Five Paleo Dinners To Cook Next Week #100

I generally think that life feels like a game of whack-a-mole: You just get one things sorted and another thing pops up. But the last few weeks have felt even whackier than usual at our house, and it’s got me thinking very consciously about self care.

We’re no good to others if we forget to fortify ourselves.

So the recipes in this week’s collection are very easy to make and pack a lot of punch with protein and flavor—eat well, sleep soundly, and be kind to yourself so you have the energy to be kind to others.

Dinner Ideas (Whole30 compliant)

Moroccan Meatballs

Cookup Tips: These taste just as good (or maybe better!) on days 2 and 3, and they freeze well, too. Make a batch (or a double batch) on the weekend and enjoy them all week long. They’re nice for breakfast with eggs on top—and reheat well in the microwave if you want to take them to work for lunch.

Recommended Sides: Mashed Cauliflower is pretty nice underneath, as is Cauliflower Rice. Simple Lemon Spinach is a lovely go-along.

Muffaletta Salad

Cookup Tips: This needs protein for a complete meal; I really like it with grilled chicken thighs or Bunless Burgers. The Muffaletta Salad tastes awesome for days!

Recommended Sides: When you add protein, this recipe includes the triumvirate of protein–veggies–fat, so you don’t need anything else.

Elvis Burger

Cookup Tips: Inspired by The King himself. This kissin’ cousin to the SB&J Burger tastes best when you make it just before eating. But it’s fast! And so luscious, you won’t even mind having to cook.

Recommended Sides: Plantains or fries are the way to go! You could have Crispy (green) Plantains, or Pan-Fried (yellow) Plantains, or Parsnip Fries, or Sweet Potato Fries. You can prep the plantains and root veggies in advance, so when you’re ready to eat, all you need to do is crisp them. And don’t forget the Kickass Ketchup!

Cobb Salad

Cookup Tips: You can prep all of the components in advance: roast the chicken, cook the bacon, make the dressing, chop the veggies (except for the avocado; cut that just before eating). Then when it’s time to eat, toss it all together and enjoy!

Recommended Sides: None needed. That’s a win all around.

Moroccan Grilled Salmon

Cookup Tips: This is another recipe that should be made just before you eat it, but the good news: it’s super easy and cooks quite quickly.

Recommended Sides: This Creamy-Spicy Kale has complementary Moroccan flavors, and Balsamic Grilled Butternut Squash is both delicious and in season. No grill? You can make both the salmon and butternut squash in a 450F oven instead.

Treat (Whole30 compliant!?)

Caramelized Coconut Chips

Cookup Tips: These take about 5 minutes to make, so make them “to order” when you need a little snack.

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