When it comes to following a Paleo diet during the holidays, you may be wondering which typical holiday foods are considered Paleo-friendly. While many traditional holiday dishes may seem off-limits due to their non-Paleo ingredients, there are actually plenty of options that can be adapted to fit within the guidelines of a Paleo diet. Let’s explore some popular holiday foods and how you can enjoy them while still staying true to your Paleo lifestyle.
Proteins
- Turkey: A staple of many holiday meals, turkey is a great Paleo-friendly option. Opt for a pasture-raised, organic turkey to ensure the highest quality.
- Ham: While some hams may contain added sugars or artificial ingredients, you can find Paleo-friendly options that are free from these additives.
- Beef roast: Grass-fed beef is a Paleo-approved protein that can be a delicious main dish for your holiday meal.
Vegetables
- Roasted brussels sprouts: Seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roasted brussels sprouts make a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
- Sweet potato casserole: Swap traditional marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole for a Paleo version sweetened with natural ingredients like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
- Green beans: A simple side dish of sautéed or roasted green beans can add a pop of color and nutrients to your holiday plate.
Side Dishes
- Cauliflower mash: Instead of traditional mashed potatoes, try a creamy cauliflower mash seasoned with garlic and herbs.
- Grain-free stuffing: Make a Paleo-friendly stuffing using almond flour or coconut flour in place of traditional breadcrumbs.
- Cranberry sauce: Skip the canned cranberry sauce loaded with sugar and make your own Paleo version sweetened with honey or maple syrup.
Desserts
- Pumpkin pie: Use a grain-free crust made with almond flour or coconut flour and sweeten your pumpkin pie filling with natural sweeteners like honey or dates.
- Apple crisp: A Paleo-friendly apple crisp can be made with a nut-based crumble topping and no refined sugars.
- Dark chocolate truffles: Indulge your sweet tooth with rich dark chocolate truffles made with dairy-free coconut milk and sweetened with honey.
Beverages
- Herbal tea: Enjoy a warm cup of herbal tea after your meal for a soothing and digestion-friendly beverage.
- Sparkling water: Stay hydrated with sparkling water flavored with fresh citrus or herbs for a festive touch.
- Homemade eggnog: Make a Paleo-friendly eggnog using coconut milk, eggs, and natural sweeteners for a creamy holiday treat.