12 Easy and Nutritious Paleo Recipes for Busy Families
Planning Meals With Your Kids
By following these guidelines, you can foster a sustainable and enjoyable approach to healthy eating. Now, it's time to dive into some delicious and easy-to-make paleo recipes that your kids will love!
The Power of Cooking Together
Encourage creativity and curiosity Cooking together is not only a fun bonding experience but also an opportunity to encourage creativity and curiosity in your kids. Experiment with different ingredients, flavors, and textures, and let your child explore their culinary interests. H3:
Build confidence and independence
By involving your children in the cooking process, you can help them build confidence and independence. As they learn to prepare their own meals, they'll develop a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities.
Teach valuable life skills
Cooking together teaches your children valuable life skills, such as planning, organization, and time management.
These abilities will serve them well beyond the kitchen, fostering personal growth and development. Involving your children in the cooking process not only makes it a fun and interactive experience, but it also sets the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of healthy, wholesome food.
Paleo Almond Butter and Jelly Pockets: A Kid-Friendly Delight
Introducing your children to delicious and nutritious paleo recipes can be an exciting adventure for both you and your kids.
With our Almond Butter and Fruit Spread Foldovers, you'll find a simple yet delightful snack that's perfect for an after-school treat or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Made with wholesome ingredients, these foldovers provide a paleo-friendly alternative to traditional quesadillas.
Ingredients
2 large paleo-friendly tortillas (made from almond or coconut flour)
4 tbsp almond butter
4 tbsp paleo-friendly fruit spread
Instructions
Begin by laying out the paleo-friendly tortillas on a clean work surface, ensuring there's enough space for the almond butter and fruit spread.
Carefully spread 2 tablespoons of almond butter on one half of each tortilla, creating a nice, even layer that covers the surface. Next, spread 2 tablespoons of paleo-friendly fruit spread on the other half of each tortilla, complementing the almond butter with a touch of natural sweetness.
Gently fold the tortillas in half, pressing the almond butter and fruit spread sides together, sealing in the delightful combination of flavors. Warm up a large skillet over medium heat, and once heated, place the foldovers in the skillet, cooking them for 1-2 minutes on each side.
This will give them a slightly crispy texture and ensure they are warmed through.
Remove the foldovers from the skillet, and serve them warm. If desired, you can slice each foldover in half for easier handling or sharing. These Almond Butter and Fruit Spread Foldovers are a perfect example of how Paleo-friendly recipes can be both tasty and satisfying.
Enjoy these Almond Butter and Fruit Spread Foldovers with your kids, and have fun exploring the Paleo lifestyle together with these delicious, nutritious recipes.
Caveman Crunchies: Tasty Paleo Chicken Nuggets
Introducing your kids to the paleo lifestyle doesn't mean they have to miss out on their favorite treats.
With these homemade paleo chicken nuggets, your little ones can enjoy a healthier version of a popular snack that is both delicious and guilt-free. Made with wholesome ingredients and paleo-friendly cooking oils, these chicken nuggets are perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a fun family dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 cup almond flour 1/4 cup coconut flour 1 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp garlic powder Salt and pepper, to taste 2 large eggs, beaten Coconut oil or ghee, for greasing (alternatively, you can use avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil)
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Grease a baking sheet with your choice of paleo-friendly cooking oil, such as coconut oil, ghee, avocado oil, or extra virgin olive oil.
In a shallow dish, mix together the almond flour, coconut flour, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, creating a flavorful coating for the chicken nuggets. One by one, dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Then, dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, covering them evenly on all sides. Place the coated chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each nugget to allow for even cooking.
Bake the chicken nuggets for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them during the baking process to ensure they don't overcook or dry out.
Remove the chicken nuggets from the oven and serve them with your favorite Paleo-friendly dipping sauce, such as homemade honey mustard or a spicy mayo.
These Paleo chicken nuggets are a fantastic way to introduce your kids to healthier alternatives to their favorite snacks. Enjoy this versatile recipe as you continue your journey into the world of Paleo eating together.
Fish Stick Frenzy: Tasty Paleo Treats
Just like our homemade chicken nuggets, these fish sticks are made with wholesome ingredients and offer a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. Your kids will enjoy the crunchy, golden exterior and tender, flavorful fish inside, making this recipe a perfect addition to your paleo repertoire.
