Eating paleo doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor or variety. Here are three diverse and practical examples of paleo lunch recipes that you can enjoy whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go. Each recipe is designed to be simple, satisfying, and packed with nutrients.
This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch that’s both refreshing and filling. The lettuce wraps are a great alternative to traditional bread, making this a wonderful option for those following a paleo diet.
Start by cooking 2 chicken breasts (about 1 pound) in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, approximately 15-20 minutes. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with 1/4 cup of mayonnaise (make sure it’s paleo-friendly), the juice of one lime, 1/2 diced red bell pepper, and a handful of chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To serve, take large romaine or butter lettuce leaves and spoon the chicken mixture into the center. Wrap the lettuce around the filling and enjoy your zesty chicken salad wraps!
Notes: You can add diced avocado for extra creaminess or substitute the chicken with canned tuna for a quick variation.
A warm and hearty hash is a great way to enjoy a filling paleo lunch. This sweet potato and spinach hash is loaded with nutrients and flavor, making it a comforting option.
Begin by peeling and dicing 2 medium sweet potatoes into small cubes. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften. Next, add 2 cups of fresh spinach and 1/2 diced onion to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the onions become translucent.
For added protein, you can fry an egg in a separate pan and place it on top of the hash before serving. This dish is not only delicious but also looks great on the plate!
Notes: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also spice it up with paprika or chili powder if you like a little heat.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch that’s packed with protein, this beef and broccoli stir-fry is an excellent choice. It’s vibrant, delicious, and comes together in under 30 minutes!
Start by slicing 1 pound of flank steak into thin strips. In a bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of coconut aminos (a paleo-friendly soy sauce substitute), 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger. Marinate the beef in this mixture for about 10 minutes.
While the beef is marinating, steam 2 cups of broccoli florets until they are bright green and tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef to the skillet and stir-fry until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the steamed broccoli and toss everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve your beef and broccoli stir-fry hot, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
Notes: You can swap the broccoli for other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. For a little extra flavor, consider adding garlic to the stir-fry.
These examples of paleo lunch recipes are not just healthy; they showcase the variety and richness of flavors available in the paleo diet! Enjoy your cooking adventures!