Paleo Diet Recipes

Looking for inspiration to stay on track with your Paleo lifestyle? Our collection of Paleo recipes has you covered, with hundreds of nourishing, grain-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free meals to suit every taste. Whether you’re after a quick midweek dinner, a hearty breakfast, a lunchbox-friendly snack, or something a little indulgent (without breaking your Paleo rules), you’ll find it here. All recipes follow real food principles and are designed to help you eat clean, feel full, and enjoy every bite – without the stress. Browse our growing library and discover just how easy and delicious eating Paleo can be.

Kombucha Recipe

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Kombucha is a fermented tea drink that is full of good bacteria – so great for your digestive system. It's really easy to make too…

Ingredients: –

• 3 litres of distilled water
• 125g Sugar
• 4 tea bags (try Pekoe, Oolong, Black or Green)
• Kombucha mushroom (also known as a Scoby) – buy this dehydrated or find a friend who can give you some!

Kombucha Method: –

1. If your Scoby is dehydrated, rehydrate it (this may take some time)
2. Boil water and reduce to a simmer; add sugar and tea bags.
3. Steep the tea for a few minutes, remove the tea bags and leave the tea to cool to room temperature
4. Add to Scoby and cover the container (but make sure it isn't air tight)
5. Leave the mixture for five days to a month somewhere warm (not in direct sunight)
6. It's up to you when it's ready to drink! Either test for a pH of 2.6 – 4.0 with testing strips, or try it! The longer it brews for, the lower the sugar content.
7. You can use the film that has developed on top of the liquid to cultivate a new Scoby.

Why Kombucha Fits Perfectly in a Paleo Lifestyle

Kombucha has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. For those following a Paleo lifestyle, it offers a naturally fermented, gut-friendly beverage that not only supports digestion but is also free from preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and additives commonly found in commercial soft drinks. As a naturally effervescent drink, it provides a satisfying alternative to sugary carbonated beverages, without straying from Paleo principles.

The Gut Health Connection

One of the most important benefits of Kombucha is its positive impact on gut health. This fermented tea is teeming with probiotics — beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance in your digestive system. When your gut is functioning optimally, it supports nutrient absorption, immune health, and even mental clarity. For those transitioning into a Paleo diet, Kombucha can be a gentle way to encourage digestive resilience, particularly as your body adjusts to a different macronutrient profile and fewer processed foods.

Flavour Variations and Add-Ins

Once you’re comfortable brewing your basic Kombucha, the real fun begins with custom flavouring. During the second fermentation stage, you can add all sorts of Paleo-friendly flavourings:

Fresh ginger and turmeric for an anti-inflammatory boost
Berries such as raspberries, blueberries or strawberries for a fruity twist
Lemon and lime slices for a citrusy zing
Herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing finish

To do this, once your Kombucha has finished its initial fermentation, pour it into sealable bottles, add your flavourings, and ferment for another 2–4 days. Always be sure to burp the bottles daily to avoid excess pressure build-up.

Common Mistakes When Brewing Kombucha

Even though brewing Kombucha is simple, there are a few common mistakes worth avoiding:

Using metal containers or utensils: Kombucha reacts poorly with metal, which can damage your Scoby and affect the flavour. Always use glass or BPA-free plastic.
Adding the Scoby to hot tea: Ensure the tea is fully cooled to room temperature before introducing your Scoby. High temperatures can kill the beneficial cultures.
Sealing the container airtight: Your brew needs air to ferment. Cover with a breathable cloth secured with a rubber band, not a lid.
Not tasting as you go: Kombucha develops a more vinegar-like taste over time. Taste every few days to stop the fermentation at your preferred flavour balance.

Is Store-Bought Kombucha Paleo?

Not all Kombucha is created equal. While many store-bought varieties offer convenience, some contain added sugars, flavourings, or preservatives that aren’t ideal for a strict Paleo diet. Always read labels carefully — the best store-bought Kombucha contains only tea, sugar (which is consumed during fermentation), water, and natural flavourings or juices.

However, even when buying from reputable brands, brewing your own gives you the most control over ingredients, taste, and cost.

Can You Drink Too Much Kombucha?

While Kombucha is beneficial, moderation is key. Drinking too much can result in digestive upset, especially if your body isn’t used to fermented foods. For most people, around 100 to 250ml per day is a safe and beneficial amount. It’s also important to monitor your own tolerance, particularly if you’re new to fermented foods or have a sensitive stomach.

Storing Your Scoby Between Batches

If you’re taking a break between brews, don’t worry — your Scoby can be stored safely. Simply place it in a clean jar with a few cups of Kombucha from your last batch (called the starter liquid). Cover it with a breathable cloth and keep it at room temperature. This is often called a “Scoby hotel.” It can last for weeks or even months, as long as the liquid doesn’t evaporate too much or become contaminated.

Fermentation Safety Tips

Always inspect your brew for signs of contamination, such as fuzzy green, blue, or black mould. While strands or brown patches on your Scoby are normal, mould is not and the batch should be discarded if mould is present. Using clean hands and sanitised equipment for every batch is essential for keeping your brew safe and effective.

Beyond the Beverage: Other Uses for Kombucha

Once you’ve fallen in love with Kombucha, you might be interested to know it has uses beyond drinking. Some enthusiasts use well-aged Kombucha as a vinegar substitute in salad dressings or marinades. Others have experimented with Kombucha as a hair rinse or even a facial toner, though you should do your own research before trying topical uses.

Join the Fermentation Movement

Fermenting your own Kombucha is more than a recipe — it’s a rewarding and empowering process. It reconnects you with traditional food practices and allows you to take full ownership of your health. It’s also an enjoyable ritual and a great entry point if you’re looking to explore other fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi or coconut yoghurt.

If you're already brewing Kombucha or just getting started, share your experiences and favourite flavour combos in the comments below!

Have you tried Kombucha? I'd love to hear what you think of it – and if you make it in the same way I do?