Ingredients
1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into strips 1 cup almond flour 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut 1 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp garlic powder Salt and pepper, to taste 2 large eggs, beaten Coconut oil for frying
Instructions
Begin by preparing your fish fillets, cutting them into evenly-sized strips suitable for fish sticks. In a shallow dish, mix the almond flour, shredded coconut, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, creating a crunchy and flavorful coating for your fish sticks.
One at a time, dip the fish strips into the beaten eggs, making sure they are fully coated. Next, dredge them in the almond flour mixture, ensuring an even and thorough coating on all sides. In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat, preparing it for frying the fish sticks.
Fry the fish sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking them until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Once cooked, carefully remove the fish sticks from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve these delicious Paleo Fish Sticks with your favorite Paleo-friendly dipping sauce, just like you would with the Paleo Chicken Nuggets.
These scrumptious Paleo Fish Sticks are another fantastic way to introduce your kids to healthier, Paleo-friendly snack options.
Enjoy these tasty recipes as you continue to explore and embrace the Paleo lifestyle together with your family.
Mouthwatering Mini Paleo Meatloaves
These delightful individual-sized meatloaves are made with wholesome ingredients, ensuring a nutritious and satisfying meal for the whole family.
The added veggies not only provide extra nutrients but also keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful. Let's dive into the recipe for these scrumptious mini meatloaves.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef 1/2 cup almond flour 1/2 cup finely chopped onion 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper 1/2 cup grated zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture) 1 large egg 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp dried thyme Salt and pepper, to taste 1/4 cup paleo-friendly ketchup
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare a muffin tin by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper cups, ensuring easy removal of the mini meatloaves once they're baked.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, onion, bell pepper, zucchini, egg, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the meatloaf mixture.
Divide the meat mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups. Press down gently on each portion to fill the cups and create a uniform shape for your mini meatloaves.
Add a finishing touch to each mini meatloaf by topping them with a spoonful of Paleo-friendly ketchup, giving them a tangy and delicious glaze.
Bake the mini meatloaves for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
Once cooked, allow the meatloaves to cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin before removing them and serving.
These delectable Mini Paleo Meatloaves make for a fantastic family dinner that kids will adore. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and nourishing Paleo meal.
Enjoy the smiles and satisfied tummies as your family digs into this delicious and healthy dish.
Cauliflower Crust Pizza
With the combination of almond flour, coconut flour, and cauliflower, this crust achieves a fantastic texture and taste that will have your family asking for seconds. Let's dive into the recipe for this scrumptious Paleo pizza.
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets 1/2 cup almond flour 1/4 cup coconut flour 2 large eggs 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp dried oregano 1/4 tsp salt Paleo-friendly pizza sauce Toppings of your choice (e.g. cooked meats, vegetables, Paleo-friendly cheese)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a pizza stone or baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your crust.
Using a food processor, pulse the cauliflower florets until they reach a rice-like texture. Transfer the processed cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 4-5 minutes, or until softened. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
Once cooled, place the cauliflower into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving a firm and crispy crust.
In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower, almond flour, coconut flour, eggs, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until a dough forms.
Press the dough onto the prepared parchment paper, shaping it into a circle or rectangle approximately 1/4-inch thick. Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes, or until it turns golden and feels firm to the touch. Remove the crust from the oven and spread a thin layer of pPleo-friendly pizza sauce over it.
Add your choice of toppings, such as cooked meats, vegetables, or Paleo-friendly cheese. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the toppings are heated through and the cheese, if using, is melted.
This delicious Cauliflower Crust Paleo Pizza is the perfect way to enjoy a family pizza night while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Serve it with a fresh salad or your favorite roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Relish in the flavors and the joy of sharing a nourishing and tasty dish with your loved ones.
Rainbow Veggie Skewers
One such delicious and visually appealing choice is the Rainbow Veggie Skewers.
Packed with an array of colorful vegetables and optional protein, these skewers are perfect for teaching your kids about the importance of including a variety of whole, unprocessed foods in their diet.
Ingredients
Assorted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red onion, mushrooms) Olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: cubed chicken or shrimp for added protein
Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
Get creative with veggies
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Chop the vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces, making sure to include an assortment of vibrant colors to make the skewers more appealing to kids.
Skewer the rainbow Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating the colors and types of vegetables.
If using chicken or shrimp, add them to the skewers as well. This is a fun activity for kids to participate in, as they can create their own combinations.
Season and grill Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, and the chicken or shrimp is cooked through.
Serve and enjoy Serve the warm Rainbow Veggie Skewers with a side of Paleo-friendly dipping sauce.
