheat your griddle or grill pan until it’s searing hot. Lightly oil the tuna steaks and season them with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper just before cooking. For medium doneness, cook each side for approximately 1½ to 2 minutes. This quick sear preserves the tuna’s juicy centre while giving a beautiful outer char. If you prefer your steak a little more rare in the middle (which many sushi lovers do), reduce the time slightly to achieve that perfect blush-pink interior.
Side Dishes That Complement Tuna Steaks
Griddled Tuna Steaks pair beautifully with a wide range of Paleo-friendly sides. Try serving them alongside roasted sweet potato wedges, a crisp Asian-style slaw, or grilled asparagus with lemon zest. A fresh cucumber and avocado salad with a squeeze of lime and a pinch of sea salt adds a cooling element that works particularly well with the coriander and caper dressing. You could also spoon some zesty cauliflower rice underneath the steak for a low-carb, nutrient-packed option that soaks up the juices perfectly.
Sustainability and Sourcing
Where your tuna comes from matters — not only for taste, but for the health of our oceans too. Look for wild-caught tuna, ideally pole-and-line or troll-caught, to ensure sustainable fishing practices are being followed. Overfishing and by-catch are serious issues with industrial tuna fishing, so taking a little extra time to find an ethical supplier pays off in both quality and environmental impact. Many speciality fishmongers or online seafood suppliers in Australia now offer transparent sourcing information.
Storing and Using Leftovers
If you have any leftover cooked tuna, don’t let it go to waste. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and use it the next day to make a refreshing tuna salad. Flake it into a bowl with baby spinach, chopped boiled egg, diced cucumber, avocado, and a light olive oil dressing. You could also stuff it into lettuce cups or use it as a protein boost in a wrap made with Paleo-friendly coconut or cassava tortillas. Cooked tuna will typically last up to two days refrigerated, though it’s best enjoyed sooner for maximum freshness.
Herb Substitutions and Variations
If coriander isn’t your favourite herb, try substituting it with flat-leaf parsley or fresh dill, both of which bring their own fresh twist to the caper-lime combination. You can also add finely chopped shallots or red chilli to the dressing for a bolder punch. Another delicious variation is to lightly brush the tuna steaks with a touch of garlic-infused olive oil before grilling to enhance depth of flavour without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the fish.
Wine Pairings and Presentation Tips
For those who enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied rosé complements the brightness of the lime and the richness of the tuna. When plating, consider layering the tuna over a bed of greens or a drizzle of the coriander and caper dressing, garnished with microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant-quality finish at home. This is one of those dishes where simple presentation makes a big impact.
Final Tips for Success
Always let your tuna steaks come to room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before cooking. This ensures even heat distribution and a perfect centre. Avoid overcooking — tuna dries out quickly and loses its flavour when well-done. Keep your dressing chilled until serving for a contrasting freshness against the warm steak. And don’t forget to season just before cooking, not too early, to preserve the moisture within the fish.
Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a solo treat, these Griddled Tuna Steaks with Coriander and Capers are sure to impress. With premium ingredients, minimal prep, and maximum flavour, they’re a shining example of how good Paleo can taste.
Ginger Sesame Chicken Wings (Paleo)
Another wonderful way with chicken wings, this recipe is fiery and crispy, and great as a snack or as a main meal with some fresh vegetables. The key here is the ginger, and the amount of it! Requires overnight marinating.
Ginger Sesame Chicken Wings
Equipment
- Food processor
- Baking Tray
- Foil
Ingredients
- 500 g free range chicken wings
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 5 cloves of garlic peeled
- 50 g fresh root ginger peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
- 2 anchovies optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a food processor, mix together the garlic, ginger, coconut aminos and anchovies (if using) to form a paste. In a bowl, combine the paste with the sesame oil and sesame seeds. Pour the mixture over the chicken wings, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and leave to marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Oven: When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 180C / 350F / Gas mark 4.
- Bake the Wings: Lay the marinated wings on a foil-covered baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the wings are crisp and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the wings hot, accompanied by fresh vegetables or as a delightful snack.
These Ginger Sesame Chicken Wings are a perfect combination of fiery ginger and crispy sesame. Additionally, marinating overnight ensures the flavours penetrate deeply, making every bite incredibly tasty. Serve as a main dish or a snack, and watch them disappear quickly!
These wings also freeze well. If you’re planning ahead, you can double the batch, marinate them in freezer-safe bags, and defrost when needed. They're a great option to keep on hand for last-minute dinners or when friends drop by unannounced.
Why Ginger and Sesame Work So Well Together
Ginger adds a punchy, slightly spicy undertone that enhances the savoury profile of chicken. It’s also incredibly good for digestion and inflammation. Sesame, on the other hand, brings a deep, nutty flavour with a little crunch that balances out the heat beautifully. Together, they create an umami-rich experience that's hard to resist.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with steamed Asian greens like bok choy or gai lan for a nutrient-rich dinner.
- Serve over cauliflower rice with a drizzle of coconut aminos and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Make a quick Paleo slaw with shredded cabbage, carrot, and a ginger-lime dressing to add freshness.
Tips for Crispy Wings
If you want your wings extra crispy without deep-frying, place them on a wire rack over a baking tray so air can circulate underneath. You can also finish them under the grill (broiler) for a couple of minutes after baking to get the edges even crispier.
Adjusting the Heat
This recipe is gingery rather than chilli-hot, but if you’re a fan of spice, you can easily kick it up a notch. Try adding finely chopped red chilli, chilli flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. If you’re cooking for kids or those sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of fresh ginger slightly for a milder version.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within 3 days. These wings are delicious cold as part of a lunchbox or picnic, or reheated in the oven to regain their crispness.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Sesame oil: If unavailable, try macadamia oil or avocado oil for a similar nutty richness.
- Fresh ginger: Ground ginger can be used in a pinch, but fresh will give the most robust flavour.
- Tamari or coconut aminos: These are great soy-free alternatives that still add that essential umami depth.
Get Creative!
Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Try adding crushed almonds, sliced spring onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime before serving. You could even thread the wings onto skewers before cooking for a fun party appetiser.
Have you tried these Ginger Sesame Chicken Wings? If so, share your thoughts and any variations you made in the comments below. Furthermore, enjoy this fiery and crispy dish, and explore more of our Paleo recipes!