80 Paleo Breakfast Ideas

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If it wasn't for struggling to come up with different Paleo Breakfast Ideas, I'm sure more people would make the transition over to Paleo. Unfortunately, Breakfast seems to be associated with cereal, toast, bagels, crumpets and sugar laden foods.

Breakfast doesn't have to equal grains! tweet this quote

I think a lot of people also get stuck in a breakfast rut making the same dish every day. Well, it’s time to break it up – try something new for breakfast tomorrow!

My biggest tip is to get used to seeing breakfast as fuel – it’s just another meal! And who wants to start the day off with a big sugar crash?

I've come up with lots of great Paleo Breakfast Ideas for whatever your Paleo situation (no time, dislike eggs, want to drink breakfast, child friendly, SAD substitutes, vegetarian/ vegan or keen to impress) – there are certainly lots of options.

To prove the point, here is a HUGE list of 80 Paleo Breakfast Ideas to inspire you. And if you want even MORE, check out my very own Paleo Breakfast Recipe book, with over 100 pages of beautifully photographed step-by-step recipes.

Easy Paleo Breakfast Ideas

Here are some Paleo Breakfast Ideas for when you have a little bit of time in the morning:

1. Bacon, eggs, avocado, mushrooms & tomato

2. An omelette with your choice of meat, vegetables and of course – egg yolks as well as whites

3. Make a frittata with your favourite veggies, meats and cheese (if you’re more Primal than Paleo)

4. There’s nothing like steak and eggs for breakfast!

5. For a nutritionally dense Paleo Breakfast Idea, chop up chicken liver and scramble with eggs, mushroom, onions and capsicum (bell peppers)

6. Scrambled eggs mixed with diced bacon and avocado (my personal favourite!)

7. Soft boiled eggs and wilted spinach

8. Lots of nations wake up to soup – make a soup with bone broth – or try coconut milk and leftover meat and veggies

9. Sweet potato, sardines and a poached egg

10. Try substitution bacon for skirt steak and serve with pumpkin

11. Bake an egg in an avocado

12. Bone broth with an egg whisked in

13. Smoked salmon and fried eggs for a great protein boast

14. Smoked haddock with poached eggs and wilted spinach

No Time?

When you need a good, quick Paleo Breakfast and have no time to cook and prepare, here are some fast ideas:

15. Paleo Breakfast Casserole – the night before put your choice of ingredients in your slow cooker – and wake up to an instant hot breakfast

16. Egg muffins – cook these up with your favourite veggies and meat in a big batch – and help yourself from the fridge all week

17. Make up a batch of salmon and zucchini croquettes to dig into all week

18. Black Coffee

19. Got a couple of minutes? Scramble an egg in a mug in the microwave

20. The day before, roast some sweet potatoes, and some chicken and have waiting in a container ready for breakfast

21. Make up a breakfast salad the night before with nuts, olives, avocado – and dress with extra virgin olive oil to serve

Grab & Go/ Travel

With no time to eat at home, these are some Paleo Breakfast ideas you can have on the go, eat on the road or perhaps at work.

22. Take a can of tuna/ mackerel/ kippers/ sardines and some pre-cut raw veggies

23. Make a Paleo trail mix with your favourite nuts and dried fruit

24. There’s nothing wrong with beef jerky for breakfast!

25. Hard boiled eggs travel well and can be prepared in advance

26. Make a BLT sandwich using capsicum (bell pepper) as the “bread”

27. Coconut yoghurt

28. Take a halved avocado and a spoon

29. Pork scratchings/ crackling/ rind (whatever you like to call it!)

30. Make up nut balls with nuts, seeds, spices and coconut oil and store in the fridge

SAD Substitutes

If you’re missing your old SAD breakfasts, there’s a Paleo Diet grain-free equivalent for almost everything…

31. Make a Paleo cereal with your favourite nuts, berries and seeds in a bowls of almond milk

32. Or try a Paleo cereal using dried fruit, seeds and nuts and serve with coconut milk and a pinch of cinnamon

33. Paleo granola can be made up from your choice of nuts and served with coconut milk

34. Make up banana bread with almond meal – and bananas!

35. A coconut muesli with nuts, seeds and coconut flakes served in coconut milk

36. Make up a noatmeal – or a Paleo porridge substitute using ground nuts, seeds, eggs and coconut milk

Leftovers

These deserve their own category! Make sure you cook up extra dinner the night before – and you have a ready made breakfast. What’s wrong with steak for breakfast?

37. Sauté onions and mushrooms – and last nights leftover meat and serve over poached eggs

Something Fancy

If you have the time, there are some great Paleo Breakfast Ideas that are perfect for an occasional treat. I very rarely use nuts and nut flours, but they are great for special occasions – and especially good for showing your SAD friends just what is possible when you go grain-free:

38. Paleo pancakes with almond meal take a bit more time, but are well worth the effort

39. Or try sweet potato pancakes

40. Waffles can be made with coconut flour or almond meal and served with a berry sauce

41. A Paleo NoOatmeal is far better than the SAD equivalent and can be prepared the night before, and cooked up in the morning

42. Raspberry Crepes made with coconut flour or almond meal served with fresh raspberries & whipped coconut cream – and a pinch of cinnamon

43. Scotch eggs; coat hard-boiled eggs in Paleo Sausage mixture, cover in almond meal and baked – amazing with poached eggs

44. A Paleo platter with a selection of fruits, cold meats, pickles, olives, sun-dried tomatoes & blanched veggies

45. Make bacon baskets using a cake case as a mould and bake eggs in them

46. My salmon burgers

47. Stuffed capsicum (bell peppers) with salmon, mushroom and tomato and top with pine nuts

48. Sliced onion wrapped with smoked salmon on a bed of lettuce

49. Your favourite seafood & veggies

50. Serve scrambled eggs in an orange half

No Eggs!