Encourage your kids to taste and enjoy the variety of flavors and textures in each bite, while appreciating the nutritious benefits of a Paleo-friendly meal.
Cauliflower Fried "Rice": A Kid-Friendly Paleo Twist
Cauliflower fried "rice" is an excellent example of how you can take a classic dish and put a Paleo-friendly spin on it. With a mix of colorful vegetables and an option to add protein, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets 2 tbsp coconut oil or ghee, divided 1 small onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn, green beans) 2 large eggs, beaten 3 tbsp coconut aminos or Paleo-friendly soy sauce alternative 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Optional: cooked and diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein
Instructions
Start by transforming the cauliflower: In a food processor, pulse the cauliflower florets until they resemble a rice-like texture.
This will serve as the base for your fried "rice" and will provide a similar texture to traditional rice without the grains. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of coconut oil or ghee over medium heat.
This choice of cooking fat ensures that you're sticking to the Paleo guidelines while still providing a delicious flavor.
Add the onion and garlic, and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. This will build a flavorful foundation for your dish.
Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until heated through. These colorful veggies not only provide essential nutrients but also make the dish visually appealing to kids.
Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the remaining 1 tbsp of coconut oil or ghee. Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and scramble until fully cooked.
This adds a boost of protein to the meal. Add the cauliflower "rice" and cooked protein (if using) to the skillet, and stir to combine.
Your kids won't even notice the difference between this and traditional fried rice! Drizzle the coconut or soy sauce alternative over the cauliflower fried "rice" and mix well. This gives the dish its signature savory flavor while staying within Paleo guidelines.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cauliflower is heated through and the flavors have melded together. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions. This final touch adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, making it a healthy and satisfying meal that your kids will love.
Sweet Potato Hash with Sausage and Eggs
This nutritious and flavorful dish combines sweet potatoes, sausage, and eggs to create a hearty breakfast that will keep your kids energized throughout the morning.
Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, this sweet potato hash is the perfect way to introduce your children to the Paleo lifestyle and show them that healthy eating can be delicious and enjoyable.
Ingredients
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (Paleo-friendly) 1 small onion, diced 1 bell pepper, diced 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp garlic powder Salt and pepper, to taste 4 large eggs 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
In a large skillet, brown the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
Once cooked through, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes, onion, and bell pepper.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the vegetables are softened. Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and mix well, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Using a spoon, create four wells in the hash mixture. Crack an egg into each well, and cover the skillet with a lid.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Sprinkle the hash with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm, directly from the skillet.
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Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries: A Tasty and Nutrient-Packed Snack
Baked instead of fried, these zucchini fries provide a satisfying crunch without the excess oil, making them an excellent addition to your Paleo recipe collection.
Ingredients
2 medium zucchini, cut into thin, fry-like strips 1 cup almond flour 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, omit for strict Paleo) 1 tsp Italian seasoning 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp salt 2 large eggs, beaten Olive oil or cooking spray, for greasing
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil or cooking spray.
In a shallow dish, combine the almond flour, parmesan cheese (if using), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Dip each zucchini strip into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, and then coat with the almond flour mixture.
Arrange the coated zucchini fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini fries are golden brown and crispy.
Serve warm with your favorite Paleo-friendly dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch. Integrating these two new recipes alongside the previously mentioned dishes, like the Paleo Banana Pancakes and the Cauliflower Fried "Rice," will further emphasize the versatility of the Paleo diet.
With a wide array of satisfying and nutrient-dense options, your children will be more than eager to embrace this wholesome lifestyle.
Paleo Banana Pancakes: The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Morning Treat
In addition to the previously mentioned dishes, these pancakes showcase the versatility of Paleo-friendly ingredients and prove that introducing the Paleo lifestyle to your children doesn't have to be a challenge.
With their fluffy texture and natural sweetness, these pancakes will become a family favorite in no time. Paleo Banana Pancakes:
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, mashed 4 large eggs 1/2 cup almond flour 1/4 cup tapioca flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp cinnamon Pinch of salt Coconut oil or ghee, for greasing
Optional: fresh berries, sliced almonds, and Paleo-friendly maple syrup for serving
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, almond flour, tapioca flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined, creating a smooth batter. Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with a small amount of coconut oil or ghee to ensure the pancakes won't stick.
Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake, leaving ample space between them for easy flipping. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to set. Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Serve the Paleo Banana Pancakes warm, topped with optional fresh berries, sliced almonds, and a drizzle of Paleo-friendly maple syrup. Enjoy these delightful pancakes with your kids, while also incorporating other nutritious Paleo recipes like the Cauliflower Fried "Rice" or Rainbow Veggie Skewers into their meal rotation.
