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7-Day Paleo Diet Menu Plan

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:

DayBreakfast / BrunchLunchDinnerSnack / Dessert / Drink
MondayPaleo Salmon BurgersBlanched veggies with guacamole and nut butter dipsChicken and Vegetable KebabsMacadamia Nuts
TuesdayNoOatmealBig Salad with tuna, eggs, nuts, leaves, tomatoes, olives, avocado, capsicum & EVOOLamb-chops, Roasted Parsnips, Onions and Pumpkin
WednesdayBacon, Eggs and AvocadoTurkey Nori-wrapsPorterhouse Steak, Egg, Mushrooms and GreensPaleo Ice Cream
ThursdayEgg MuffinsCapsicum ham sandwiches (capsicum “bread”)Tuna, Asparagus and Cauliflower RiceJerky
FridayRed onion, ham and mushroom omelettePaleo chilli with zucchini noodlesPaleo PizzaStrawberries dipped in dark chocolate
SaturdayPaleo Pancakes with Berry SauceChicken Soup with side saladBarbecue with selection of meats and saladsGlass of red wine
SundayFull 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 carrotsCoconut Yoghurt

7-Day Paleo Diet Menu Plan

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?

A Typical Day in Paleo Meals

Despite trying not going overboard talking about my Paleo diet, it often comes out, especially when I'm out in a group, quizzing waiting staff about exactly what is in each dish and how it’s cooked.  It also becomes quite obvious when I'm the only person tucking into fish and vegetables – instead of eating pizza! I'm always asked (in disbelief) what a Typical Day in Paleo meals looks like.

I explain what I eat and why I don’t eat grains.  This stage often seems to happen whilst the person asking the questions, is tucking into their grain based meal.  Once they've got their head round the impossible – life without grains – they’ll almost always ask me what I actually eat.

So I thought I’d show some photos of a fairly typical working weekday, in Paleo meals.

Breakfast. 

Typical Paleo Breakfast – Bacon, Eggs, and Avocado

On this particular day I had bacon, eggs and avocado.  I avoid supermarket bacon as it’s often very heavily processed with all sorts of ingredients I don’t want to eat.  My local organic butcher makes the best bacon I've had since I've been in Australia.  It’s fresh, made in store, with minimal ingredients.  It comes from organic, non factory farmed pigs.  And the taste really is testament to this.  I cook this in coconut oil (I'm currently using organic, virgin cold pressed, unrefined Melrose Coconut Oil).  Once the bacon is almost ready I cook the eggs in the same pan.  I always use organic, free range eggs – and where I can find them I’ll also often get Omega-3 enriched eggs.  I complete the meal with a few slices of avocado.  This breakfast is a great source of great fats and protein.  At the moment I'm trying to eat within 30 minutes of waking up and it really does seem to be making such a significant difference.  You can read my Paleo breakfast post for more breakfast ideas.

Lunch. 

Paleo Lunch in the City – Roast Beef and Vegetables

Lunch should be something bought in from home so I know I'm eating the best possible ingredients.  However, in the real world I invariably don’t get round to making lunch every day.  This was one such day, where I had to find the best possible Paleo meal in the city.  In this situation, I often choose a roast dinner, on this occasion with roast beef and seasonal vegetables.

Dinner. 

Paleo Dinner – Stuffed Capsicum with Chicken

Dinner is the meal where all the effort, creativity and amazing ingredients go!  I usually plan the week’s dinners at the weekend, then shop to make sure I have all the required ingredients.  This dinner was stuffed capsicum (bell peppers) with a filling of minced beef and lots of veg, herbs and spices.  I have something different most days as I enjoy trying different recipes, cooking and introducing a lot of variety to my diet.

And to Drink?

I drink water all day long with the occasional cup of tea, or hot water with a slice of lemon or lime thrown in for good measure.

How does a typical day in food look for you?  Do you tend to repeat the same meals or go for maximum variety in your diet?