It’s easy to make every Paleo Breakfast include eggs – and it can be easy to get fed up of eggs! Here are some egg free Paleo Breakfast Ideas:

51. Kippers and dried figs

52. Paleo Sausages and kimchi

53. Pan fried zucchini served with guacamole

54. Stuffed portobello mushrooms

55. Sautéed minced (ground) beef, greens, onions and carrots

56. Sausages with sauerkraut & stir fried veggies

57. Trout with mushrooms and tomato

58. Fry kidneys and serve with broccoli

all without eggs!

Intermittent Fasting for Breakfast?

Since I've been Paleo, I quite often skip breakfast altogether – have you tried skipping breakfast?

Paleo Breakfasts For Kids (and big Kids alike!)

If your family has recently gone Paleo, here are a few suggestions your children and toddlers will love!

59. Egg & roasted vegetable soldiers

60. Make berry muffins with eggs, coconut flour, nuts and berries

61. Raw or blanched veggies served with nut butter, guacamole and salsa dips

Paleo Vegetarian/ Vegan Options

If you still can’t face meat in the morning, how about these ideas? Or you could always try a smoothie!

62. Poached eggs and sweet potato (or even yam) hash browns

63. Sauté some greens, squeeze on some lemon and add an egg

64. Fry eggs in a capsicum (bell pepper) ring or onion ring

65. Steamed broccoli with sweet potatoes

66. Mash up a hard-boiled egg with avocado

67. Try scrambling eggs with mushrooms, onions and a home-made tomato salsa

Fruit Friendly?

It’s common to minimise fruit intake on a Paleo Diet, due to it’s high fructose content. If you're targeting weight loss, it can be a good idea to minimise fruit and nuts. However, if you’re all for fruit, here are some fruity Paleo Breakfast Ideas. Remember berries have a lower fructose content and are loaded with antioxidants.

68. A nice simple fruit salad – served with whipped coconut cream

69. Even easier – a piece of fruit and a few berries

70. Make a warm fruit custard with eggs & coconut milk on the stove, nutmeg, cinnamon, berries a banana and some nuts

71. Chop up a kiwi fruit in coconut cream (or heavy cream if you do dairy too)

72. Wrap cubes of melon in prosciutto

Primal Breakfast Ideas

If your diet is more Primal than Paleo and you include some dairy, here are a few Primal Breakfast ideas for you.

73. Greek yoghurt with nuts, berries and your favourite spices

74. Apple and cheese is a winning combination!

75. Try the paleo cereal suggestions in raw milk instead of coconut

76. Bacon and tomato wrapped in cheese and lettuce wraps

Drinkable Breakfasts

A nice alternative – or something hand to have on the go is a smoothie or shake. There are some good options. Make sure you add in fat, perhaps an avocado or some coconut oil and enjoy your breakfast drink!

77. Green smoothies; try adding in Kale and spinach for a vitamin boast

78. Make an anti-oxidant berry smoothie with coconut milk

79. A veggie juice with coconut milk, carrots, broccoli and celery

80. A banana smoothie made with frozen bananas , coconut milk and almond butter

I hope I've given you some inspiration! If you're after even more, please check out my very own recipe book, the Paleo Breakfast Recipe Book with a recipe to suit every single paleo breakfast situation! I’d love to hear your favourite Paleo Breakfast Ideas in the comments below! What's on your menu?

Sausage, Red Wine & Almond Casserole paleo diet recipe-min

Paleo Sausage Casserole with Red Wine & Almonds

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7-Day Paleo Diet Menu Plan

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I've got a friend coming to stay next week, so I've planned a 7-day Paleo Menu Plan to showcase my Paleo diet. It’s all too easy to eat similar meals over and over, so I'm looking forward to a week of lots of variety. I'm going to over-make everything, so I have lots of leftovers to freeze and enjoy again later.

I've just written my first recipe book on Paleo Breakfasts, so will be showcasing some fantastic, but also quick and easy breakfast recipes on my menu plan!

So this is my Menu Plan for my week of Paleo meals:

Day	Breakfast / Brunch	Lunch	Dinner	Snack / Dessert / Drink
Monday	Paleo Salmon Burgers	Blanched veggies with guacamole and nut butter dips	Chicken and Vegetable Kebabs	Macadamia Nuts
Tuesday	NoOatmeal	Big Salad with tuna, eggs, nuts, leaves, tomatoes, olives, avocado, capsicum & EVOO	Lamb-chops, Roasted Parsnips, Onions and Pumpkin	–
Wednesday	Bacon, Eggs and Avocado	Turkey Nori-wraps	Porterhouse Steak, Egg, Mushrooms and Greens	Paleo Ice Cream
Thursday	Egg Muffins	Capsicum ham sandwiches (capsicum “bread”)	Tuna, Asparagus and Cauliflower Rice	Jerky
Friday	Red onion, ham and mushroom omelette	Paleo chilli with zucchini noodles	Paleo Pizza	Strawberries dipped in dark chocolate
Saturday	Paleo Pancakes with Berry Sauce	Chicken Soup with side salad	Barbecue with selection of meats and salads	Glass of red wine
Sunday	Full English Breakfast (eggs, bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms, sautéed sweet potato, homemade tomato relish, Paleo sausages)	–	Sunday Roast; Roast beef, sweet potatoes, home-made gravy, broccoli and carrots	Coconut Yoghurt

Making the Most of Your Paleo Meal Prep

With a solid weekly plan in place, now is the perfect time to elevate your Paleo experience even further. Meal prepping isn't just for convenience — it’s one of the best ways to stay committed to your goals and make sure no fresh produce or grass-fed meat goes to waste. The key is to cook in bulk when you can and store portions in airtight containers or freeze them for later in the week.

It can be incredibly helpful to label each meal with the date and contents, especially when freezing. If you're short on time midweek, knowing there’s a ready-made Paleo-friendly dinner waiting in your freezer can make all the difference. Soups, stews, chilli, meatballs, and bakes all freeze particularly well and can be reheated with minimal effort.