By introducing these mouthwatering and wholesome Paleo dishes, you can ensure your children are consuming a balanced and nutritious diet while still enjoying their meals. These pancakes are not only a fantastic example of a delicious Paleo breakfast but also a testament to the endless possibilities of healthy and kid-friendly meals within the Paleo lifestyle.
Sweet Potato & Spinach Breakfast Muffins
Get ready to delight your kids with a healthy and delicious breakfast option that's packed with nutrients! These Sweet Potato & Spinach Breakfast Muffins are not only Paleo-friendly but also easy to make and perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients
2 cups sweet potato, grated 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped 1 cup almond flour 1/2 cup coconut flour 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 4 large eggs, beaten 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: 1/2 cup Paleo-friendly chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with parchment paper cups.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated sweet potato, chopped spinach, almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and mix until well combined. Fold in the optional chocolate chips or chopped nuts, if desired.
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one about 2/3 full.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Serve these tasty and nutritious Sweet Potato & Spinach Breakfast Muffins to fuel your kids' day, and watch them become a morning favorite in your household.
Zucchini Noodle Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
4 medium zucchini, spiralized or julienned into noodles 2 cups fresh basil leaves 1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup nutritional yeast or Paleo-friendly grated cheese 2 cloves garlic, minced Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: cherry tomatoes, halved and cooked protein of choice (e.g., grilled chicken, shrimp)
Instructions
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, nuts, olive oil, nutritional yeast or cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until a smooth pesto sauce forms. Set aside. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly softened but still al dente.
Drain any excess liquid from the skillet, then return the zucchini noodles to the heat. Add the pesto sauce, and toss to coat the noodles evenly. If desired, mix in halved cherry tomatoes and your choice of cooked protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, for a complete meal.
Serve the zucchini noodle pesto pasta warm, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkling of nutritional yeast or cheese, if desired.
With its enticing flavors and healthy ingredients, this Zucchini Noodle Pesto Pasta will soon become a go-to meal that satisfies both taste buds and nutritional needs for the entire family.
Making Better Food & Snack Choices
These paleo recipes are perfect for introducing your kids to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Each dish is packed with delicious flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients that will nourish their growing bodies and fuel their active days. As you continue to explore the paleo diet with your family, consider keeping PALEO RANCH® Protein Bars on hand as a convenient and tasty snack option. Made with high-quality, real-food ingredients, these protein bars are free from artificial additives and align perfectly with the paleo lifestyle. So go ahead, whip up these amazing recipes and let your kids experience the joys of wholesome eating while you relish in the knowledge that you're setting them on a path to a healthier, happier future.
Integrating Paleo Principles into Kid-Friendly Recipes
Redefining Your Child's Relationship with Food Adopting a Paleo diet for your kids doesn't mean they have to settle for boring or bland food, nor should they ever feel hungry. Instead, the focus should be on helping them understand the importance of mindful eating and paying attention to what they put into their bodies.
From the occasional slice of cake at a party to their favorite snack from the vending machine, choosing Paleo-friendly alternatives can help your child avoid the unhealthy cycle of overeating. Many processed foods contain ingredients that are designed to make us crave them, regardless of their impact on our health.
By opting for Paleo options, you can ensure your child enjoys delicious meals without sacrificing their well-being. It's not just food that can become addictive, but drinks like coffee, soda, and other "soft" beverages as well. Many people experience headaches when they don't get their regular caffeine fix, which can be relieved by satisfying their cravings. This addiction can extend to processed foods and drinks, which can trigger cravings and physical effects when you go without them.
By incorporating Paleo principles into your child's diet, you can help them avoid developing the same level of addiction to processed foods that many people experience. This approach promotes healthier eating habits and encourages them to enjoy wholesome, natural ingredients that not only taste great but also provide essential nutrients for growing bodies.
Incorporating Paleo-friendly recipes into your child's meal plan can be a fun and delicious way to promote healthy eating habits and foster a better relationship with food. Teaching them to steer clear of processed ingredients and focusing on whole foods means you're setting your child up for a lifetime of healthy choices.
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The rise of the use of additives, GMOs, complex ingredients, and processed foods consumed has coincided with the rise of numerous short-term & chronic illnesses, eating simple, unprocessed foods gives you everything that your body needs without harmful additives, ingredients, and potential long-term effects.
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