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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!
Inside the Paleo Dinner Recipe Book
I've had a lot of request from people who've bought my recipes books, for a book on Paleo Dinner Recipes – and I'm pleased to announce – here it is!
I think this is the most extensive Paleo recipe book I've created to date, with over 60 recipes and beautiful full page photos of most recipes.
There’s something for everyone, with chapters based around your favourite meats:
- Chicken
- Pork
- Lamb
- Beef
- Fish & Seafood
I've also include offal and vegetarian recipes, as well as two chapters covering side dishes and sauces, to transform your dinners! There’s a good balance of quick dinners and dinners to impress with.
As someone who’s lived in metric and imperial countries, I know how annoying it is to read recipes that are only in grams, or only in ounces – so you’ll be pleased to find that all of my recipes will make sense wherever you live!
Currently the book is available as an ebook, so you can download it instantly. It comes with a 30 day guarantee and can be purchased here for $17 by credit card, debit card or paypal.
Buy Two or more Paleo Recipe Ebooks and Save
The book is $17, but I offer big discounts if you buy more than one of my recipe books in one transaction – you can find the bulk prices here.
I'm often asked if my books are available as print version – I know a lot of people prefer a physical book. Well, the good news is that I will be offering print versions soon, but at the moment, these are all digital downloads.
I’d love to hear your feedback on this book, or any others!
How to Make the Most of Your Paleo Dinner Routine
Now that The Paleo Dinner Recipe Book is available, it’s the perfect opportunity to rethink how you approach dinnertime. Many people find that breakfast and lunch are easier to keep Paleo, but dinner can sometimes feel like a challenge—especially when you're tired at the end of the day or feeding a family with different preferences. The good news? With a few smart strategies and a bit of inspiration, your Paleo dinners can be the most satisfying and stress-free meals of your day.
Building a Balanced Paleo Dinner Plate
The beauty of Paleo dinners is that they’re naturally nutrient-dense when built around high-quality proteins, colourful vegetables, and healthy fats. A balanced plate might include a portion of grilled lamb chops, roasted sweet potato wedges, and a side of sautéed kale with garlic and olive oil. Add a fermented veggie like sauerkraut for a probiotic boost and a dollop of avocado mash for creaminess, and you’ve got a meal that satisfies both hunger and health.
Using the chapters in the dinner recipe book as a base, you can build out your weekly menu by selecting a recipe from each protein category. Not only does this add variety, but it ensures you’re getting a diverse range of micronutrients throughout the week.
Quick Dinners for Busy Weeknights
We all have those nights when the last thing we want to do is cook. That’s why the book includes a range of speedy, no-fuss dinner recipes that can be on the table in 30 minutes or less. Think pan-fried pork steaks with apple slaw, stir-fried chicken with ginger and bok choy, or simple baked fish with lemon and herbs. Keeping a few of these quick options in your rotation can help you stay consistent even on your busiest evenings.
Batch-cooked ingredients can also be a lifesaver here. Roast a tray of vegetables and a whole chicken on Sunday, and you’ll have the building blocks for wraps, salads, and bowls all week long. A little prep ahead of time means you can assemble a wholesome dinner in minutes—without reaching for processed alternatives.
Dinners to Impress Without the Stress
Entertaining while eating Paleo? It’s easier than you think. The dinner recipe book includes plenty of show-stopping dishes that are perfect for guests, whether you're hosting a casual barbecue or a more formal sit-down meal. Dishes like slow-cooked lamb shoulder, almond-crumbed fish fillets, and spiced beef tagine are sure to impress, all while staying completely Paleo-compliant.
Serving a group with dietary restrictions? Many of the recipes can be adjusted for low FODMAP, keto, or dairy-free needs with simple swaps. Paleo meals tend to focus on real, whole foods, making them an excellent foundation for anyone with food sensitivities or preferences.
Creative Paleo Sides and Sauces
Side dishes often make or break a meal, and in the Paleo world, they’re where you can really let your creativity shine. The dedicated side dish chapter in the book includes options like roasted cauliflower with tahini drizzle, garlic zucchini ribbons, and crispy parsnip fries. These sides are designed to complement your mains and add flavour, texture, and variety to your plate.
Let’s not forget sauces—often the secret weapon of any good cook. Whether it’s a vibrant chimichurri, creamy avocado dressing, or coconut-based curry sauce, having a go-to sauce can elevate even the simplest protein and veg combo into something truly delicious. Batch-make your favourites and keep them in the fridge to save time throughout the week.
Incorporating Offal and Less Common Cuts
Offal might not be everyone’s first choice, but it’s one of the most nutrient-dense food groups and deserves a place in your dinner rotation. Recipes like liver and bacon, heart stew, or kidneys in mustard sauce not only provide a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals but are also far more budget-friendly than muscle meats.