Smart Shopping for a Paleo Week

Planning your shopping trip around your meal plan helps avoid impulse buys and ensures you’re fully stocked for the week. Before heading to the shops or farmers market, check your pantry and fridge to see what staples you already have. Then, build your shopping list around what’s left.

For this particular 7-day menu, key items to look out for include:

High-quality animal protein like grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken, lamb and wild-caught fish
Fresh vegetables in a range of colours and textures
Healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, avocado, and nuts
Fresh herbs and spices for flavour (e.g. turmeric, rosemary, paprika, coriander)
Specialty Paleo items like coconut flour, almond meal, or cauliflower rice, if not making from scratch

Batch Cooking Tips

If you’re preparing meals for the week ahead, you don’t have to cook seven entirely different dishes. Batch cooking is about being smart with your time and ingredients. For example, roasting a large tray of vegetables at the start of the week means you’ve got a handy side dish for several meals. Similarly, slow cooking a big batch of meat or soup can cover multiple lunches or dinners.

Double up on recipes from your menu — for example, cook extra Paleo chilli or soup and freeze half. It’s also a great idea to marinate multiple types of meat at once. Store in separate containers in the fridge, then cook throughout the week for maximum flavour with minimum fuss.

Incorporating Leftovers Creatively

With leftovers from your planned meals, you can mix and match to create entirely new dishes. Leftover roasted pumpkin and lamb can become a warm salad with rocket and a tahini dressing. Paleo pizza from Friday night reheats beautifully for Saturday brunch, especially when topped with an egg. Chicken from your soup can be shredded into wraps, salads, or even turned into a quick stir-fry with vegetables.

Get creative and don't feel boxed in by the original plan — this is where the fun of Paleo cooking really starts. Being flexible and resourceful with your ingredients helps reduce food waste and makes the most of your time and budget.

Stocking a Paleo-Friendly Pantry

While your fridge will likely be full of fresh produce and protein, don’t overlook the importance of a well-stocked pantry. Keep staples on hand so you can whip up quick meals or add extra flavour to your dishes at a moment’s notice. Consider keeping the following items in your Paleo pantry:

Coconut milk (full fat, no additives)
Tinned tomatoes or tomato paste (check ingredients)
Tinned wild fish like salmon or sardines (if tolerated)
Herbal teas and organic coffee alternatives like dandelion root
Coconut aminos or apple cider vinegar
Natural nut butters (no sugar or seed oils)

Eating Out While Sticking to Paleo

Even with the best plans, you might find yourself needing to eat out. Luckily, more restaurants are accommodating dietary preferences, and with a few simple strategies, you can keep things Paleo without the stress.

Look for grilled meats, salads with olive oil and lemon dressing, or dishes that can be easily modified. Skip the bread, fries or creamy sauces unless you're confident in the ingredients. If unsure, don't be afraid to ask your server about the oil used or for simple substitutions. Many places are happy to serve vegetables instead of grains or legumes.

Staying Hydrated Throughout the Week

It's easy to forget hydration when planning meals, but drinking enough water is essential to support digestion and overall health on a Paleo diet. Herbal teas, infused water (think cucumber and mint or lemon and ginger), and bone broth all contribute to hydration and nutrient intake.

Avoid sweetened drinks, fruit juice, and even many “health drinks” that sneak in hidden sugars. A great habit is to start the day with a big glass of water, especially before breakfast. It sets a healthy tone for the rest of the day.

Preparing for Guests on a Paleo Diet

When hosting friends who aren’t Paleo, it’s tempting to stray from your usual food choices to accommodate them. But in most cases, your guests will appreciate your effort and might be curious to try something different.

To keep everyone happy, focus on meals that feel familiar but are made using Paleo ingredients. Think burgers wrapped in lettuce instead of buns, roast dinners without gravy thickened with flour, and dessert made with coconut cream and berries. Serve a few crowd-pleasers — like your Friday night Paleo pizza or Saturday barbecue — and most people won’t even realise they’re eating Paleo.

Reflecting on Your Weekly Plan

Once the week wraps up, it’s worth reflecting on what worked well and what you’d change for next time. Did certain meals take too long to prepare? Were there enough leftovers to get you through busy days? Did any particular dish stand out as a new favourite?

Meal planning isn’t about perfection — it’s about setting yourself up for success and learning as you go. Over time, it becomes second nature, and your weekly plan evolves to match your lifestyle and preferences. Keep a notebook or spreadsheet to jot down ideas for future weeks and adjust your shopping habits accordingly.

Ready to Try It Yourself?

If you haven’t already, why not give this 7-day Paleo menu plan a go yourself? Whether you follow it exactly or use it as inspiration, it’s a great way to bring structure, enjoyment, and variety to your Paleo lifestyle. Let me know your own favourite combinations — and if you have visitors, don’t be surprised if they leave inspired to try Paleo themselves!

What do you think of my proposed Menu Plan? I’d love to hear your favourite Paleo dishes! Do you create a weekly Paleo meal Plan?

Paleo Breakfast Salmon Burgers recipe mushrooms-min

Paleo Breakfast Recipe: Easy Salmon Burgers

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21 Paleo Diet Lunch Ideas Primal Paleo Network recipes-min

21 Paleo Lunch Ideas

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I've had a few emails in the last couple of weeks asking for Paleo lunch ideas, so I thought I’d make some suggestions in this blog post. I've also written the “Paleo Lunch Recipe Book“, so take a look if you'd like lots of lunch recipes to brighten up your lunchtimes!

Here are 21 suggestions that you can mix and match to come up with an unlimited variety of Paleo lunches:

1. Make kebabs with your choice of meat and vegetables on sticks. Easy finger food and delicious cold.

2. Take in cold meat and veggies – and pour over a hot bone broth from a thermos just before serving.

3. A big salad with your favourite meat, avocado, eggs, leaves, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Keep the dressing and “crunchy” ingredients separate and mix them together just before you eat. Try extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice or mashed up avocado for the dressing.