A Typical Day in Paleo Meals – Primal Diet Meal Plan with Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks

Snacks and Mini-Meals: Keeping It Paleo Between Meals

While the main meals of the day are essential, incorporating Paleo-friendly snacks can help maintain energy levels and prevent overeating during meals. Here are some go-to options that align with the Paleo lifestyle:

  • Hard-Boiled Eggs: A portable source of protein and healthy fats, perfect for on-the-go snacking.
  • Mixed Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and cashews provide a satisfying crunch and are rich in nutrients.
  • Fresh Fruit: Berries, apples, and bananas offer natural sweetness and fibre.
  • Vegetable Sticks: Carrot, cucumber, and celery sticks paired with homemade guacamole or almond butter.
  • Beef Jerky: Opt for nitrate-free, grass-fed options without added sugars.

Hydration: Beyond Just Water

Staying hydrated is crucial, and while water should be your primary beverage, there are other Paleo-friendly options to consider:

  • Herbal Teas: Chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos teas are caffeine-free and offer various health benefits.
  • Kombucha: A fermented tea rich in probiotics, aiding in digestion. Ensure it's low in added sugars.
  • Coconut Water: Naturally hydrating and a good source of electrolytes, especially post-workout.
  • Bone Broth: Nutrient-dense and comforting, bone broth provides collagen and minerals.

Meal Prep Tips for a Seamless Paleo Week

Planning and preparing meals in advance can make adhering to the Paleo diet more manageable:

  • Batch Cooking: Prepare large quantities of proteins like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables to use throughout the week.
  • Chop Ahead: Wash and chop vegetables in advance to save time during meal preparation.
  • Use Mason Jars: Layer salads in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches.
  • Freeze Portions: Cook and freeze meals like stews or casseroles for days when time is limited.
  • Keep a Paleo Pantry: Stock up on essentials like coconut oil, almond flour, and canned fish to have the basics on hand.

Dining Out While Staying Paleo

Eating out doesn't have to derail your Paleo lifestyle. Here are some tips to navigate restaurant menus:

  • Research Ahead: Look up menus online to find Paleo-friendly options before arriving.
  • Customize Orders: Don't hesitate to ask for substitutions, like replacing grains with extra vegetables.
  • Choose Grilled Over Fried: Opt for grilled meats and avoid breaded or fried items.
  • Be Cautious with Sauces: Many sauces contain hidden sugars or dairy; ask for them on the side or omit them.
  • Focus on Whole Foods: Salads with protein, grilled meats, and steamed vegetables are typically safe choices.

Listening to Your Body: Adjusting the Paleo Diet to Your Needs

While the Paleo diet provides a solid framework, it's essential to tailor it to your individual needs:

  • Monitor Energy Levels: If you feel fatigued, consider adjusting your carbohydrate intake with more fruits or starchy vegetables.
  • Address Cravings: Occasional cravings for non-Paleo foods can be a sign to diversify your meals or include more healthy fats.
  • Stay Flexible: Life events may require temporary adjustments; it's okay to adapt while maintaining overall Paleo principles.
  • Consult Professionals: If you have specific health concerns, seek guidance from a nutritionist familiar with the Paleo diet.

Conclusion

Embracing the Paleo lifestyle involves more than just meal choices; it's about creating sustainable habits that align with your health goals. By incorporating mindful snacking, diverse hydration options, strategic meal prep, informed dining decisions, and personalised adjustments, you can maintain a fulfilling and balanced Paleo journey. Remember, the key is consistency and listening to your body's needs.

Handling Social Gatherings Whilst Remaining Paleo

Throughout my “official” Whole-30 period, I found it really easy to keep on the Paleo-straight & narrow, without a single cheat.  I think I'm especially fortunate living in Sydney, where many restaurants pride themselves on fairly whole, local (and often organic) food.  I eat out fairly often, and continued to do so during the 30-day challenge.  I've always avoided certain types of restaurant, so that wasn't a problem.  In the restaurants I did eat in, without exception there have always been a few meals on the menu that are Paleo (for example fish and vegetables) and even more meals that I can “tweak” to make them Paleo (swapping the fries for a salad for example, and asking for no sauce/ dressing).