If you’re new to cooking with offal, start by mixing smaller amounts into dishes you already love—like adding finely chopped liver to beef mince or blending it into meatballs. The dinner recipe book includes approachable offal recipes designed to make this nutrient goldmine more accessible and enjoyable.
Vegetarian Paleo Dinners That Satisfy
While Paleo is often associated with meat-heavy meals, it absolutely supports well-planned vegetarian dinners too. The vegetarian section of the book focuses on protein-rich options using eggs, nuts, seeds, and plenty of colourful vegetables. Recipes like stuffed capsicums with cauliflower rice, zucchini and almond fritters, or eggplant curry offer a satisfying meat-free option without relying on grains or legumes.
Vegetarian Paleo meals are ideal for lighter dinners, meatless Mondays, or those transitioning to a more plant-focused approach while keeping their diet grain-free and unprocessed.
Making the Most of Your eBook
One of the best things about the digital format is the ability to download your recipe book instantly and access it on your phone, tablet, or computer. Save your favourite recipes, create weekly meal plans, and use the zoomable photos to see exactly how each dish should look. And because it includes both metric and imperial measurements, there's no need to do any conversions—just shop, cook, and enjoy.
Planning to cook from the ebook regularly? Consider printing out your top recipes and storing them in a binder in the kitchen. That way, you’ll have a go-to set of meals at your fingertips for busy evenings when screen time isn’t ideal.
Ready to Transform Your Dinnertime?
Whether you're cooking for one, feeding a family, or hosting guests, The Paleo Dinner Recipe Book offers a versatile toolkit to keep your dinners delicious, stress-free, and perfectly aligned with your Paleo goals. With over 60 recipes covering every protein and occasion, it's the most comprehensive guide I’ve created to date—and I can’t wait for you to try it.
If you’ve already tried a few recipes from the book, I’d love to hear what you think. Which dinner has become your new favourite? Let me know in the comments or get in touch—I always appreciate your feedback and suggestions!
73 Paleo Dinner Ideas
5 CommentsWhat are you having for your Paleo Dinner tonight? Have your dinners started to get repetitive and boring? Or perhaps you’ve got a joint of meat sat in your fridge and are looking for some inspiration about what dinner to make with it? My Paleo dinner recipe book is full of dinner recipes – you can check it out here. Meanwhile, here are some Paleo dinner ideas to cook and enjoy tonight…
Chicken Paleo Dinner Options
There are so many options with chicken! If you’ve got some chicken at home, perhaps one of these ideas will give you some inspiration?
- Thai green curry
- Chicken Fajitas. Either skip the tortillas or use lettuce, or Nori wraps instead
- Chicken casserole – make it in your crockpot/ slow cooker for an instant dinner
- Chicken kebabs
- Bacon wrapped chicken breasts
- Roast chicken
- Chicken salad with mango
- Lemon chicken in the slow cooker
- Jerk chicken
- Quick & easy chicken curry
- Paleo chicken pad thai
- Avocado Cashew chicken
Fish Paleo Dinner Suggestions
Fish is a great choice for Omega 3 – just make sure you get good quality seafood – and ideally line caught fish.
- Salmon burgers
- Paleo Sushi using nori wraps and cauliflower rice
- Pan seared tuna with lime and steamed veggies
- Smoked haddock omelette
- Chilli crab
- Salt & pepper squid
- Shrimp salad
- Chowder
- Baked trout & roasted vegetables
- Seared scallops
- Muscles with garlic
- Seaweed salad
- Paleo paella
- Fish stew
SAD Dinners
Missing a SAD favourite? Try the Paleo version!
- Make a Paleo pizza with a nut flour base
- Spaghetti bolognaise with zucchini noodles
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Beef Paleo Dinner Ideas
Beef is another very versatile dinner choice, with literally thousands of menu options. Try one of these ideas tonight.
- Bunless burgers with sweet potato fries
- Meatloaf
- Lasagne (using eggplant and zucchini instead of pasta)
- Paleo meatballs
- Beanless chilli
- Spicy beef curry made with coconut milk
- A traditional roast beef dinner with roasted veggies
- A beef and broccoli stir fry
- Beef stew
- Beef stuffed capsicum/bell peppers
- Beef stroganoff
- Cottage pie topped with cauliflower mash
- Beef Goulash
- Beef Bourguignon
- Steak & Eggs
- Cinnamon beef hash
- The classic meat pie
Lamb Paleo Dinners
I always forget how much I enjoy lamb. Fancy one of these on your menu tonight?