4. Olives

5. Lettuce wraps – instead of bread, use lettuce to wrap your sandwich filling

6. Invest in a good thermos/ flask and bring in a hot, ready to eat soup, chilli or stew

7. Bag up last nights leftovers

8. Make up a crustless quiche or fritella

9. Blanch some veggies

10. Make up nori wraps with your favourite meats and vegetables

11. Raw veggies with a almond butter or guacamole dip

12. Breadless sandwiches using cold meat or flat capsicum (bell pepper) for the “bread”

13. Hard boiled eggs

14. An avocado and a spoon

15. Beef – or even kangaroo jerky (make your own to make sure it’s Paleo)

16. Cold cuts of roast meat

17. Mashed sweet potato, pumpkin or parsnip

18. Make a batch of egg muffins with your favourite ingredients

19. Make a trail mix with nuts, shredded coconut and jerky

20. Take in frozen prawns/ shrimps, which should be nicely chilled by the time lunch comes round

21. Or you could take it as an opportunity to Intermittently Fast…

Try buying a bento box with lots of small compartments to encourage lots of variety in your lunch.

Reheat?

If you've got access to a fridge and microwave as a minimum, your options are numerous. You can make batches of stews, soups, Paleo chilli or casseroles, freeze them and simply reheat at lunchtimes. A microwave enables you to reheat last nights leftovers – or even cook a sweet potato.

Buying Lunch

Food courts, café's and restaurants all provide Paleo options, especially where you’re able to make a few substitutions. All day breakfasts are a good choice (think bacon, eggs, avocados or omelettes), roast dinners, salad bars; at a pinch I've even ordered a sandwich – without the bread (but with a few confused looks). The problem with buying lunch is the price – and you can’t always be entirely sure about all of the ingredients.

Emergency Paleo Food Stash

Despite your best intentions, there’s always that day you forget to bring in lunch – or worse still your money – so it makes sense to have an emergency Paleo stash at work. This way when there are no good options around, you can always put together a Paleo snack. Things like tinned mackerel, sardines, salmon and tuna, jars of olives, nuts, seeds, dried fruit and jerky will store for a long time and could be good options.

Brown-Bag Lunches

For a lot of people kitchen facilities aren't available and eating out isn't an option at lunchtime. Which leads to the question, what can you put in a Paleo Packed Lunch? Just because you can’t heat food, definitely doesn't meant you can’t keep it Paleo.

What’s your favourite Paleo lunch? I’d love to hear any tips and Paleo Lunch Ideas that you have – particularly for quick and easy Paleo lunches!

How to Make Paleo Lunches Work for Your Lifestyle

When you're following a Paleo lifestyle, lunch can either be your most empowering meal — or the one that derails your whole day. That's why having a solid list of easy Paleo lunch ideas ready to go is so essential. Whether you’re working from an office in the city, staying home with the kids, or packing meals for uni or a road trip, Paleo lunches can be simple, satisfying, and stress-free.

Make-Ahead Paleo Lunch Prep

The best way to avoid lunchtime decisions that lead to poor food choices? Do the thinking ahead of time. If you’re already prepping dinner, double the recipe and box up leftovers for the next day. Invest in quality storage containers so you always have grab-and-go meals ready in the fridge. Freezer-friendly recipes like beef stew, chicken curry, or cauliflower soup are also great options — just defrost the night before and reheat at work.

Try building your lunch using this formula:

Protein: Chicken thighs, grilled steak, boiled eggs, roast lamb, salmon, sardines
Fat: Avocado, olives, nuts, coconut flakes, Paleo mayo, EVOO-based dressing
Veggies: Raw veggie sticks, salad mix, roasted sweet potato, grilled capsicum, sauerkraut

No-Microwave? No Problem

If you don’t have access to a microwave or stove at lunch, plan meals that taste great cold or at room temperature. Roast vegetable salads with chicken, frittata slices, lettuce-wrapped meats, and cold sweet potato with tahini drizzle can be just as satisfying without heating. You can also make up a cold antipasto box — think cured meat (check ingredients), olives, cherry tomatoes, and pickled veg.

Pro tip: Use a thermal container to keep meals hot until midday. Fill it with boiling water for 5 minutes before adding your hot food, and it’ll stay warm for hours.

Paleo Lunch on the Go (No Kitchen, No Fridge)

If you’re on the road, out in the field, or stuck at your desk all day, don’t let convenience derail your efforts. Stock up on non-perishable Paleo-friendly foods to stash in your bag, car, or drawer. Tinned wild-caught salmon, jerky, pouches of olives, mini nut butters, and coconut chips are great for this. Add a boiled egg and an apple and you've got a surprisingly complete Paleo lunch.

Paleo Lunch Ideas for Kids (or Grownups Who Like Fun Lunches)

Paleo lunches don’t have to be boring or overly serious. Try making Paleo “snack boxes” with a little of everything: boiled eggs, turkey roll-ups, blueberries, roasted pumpkin seeds, cucumber rounds, and coconut yoghurt. It’s satisfying, colourful, and easy to pack in a bento-style lunchbox with little compartments for variety.

Batch Cooking = Lunchtime Freedom

A little weekend prep goes a long way. Set aside an hour on Sunday to roast a tray of chicken thighs, bake a batch of egg muffins, boil a dozen eggs, prep chopped veggie sticks, and make a simple dressing. With these building blocks, you can mix and match for the rest of the week without having to think too hard at 7 a.m.

Quick Paleo Lunch Combos to Keep on Repeat

Grilled salmon + roast pumpkin + spinach + macadamia oil
Chicken breast + smashed avocado + cherry tomatoes + rocket
Hard-boiled eggs + sauerkraut + raw veggie sticks + Brazil nuts
Slow-cooked lamb + mashed cauliflower + steamed broccoli
Leftover steak + fried zucchini ribbons + tomato salsa

Still stuck for ideas? Try combining your leftovers with fresh produce or turning dinner favourites into wraps, salads or bowls. Keep it simple, keep it colourful — and don’t be afraid to repeat meals that work for you.