Last weekend however, I encountered my first Paleo difficulty.  I was invited out for a friend’s Birthday as a Moroccan restaurant in the Sydney.  However, as we were such a large group, we had to have the set menu.   I’d been quite busy, so just had a cursory glance at the menu a few weeks ago.  I saw “beef” and “chicken” and assumed I’d be able to make it work, and left it there.  Had I looked properly, I would have called the restaurant ahead as often, with notice, they can be very accommodating.  Fortunately I played it safe and had a late lunch on the day, a tactic I often employ before social events.  I've found there is nothing worse and more challenging than being ravenously hungry, surrounded by less than optimal food options.

We started with bread and dips.  One of the dips seemed to be egg plant, but with nothing to “dip” in it, I gave that a miss.

We were then presented with a Tabouli Salad, which after asking about the ingredients I dived into.  It contained parsley, mint, onion, olive oil, lemon & something called Bulgar.  After the first two mouthfuls I found out Bulgar is basically wheat, so didn't have any more of that.  Why put wheat into a lovely salad?

Handling Social Gatherings Whilst Remaining Paleo diet primal party dinner friends socialising-min

With the salad came Halloumi Cheese (I’m avoiding dairy, as I’ve felt so good since I eliminated it for my Whole30), Fried Cauliflower with Eggplant jam (sugar!), pinenuts and yoghurt (more dairy).  I was starting to get a bit embarrassed by this stage that I hadn’t eaten more than two mouthfuls, so I was very relieved when the next dish was BBQ Garlic & Harissa Octopus & Skordalia.  Octopus – perfect.  One of the things I love about eating out is having things like Octopus that I would never have at home.  Octopus is supposed to have a good amount of Omega 3, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and selenium, so a good option.  I’ve since found out that sometimes Skordalia is made stale bread in the puree; or potatoes, walnuts or almonds in olive oil; but I guess you can’t win them all.  The other dish in this course was the Moroccan equivalent to Spring Rolls; spicy lamb & pinenut boreks, with yoghurt sauce.  Didn’t have any of that either.

I was sat with lots of people I’d not met before, who were very interested in my “unusual” diet and why I was quizzing the waiting staff about what was in every dish.  I love talking about Paleo, and it definitely helps to be upfront about what you’re doing.  I always find it interesting to hear how others perceive Paleo – the main response I get time after time is how impossible they would find it to give up bread.

The main dishes would have to be more Paleo, surely!  Fortunately they were, we had: –

  • Lemon Pepper Chicken Shish Kebab with Tomato Caraway Sauce, Served with Chickpea & Nut Pilaf Lamb Kafta Shish Kebab with Pomegranate Glaze, Served with Chickpea & Nut Pilaf
  • Beef Cheek Tagine with Sweet Potato & Caramelised Onions, Served with Carrot Steamed Couscous

Served with

  • Fattoush Salad Sumac and fries
The Chicken and Beef Tagine were great, and better still my fellow dinners were so full up on the bread, pastry and beer that there was plenty left for me.  Luckily I realised the Fattoush salad contained pita bread pieces (why?) before I took any.Dessert was a beautifully presented sugar laden meringue with ice cream and lots of miniature sweets and cakes.  I used to have such a sweet tooth, but I noticed my attitude towards food like this has completely changed. I wasn't even remotely tempted by these items.  When I look at food like this, instead of the enjoyment and taste I used to see, I now see the unwanted insulin spike it will give me, the less than par feeling I’d get an hour later and the Gluten, Phytates & Lectins in the grains creating all sorts of problems I just don’t want.I left the meal $57 lighter, but feeling great – which certainly wouldn't have been the case had I indulged as I would have pre-Paleo.Going to a social event with non-Paleo friends soon?  Here are my top three tips to make the occasion as Paleo friendly as possible: -1.       Find out what food will be offered in advance – call the restaurant several days in advance to explain your requirements and see if they can help you out2.       Be open with the people you’re with about what you’re doing & why3.       Don’t go to the event hungry, this will make it much harder for you to find your way through the maze of SAD food to the best Paleo choicesHow do you manage social situations with SAD food?  Are your friends supportive?  Do you find particular social events better than others?  Let me know in the comments!