- Shepherds pie topped with sweet potato mash
- Lamb shanks with cauliflower rice
- Lamb skewers
- Slow roasted leg of lamb
- Lamb tagine
- Lamb hotpot
- Lamb chops and mint sauce
- Lamb burgers served with a Greek salad
- Rogan Josh
Paleo Pork Dinners
You can do a lot with pork – this is one meat that I especially recommend getting the best quality possible. Ideally try to get pasture raised pork.
- Sausage and (sweet potato) mash
- Pork chops, apple sauce and steamed greens
- Ginger & orange pork ribs
- Sweet & sour pork
- Sausage hash
- Pork chops & apple sauce
- Moroccan pork
- Braised short ribs
- Paleo sausages with sauerkraut
- Pork tenderloin with pumpkin
- Sausage, red wine & almond casserole
Other Meats & Offal Dinners
For a nutritional boast, how about something more unusual – or some offal?
- Liver & onions. The classic combination – not to mention packed with goodness
- Chicken liver salad with poached egg
- Oxtail soup
- Barbequed Kangaroo
Winter Paleo Diet Dinners
Something comforting for cold winters nights
- Bone broth
- Mushroom soup
- Vitamin A soup
- Nasi Goreng
What are your favourite dinners? I’d love to hear some more dinner ideas from you, in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this post, please like and share it.
The Best (and Worst) Paleo Restaurants
15 CommentsIt’s nice to eat out at a restaurant occasionally. Sticking to your Paleo Diet shouldn't be a reason to avoid eating out!
If you’re going out with a group of friends, try to have some influence over the restaurant you go to. Some restaurants offer so many more Paleo friendly options than others.
The Menu
It’s also a good idea to check out the menu in advance – most restaurants will have this on their website. If you’re unsure, call ahead to check on specific ingredients. It’s definitely worth making the restaurant aware that you need something gluten, dairy and legume free before you arrive. Most places seem to be extremely accommodating with this, often to the extent of suggesting dishes that aren't even on the menu!
Mix & Match Paleo Options
When looking through the menu be prepared to mix and match. There’s almost always no problem with asking for the meat from one dish to go with the vegetable side from another dish. Dishes often come with a side of fries, some other type of potato, rice or pasta – ask to swap this for more vegetables or a salad.
Un-Paleo Sauces
Sauces, gravy and dressings are often places where gluten, soy and all sorts of undesirables are hiding. It’s best to ask for no sauce, or ask for it on the side, rather than take the risk that your beef will arrive swimming in gluten!
Ask, Ask and Ask Again!
Don’t be afraid to ask exactly what is in your dish – it’s your health – it’s important. It’s also worth asking if the meat is grass-fed. Perhaps it isn't, but hopefully the more people who ask, the sooner restaurants will start stocking it.
Which Types of Restaurant Are The Best For a Paleo Diet?
Some restaurants types are a lot more Paleo than others – but of course, you may find lots of local exceptions to this. Look at the menu and ask about the ingredients!
Korean BBQ/ Mongolian BBQ/ Brazilian BBQ
It doesn't get much more Paleo than cooking a pile of meat at your table barbecue. Sides are usually salads and vegetables and it’s often a great chance to try cuts of meat you don’t usually have.
Steakhouses
Steak and vegetables – even better if they offer grass-fed meat.
Indian
Whilst there are a lot of dishes to avoid, there are also dishes cooked in coconut milk, or dry cooked (like tandoori) in herbs which represent great Paleo choices. Check they cook with ghee or coconut oil rather than vegetable oil
Burgers
Lots of “real food” burger restaurants seem to be appearing – good news as these can be a good Paleo option if you order without the bun!
Thai
Thai can be a great Paleo dining solution when coconut oil and milk are used.
Mexican
Most options like tacos or fajitas work well within a Paleo Diet – just order without the tortilla
Japanese
A wide variety of fish makes dishes like sashimi a great choice
Seafood Restaurants
If there are any wild or line caught options, these are likely to be a good bet
And the Worst Restaurant Type For Paleo Options?
Sadly, some restaurants are a lot harder to navigate for Paleo choices. If you’re going somewhere that you know will be challenging, consider eating before you leave, so you won’t be tempted.
Chinese
With a few notable exceptions, Chinese restaurants are often associated with their use of MSG and soy. Finding a Paleo option can be very difficult.
Making Paleo Work—Even When You’re Eating Out
While sticking to your Paleo diet is easiest at home, eating out doesn’t have to mean compromising your health goals. By doing a little research beforehand, asking the right questions, and making a few strategic swaps, you can enjoy a delicious meal almost anywhere — without grains, dairy, legumes, or seed oils sneaking onto your plate.