What are your go-to Paleo lunches? Share your quick wins, meal prep tips, and favourite time-saving recipes in the comments — let’s help each other keep lunch easy, delicious, and fully Paleo.

Kitchen Heaven or Kitchen Hell?

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As I mentioned in my Paleo Pets post, I’m currently house sitting and looking after someone’s dogs

I always look in peoples shopping trolleys with interest, but living in someone else’s house offers such a unique insight into what people really eat. The pantry in the house I'm staying in could not be any further from mine. And I find it really sad.

Obviously fresh food was used up before they left, but even so, it appears that almost all of the families meals come from tins, packets and jars, with expiry dates far into the future and lists of ingredients I don’t recognise.

The kitchen counters are full of gadgets like toasters, popcorn makers and microwaves – all absent from my kitchen. Meanwhile gadgets that I rely on in my kitchen are no where to be seen – a blender for soup and sauces; weighing scales for trying out new recipes; a big stockpot for broths and a slow cooker are very evidently missing. Instead of measuring cups and a julienne peeler I've found a pizza cutting wheel and an ice cream scoop.

The pantry is filled with a fat fearing agenda. There are all sorts of fat-free, reduced fat and low-fat instant options. Even the olive oil is “light” – but of course the fat of choice appears to be canola oil. The spread options (for bread, I presume) are low fat margarines. There is a shelf full of cereals, all boasting some amazing health benefits (and lots of mention of wholegrains) on their packaging.

I've been really surprised to find the herbs and spices (of which I have a rather large, regularly refilled collection in my own kitchen) consists of just a packet of cooking salt and an unopened jar of black peppercorns. I suppose when you reheat and eat out of packets and jars, all the taste you need is provided for, by the unrecognisable ingredients listed on the packet. With some good meat or fish, vegetables and a handful of the Paleo ingredients I can use my herbs and spices to make literally hundreds of completely different meals, with far superior tastes to anything the packets could provide.

Water doesn't appear to be the drink of choice, judging by the collection of shockingly coloured cordial bottles and shelf of soft drinks bottles.

The other interesting comparison is in the cooking materials themselves. Plastic (for use in the microwave and for storing food) is in almost exclusive use, and most of the cookware is non-stick. I used to use this type of cookware too – until I started to replace my pots and pans with safer options.

Tellingly the kitchen also houses two medicine cupboards full of all sorts of medications. My medical supplies are housed in a small container and consist of paracetamol (not used this year as I just don’t get headaches any more), some old forgotten about inhalers (my asthma disappeared without trace a couple of years ago), some out of date antihistamines (my allergies have also disappeared) and some plasters (bandaids for any Americans in the house).

I can’t accept it takes too long to bother to prepare proper food, it definitely isn't more expensive than buying everything in packet form. I think for some people opening and reheating from a packet has just become a sad habit, that is hard to break.

The effort to buy low-fat and “healthy” cereals clearly indicates an desire to be healthy – it’s just sad that the intention has failed so strongly in execution.

Have you seen such a SAD kitchen recently? Do you think this is typical?

Paleo Barbecue Recipes

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We've finally started to have a few sunny days – the perfect time to get the barbecue out and try out some Paleo Barbecue Recipes!

There were a few recipes I’d wanted to try in Mark Sisson’s cookbook, The Primal Blueprint Cookbook, which had been waiting for some sunshine. I amended the recipes according to which ingredients I could get – and what I already had in my kitchen.

I managed to get hold of some turkey (I don’t know why it’s not more popular in Australia?), an essential ingredient in the Turkey Kebabs I wanted to make. I also made Green Chili Burgers, based on a recipe in the book. Sadly mine were made with regular beef and not bison as the recipe suggests (another type of meat I've not seen in Australia).

Turkey Kebabs

Ingredients:

200g minced (ground) turkey

1 egg (I'm using omega 3 enriched eggs at the moment)

1 tablespoon dried parsley

½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, cumin, paprika & salt

¼ teaspoon of cinnamon & cayenne pepper

1 spoon of olive oil

Method:

It doesn't get much simpler! I simply added the ingredients (except the oil) to the food processor and blended until everything was well mixed in. I then formed the meat into kebabs on wooden skewers and coated with a little olive oil.

The kebabs were then barbecued until cooked thoroughly.

Burgers

Ingredients:

200g minced (ground) beef

1 teaspoon dried chilli

2 tablespoons coriander (cilantro)

Half a small finely diced onion

1 teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon chilli powder & salt

2 eggs

paleo-burger-ingredients-barbecue_ingredients

Method:

I put everything except the eggs in the food processor and blended well. I then formed the meat into burger shapes and cooked thoroughly on the barbecue. Whilst the burgers were cooking I fried the eggs and served them on top of the burgers.

Along with the meat, I made a simple salad to complete the meal.

With it being this easy to make burgers and kebabs, I don’t know why anyone would buy them ready-made!

Expanding Your Paleo Barbecue Menu

Once you've mastered Paleo-friendly burgers and kebabs, there’s an entire world of barbecue recipes to explore. From marinades to grilled vegetables and even Paleo desserts, summer barbecuing doesn’t have to mean compromising on real food values. In fact, the barbecue is one of the easiest ways to prepare nutrient-dense meals with minimal fuss, maximum flavour, and no need to heat up the kitchen.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Herb Dressing

Vegetable skewers are an excellent side dish or main in their own right, especially when paired with a vibrant, herby sauce. Use whatever is in season — zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and capsicum all grill beautifully. Toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling, and finish with a drizzle of herb dressing made with fresh parsley, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt. This complements the richness of grilled meats and adds colour to the plate.

Barbecued Chicken Thighs with Smoky Paprika Marinade

Chicken thighs are one of the juiciest cuts for barbecuing and tend to be more forgiving than chicken breast. For a smoky twist, marinate them for a few hours in a mix of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lemon zest, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. The natural fat content in the thighs helps keep them moist and full of flavour, and they’re perfect alongside a fresh salad or grilled sweet potato wedges.

Stuffed Capsicum on the Grill

Stuffed capsicum (bell peppers) are another versatile addition to your Paleo barbecue spread. Cut in half and deseed them, then fill with a mix of cooked ground beef, finely chopped spinach, garlic, diced tomatoes, herbs, and a spoon of almond meal or crushed pumpkin seeds for texture. Wrap in foil and place directly on the barbecue, or use a grill-safe dish. After 10–15 minutes, you’ll have a rich, satisfying side or light main course.

Paleo Barbecue Sauces and Dips

Traditional barbecue sauces are often packed with sugar, soy, and preservatives, so why not make your own? A simple Paleo-friendly sauce can be made by blending tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, and a dash of honey or dates for sweetness. Simmer until thickened and brush it onto your meats during the last few minutes of grilling for a sticky, flavour-packed finish.

You can also prepare dips like guacamole, baba ganoush, or a cashew and roasted capsicum spread to serve with veggie sticks or grilled meat. These add depth and richness to your barbecue and work brilliantly as toppings for your homemade burgers or kebabs.

Grilled Fruit Skewers for Dessert

Fruit may not be the first thing that comes to mind when barbecuing, but it can be a delicious and refreshing dessert option. Thread chunks of pineapple, peach, banana, and even watermelon onto skewers and grill lightly until caramelised. Serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream and a dusting of cinnamon for a naturally sweet treat that still feels indulgent.

Tips for a Stress-Free Paleo Barbecue

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and prepare salads in advance so you can relax once the barbecue is lit.
Use a meat thermometer: This takes the guesswork out of grilling, especially for chicken or larger cuts.
Choose quality meat: Where possible, use grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken, or wild-caught fish for better nutrition and flavour.
Opt for reusable skewers and grill mats: These make clean-up easier and reduce waste — a bonus if you're barbecuing often.

Drinks to Pair With Your Paleo BBQ

If you're enjoying your barbecue with a drink in hand, consider Paleo-friendly options that complement the clean, real food flavours of your meal. Sparkling water with slices of citrus and fresh herbs (like mint or basil) makes for a refreshing non-alcoholic option. If you’re including alcohol, dry cider, organic red wine, or a spirit like tequila or vodka mixed with soda water and lime are better aligned with a Paleo lifestyle than sugary premixed drinks or beer.

Why Grilling Works So Well With Paleo

One of the great things about Paleo is that it celebrates whole foods in their most natural state — and that’s exactly what grilling brings out. Cooking over an open flame intensifies the flavours of meats and vegetables without needing processed marinades or breaded coatings. It’s also a method that echoes our ancestral roots, using fire and simplicity to prepare meals that are both nourishing and satisfying.

Plus, barbecuing encourages shared meals and outdoor dining, which supports the social and emotional aspects of wellness that are often overlooked in dietary conversations. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a crowd, a Paleo barbecue brings people together around real food — no additives, no preservatives, just flavour and connection.

Time to Fire It Up

As the weather warms up and the days get longer, now is the perfect time to experiment with new Paleo barbecue recipes. If you haven’t tried barbecuing vegetables, stuffing meats, or whipping up your own sauces yet, this season is your chance to get creative. With so many fresh ingredients available across Australia right now, there’s no shortage of inspiration for your next weekend cook-up.

Whether you're sticking to your favourites or trying something new, Paleo barbecuing proves that eating well doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive. So dust off that grill, stock up on fresh produce and good quality meats, and get ready to enjoy your healthiest — and tastiest — summer yet.

What are your favourite barbecue recipes?

The first Australian Paleo Weekend Event Conference Retreat Primal Sydney Australia Seminar Expo-min

The 1st Australian Paleo Weekend!

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Note: This is an old post – the next weekend has not yet been finalised, but please sign up to my newsletter if you are interested in the next event!

I'm very excited to announce the first Paleo Weekend in the Southern Hemisphere will be held on 12th & 13th May, 2012 on the beautiful Cockatoo Island, in Sydney Harbour.

Whether you’ve been living a Paleo lifestyle for a while, have been interested but are yet to dip your toes in – or are looking for a way to finally improve your health and fitness – this is the weekend for you!

I’ve got together some of the leading experts from this side of the World (including Jamie Scott, Dr Anastasia Boulais, Julianne Taylor and Dr Ron Ehrlich), to talk about all aspects of health, nutrition & fitness and to demonstrate and teach techniques to participants. The Paleo Weekend will be held on 12^{th &} 13^th of May 2012, on Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour – an absolutely fantastic venue! The weekend will be fully catered with an amazing Paleo menu. There is also the exclusive option for a limited number of attendees to sleep on the island overnight, in pre-erected luxury tents (it doesn’t get much more Primal than that!).

Attendees will: –

· Learn about Paleo nutrition and health

· Have the opportunity to quiz the experts,

· Learn through a demonstration session how to cook quick and healthy Paleo meals,

· Learn how to get on the fast track to peak sporting performance, by opening the door to their mind

· Learn barefoot running techniques

· Enjoy an early morning yoga session on the harbour shore to kick start the day

· Enjoy a social Paleo feast on the Saturday night with like-minded new friends

· Have the unique opportunity to sleep on the island

· Enjoy fantastic Paleo meals prepared for them

· Enjoy a life changing Paleo Weekend in a unique venue like no other!

Sessions Include: –

Cookery Demonstration; learn how to cook quick and easy Paleo meals at home

Barefoot running technique

Early morning Yoga overlooking the harbour

Fitness techniques – learn how to improve your technique and fitness – details to be announced

Paleo Nutrition lectures – on a variety of topics to be announced soon

Paleo Health lectures – on a variety of topics to be announced soon

Learn how to achieve improved health results & how to get on the fast track to peak sporting performance, by opening the door to your mind

Ticket prices are currently on sale at an early bird discounted rate until 31st March.

Numbers are strictly limited due to the island licensing – so book yours today to avoid missing out!