The best Paleo-friendly restaurants tend to be those that celebrate real, whole foods — think grilled meats, seafood, fresh veggies, and simple, honest flavours. Brazilian BBQ, Thai curries with coconut milk, and a good steakhouse are often your best bet. Meanwhile, cuisines heavy on soy, wheat-based sauces, and fried foods (like many standard Chinese takeaways) can be more of a minefield.
If all else fails? There’s no shame in ordering a simple protein with a side of salad or veg and skipping the sauce. Or even eating beforehand and treating yourself to a sparkling water and good company instead.
Paleo Dining Tips for Eating Out with Confidence
If you're following a Paleo lifestyle in Australia or anywhere else, it's absolutely possible to enjoy meals out without compromising your nutrition goals. Eating at a restaurant doesn’t need to be a cheat meal — with the right approach, it can be a perfectly Paleo-friendly experience.
Choosing the Right Restaurant
The first step to a successful Paleo meal out is picking the right venue. Focus on restaurants that centre their menus around whole foods, quality meat, seafood, and fresh produce. Ethnic restaurants like Thai, Korean BBQ, Brazilian BBQ, and Indian often have naturally Paleo dishes, especially if you steer clear of deep-fried items, legumes, and sugary sauces. Steakhouses are also usually a safe bet — just double-check how the meat is cooked and avoid sauces unless you know exactly what's in them.
Many of the best Paleo restaurants will happily accommodate ingredient swaps, like replacing rice or bread with extra vegetables or salad. With a growing number of Australians opting for gluten-free or low-carb options, most kitchens are used to making adjustments. It never hurts to call ahead or speak to your server to explain your preferences politely but clearly.
What to Watch Out For
When dining out, be particularly cautious about hidden ingredients that aren’t Paleo-friendly. These include:
Seed oils (often used in dressings, marinades and for cooking)
Gluten or wheat-based thickeners
Soy sauce and other soy products
Sugar and sweet sauces
Dairy, especially cream-based sauces
These ingredients often sneak into dishes that might otherwise seem Paleo-safe. If you're unsure, it's perfectly fine to ask for sauces and dressings on the side or skip them altogether.
Smart Paleo Substitutes in Restaurants
You don’t need to rely on a Paleo-labelled restaurant to eat well. Here are some easy swaps that work in a wide variety of venues:
Swap grains for veg: Ask for zucchini, broccoli, or seasonal greens in place of pasta, rice or bread.
Skip the bun: Burgers are fine — just ask for no bun and double salad instead of chips.
Choose grilled over fried: If the protein is crumbed or battered, ask for a grilled version if available.
Order simply: Dishes like grilled steak or salmon with steamed veggies are both safe and satisfying.
Go bunless or bowl-style: Many cafés and burger spots now offer lettuce-wrapped options or “naked” versions.
Paleo Dining on the Go
If you're travelling or short on time, there are still plenty of options. In most Australian cities, you’ll find clean takeaway options like grilled chicken shops, sushi (opt for sashimi and salads), and poke bowls (skip the rice and soy sauce). Farmers markets are also fantastic places to grab fresh cooked meals and snacks that are naturally Paleo — think roast meat rolls without the bun or grilled skewers with vegetables.
Eating Out and Staying Social
One of the best things about the Paleo lifestyle is how flexible it can be when done right. Being mindful of what you eat doesn’t mean you need to miss out on dinners with friends or special occasions. Most of the time, a few thoughtful swaps are all it takes to stay on track. And if the options truly are limited? You can always eat beforehand and focus on the social side of the outing.
Australian Paleo-Friendly Restaurant Chains
While independent venues are often more flexible, here are a few Aussie restaurant chains that typically offer Paleo-compliant meals or easy modifications:
Grill’d – Go for a burger in a low-carb or lettuce bun, no sauces, add avo or egg.
Nando’s – Grilled chicken with a garden salad can work well. Skip the sauces.
Schnitz – Order a protein bowl without crumbing, with greens and no dressing.
Roll’d – Ask for a rice paper roll with no noodle filling, or go for a bun-less bowl with meat and veg.
As always, double-check ingredients and don’t hesitate to ask how something is prepared.
Your turn:
Where have you had the best Paleo meal while dining out? Are there any hidden gems in Australia or abroad you'd recommend for fellow Paleo eaters? Drop your tips, favourite spots, and menu hacks in the comments — I’d love to add them to the list for a future update.
And if you’ve ever had a truly terrible Paleo dining experience, tell me that too — sometimes those stories are even more helpful!
Let’s build the ultimate Paleo restaurant guide together.
Do you agree with the best and worst types of restaurants? I’d love to see which restaurants you've found good Paleo options in – and which ones you've found difficult too. Please let me know in the comments, below.
7-Day Paleo Diet Menu Plan
9 CommentsI'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?