Primal Smoothies

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I've started to have smoothies some mornings when I'm in a particular rush, since they are so quick to make and can be packed with nutritionally dense Paleo foods. I'm also going to start making up a smoothie to take to the gym with me – that way I'll be able to have something in the post work-out window – I often miss this valuable time, in my return from the gym.

Today I tried a smoothie from Primal Toad's Toadally Primal Smoothies ebook, the “Clumsy Popeye”. I thought this one would be a good choice after an early morning gym session, as it is packed with antioxidants – and protein in the form of protein powder.

I put water, frozen blueberries, cashew butter, Chocolate Primal Fuel, spinach coconut milk & ice in my blender for a few minutes – and then served, with some shredded coconut on top. It doesn't get much easier than that! I thought the spinach taste might not be to my liking, but the main tastes were the chocolate, coconut and cashews – I really enjoyed it and will definitely be making this one again. There's a whole section on green smoothies, which I'm keen to try – it seems like a good way to get in lots of good nutrients.

Customising Your Paleo Smoothies

Once you’ve nailed a basic smoothie formula, the fun really begins. Paleo smoothies are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit your nutritional needs, taste preferences, or even your current goals — whether that’s fat loss, increased energy, or post-workout recovery. Unlike many store-bought smoothies, which are often packed with sugar and dairy, homemade versions give you total control over every ingredient.

Think of smoothies as a blank canvas: you’ve got your base, your greens, your fat, your protein, and optional extras like spices, superfoods, or fermented add-ins. You can mix and match depending on what you have available or what you’re craving that day.

Suggested Paleo Smoothie Components

Here’s a simple breakdown of smoothie building blocks to make your own delicious and nutrient-packed blend:

Liquid base: Water, coconut water, almond milk, coconut milk (canned for richness), herbal tea, or even cooled bone broth for a savoury twist.
Fruit: Frozen berries, banana (preferably green-tipped), mango, kiwi, or pineapple in moderation. Berries are lower in sugar and higher in antioxidants, making them a Paleo favourite.
Vegetables: Spinach, kale, cucumber, zucchini, celery, or even cooked pumpkin or beetroot. Greens are great raw, while root veggies often benefit from being pre-steamed or roasted.
Protein: Collagen peptides, egg yolks (if you're comfortable using raw), grass-fed beef protein powder, or leftover shredded meat (yes, really!).
Healthy fats: Avocado, nut butter, coconut cream, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Flavour and texture boosters: Raw cacao powder, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla extract, fresh herbs (mint or basil), and shredded coconut.

Balancing each of these elements ensures your smoothie keeps you satisfied, supports your blood sugar levels, and provides steady energy throughout the morning or post-gym session.

Five Delicious Paleo Smoothie Ideas

If you're after inspiration, try these simple blends — all Paleo, all quick to make, and all packed with flavour:

1. Tropical Greens Smoothie

1 cup coconut water
1 frozen banana
½ cup mango chunks
1 handful of spinach
1 tablespoon chia seeds
Juice of half a lime

Blend until smooth. Add a few ice cubes for an extra chilled treat.

2. Post-Workout Chocolate Recovery

1 cup almond milk
1 scoop chocolate collagen or Paleo-friendly protein powder
1 tablespoon almond butter
½ frozen banana
1 teaspoon raw cacao powder

Top with shaved dark chocolate (85% or higher) for a decadent finish.

3. Creamy Avocado Mint

1 cup coconut milk
½ avocado
5–6 fresh mint leaves
¼ cucumber, peeled and chopped
½ green apple

This refreshing blend is perfect for warm mornings or after a sauna session.

4. Berry Gut-Healing Blend

1 cup water or herbal tea
½ cup frozen mixed berries
1 scoop grass-fed collagen peptides
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Great for digestion and anti-inflammatory support.

5. Cinnamon Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

1 cup coconut milk
½ cup cooked pumpkin
½ frozen banana
1 tablespoon almond butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon + pinch nutmeg

This one is warming, comforting, and ideal for cooler mornings.

Should You Add Supplements to Smoothies?

One of the advantages of smoothies is their ability to deliver targeted nutrients. This can be especially useful if you’re recovering from intense training, trying to boost your immunity, or struggling with gut issues. Consider including:

Collagen or gelatin: Great for joint health, skin elasticity, and gut repair.
Magnesium powder: Supports relaxation, sleep, and recovery — especially useful post-exercise.
Spirulina or chlorella: Algae powders that offer a rich source of micronutrients and detoxification support.
Probiotic capsules: You can break these open and add the contents to support gut flora.
Functional mushrooms: Like lion’s mane for focus or reishi for calm — just ensure they’re from a clean, reputable source.

Of course, always be cautious with dosages and observe how your body reacts — especially when trying new supplements. Sometimes less is more.

Batching Smoothies in Advance

If you're regularly on the go, pre-batching your smoothie ingredients into freezer bags or glass jars can be a game-changer. Simply portion out all your dry and frozen components into containers, then in the morning, tip them into the blender with your chosen liquid. This reduces mess and prep time, making it easier to stay consistent with your healthy habits.

Tips for Blending Success

Always blend your greens and liquid first before adding frozen fruit or harder ingredients — this gives a smoother consistency.
If you find your smoothie separates quickly, try adding a teaspoon of chia seeds or avocado for natural emulsification.
Use glass jars with lids to take smoothies with you. They’re eco-friendly and don’t absorb smells like plastic.

Reclaiming the Convenience of Real Food

Smoothies are a brilliant example of how Paleo doesn’t have to mean complicated. With the right ingredients, you can have a nutrient-packed meal ready in under five minutes — ideal for busy mornings, post-workout refuelling, or those times when your fridge looks uninspiring. By blending real, whole food ingredients, you get all the convenience of a shake, without the downsides of processed powders or bottled drinks filled with additives.

So next time you’re short on time, don’t skip your nutrition. Fire up the blender, get creative, and enjoy the simplicity of real food — in a glass.

Do you often have smoothies? Are they something you have as a meal, or as a post workout recovery drink?