20 Best Paleo Recipes for Weight Loss
The paleo diet gets down to the basics. "Paleo," the shortened version of "paleolithic," comes from the idea that humans are supposed to eat just as they did in prehistoric times, when hunting and gathering was a way of life. The modern version of paleo means consuming plenty of fruits, veggies, eggs, seeds, nuts, fish, and lean meats. Eat This, Not That! compiled some of the best paleo recipes for weight loss to add to your weekly rotation.
We also spoke with Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, a registered dietitian and certified specialist in sports dietetics who sits on our Medical Expert Board, who breaks down five key components that make the paleo diet helpful for weight loss: high protein content, whole foods, low-carb intake, increased fiber intake, and the elimination of processed foods.
"Paleo diets emphasize whole foods such as lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. These foods are generally nutrient-dense and can help satisfy hunger, reducing the likelihood of overeating," explains Goodson. "[In addition,] many paleo recipes are rich in protein, which is known to have a satiating effect. Protein helps regulate appetite and can contribute to increased feelings of fullness, potentially reducing overall calorie intake."
Keep reading to learn all about the 20 best paleo recipes for weight loss, and before you start cooking, check out The #1 Best Breakfast Food To Buy at Costco for Weight Loss.
Grilled Mahi-Mahi With Salsa Verde
When it comes to selecting nutritious, weight-loss-friendly recipes on the paleo diet, Goodson encourages you to choose any lean protein, like fish. "Protein helps you get full faster and stay full longer," she explains.
That's what makes this grilled mahi-mahi recipe so deliciously perfect. One serving is just 280 calories and packs a mean flavor punch.
Get our recipe for Grilled Mahi-Mahi With Salsa Verde.
Pork Tenderloin Grilled with Pineapple Salsa
To switch things up a notch, try this scrumptious pork tenderloin prepared with a refreshing pineapple salsa. One serving is just 210 calories, making this recipe an ideal choice for dinner.
Get our recipe for Pork Tenderloin Grilled with Pineapple Salsa.
Thai-Inspired Beef Lettuce Wraps
In addition to fish, Goodson also recommends choosing proteins such as lean beef and poultry. What makes these Thai-inspired beef wraps such a great choice is that they're wrapped in healthy goodness. You'll use lettuce, which will help you nix excess calories.
Get our recipe for Thai-Inspired Beef Lettuce Wraps.
Chicken Under a Brick
This scrumptious recipe takes your same old chicken dinner to the next level. Plus, it's only 280 calories per serving and seamless to put together. You can achieve a mouthwatering barbecue flavor without a calorie-packed BBQ sauce, thanks to this chicken under a brick.
Get our recipe for Chicken Under a Brick.
Chicken Ramen With Shiitake Mushrooms and Spinach
If you're in the mood for a cozy ramen recipe, this recipe is paleo-approved. Ditch ordering in and whip up your own ramen dish at home. One serving of this recipe is 329 calories and provides a whopping 22 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber to leave you satisfied. It also swaps out noodles for zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.
Get our recipe for Chicken Ramen With Shiitake Mushrooms and Spinach.
Easy Turkey-Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash
Fuel your mornings with this easy breakfast hash. "Because the paleo diet does not allow grains, be sure to get carbohydrates from starchy vegetables like winter squash, potatoes, sweet potatoes, or fruit," Goodson recommends. This sweet potato breakfast hash offers carbs from the sweet potatoes, along with veggies and lean protein. One serving is 422 calories and provides 19 grams of fiber and 26 grams of protein.
Get our recipe for Easy Turkey-Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash.
The Easiest Guacamole Recipe You'll Ever Make
Having a solid guacamole recipe on deck is essential. This one is paleo-friendly, and Goodson stresses the importance of incorporating healthy fats into meals (like avocados). One serving is just 190 calories and works perfectly as the topping to a chicken dinner or as a dip with fresh vegetables.
Get our recipe for The Easiest Guacamole Recipe You'll Ever Make.
French-Inspired Tuna Nicoise
This French-inspired tuna nicoise recipe brings together fiber, healthy fat, and protein for a nutritious, filling meal. At 350 calories, you can't go wrong in savoring this meal for lunch or a light dinner.
Get our recipe for French-Inspired Tuna Nicoise.
Honey-Mustard Glazed Salmon With Roasted Asparagus
This grilled salmon is glazed with honey mustard for an elevated take on your classic salmon dinner. It comes full circle with roasted asparagus to make a healthy yet delicious meal.
Get our recipe for Honey-Mustard Glazed Salmon With Roasted Asparagus.
Paleo Blackberry Cashew Chia Pudding
The best part about this blackberry cashew chia pudding? You really can savor it for breakfast or dessert! This creamy pudding is complete with fresh blackberries to add a tart touch to every bite.
Get our recipe for Paleo Blackberry Cashew Chia Pudding.
Creamy Paleo Green Smoothie
This green smoothie is full of creamy deliciousness that will fill you up and satisfy your cravings. The recipe brings together avocado, frozen banana, frozen spinach, and flaxseed for a truly decadent sip.
Get our recipe for Creamy Paleo Green Smoothie.
Paleo Plum Muffins
These healthy paleo plum muffins will hit the spot when savored for snack time or breakfast. And if plums aren't really your jam, feel free to swap them out for fresh blueberries or blackberries instead!
Get our recipe for Paleo Plum Muffins.
Homemade Paleo Granola
Making your own granola is the name of the game, and this homemade paleo granola recipe is a keeper. It's seamless to put together and combines nuts, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, unsweetened coconut powder, and more for a crunchy topping to your yogurt.
Get our recipe for Homemade Paleo Granola.
Paleo Tahini Chocolate Shake
When you're trying to lose weight, taming your sweet tooth can be challenging. That's where this paleo tahini chocolate shake comes into play. It's a healthier alternative to a chocolate milkshake and calls for five healthy ingredients: banana, tahini, cocoa powder, a Medjool date, and almond or cashew milk.
Get our recipe for Paleo Tahini Chocolate Shake.
Paleo Breakfast Sausage
Kick off your morning with a protein boost by whipping up these scrumptious paleo breakfast sausages. This recipe is pretty simple to pull together, and you'll be so glad you tried it.
Get our recipe for Paleo Breakfast Sausage.
Paleo Iced Coffee Protein Shake
This paleo iced coffee protein shake will give you the caffeine you need to power through the morning. Plus, it's super refreshing and only calls for four healthy ingredients, along with ice. All you need to do is combine the ingredients in a blender, pour into your favorite glass, and enjoy!
Get our recipe for Paleo Iced Coffee Protein Shake.
Quick Paleo Thai Beef Stir-Fry
This paleo Thai beef stir-fry is jam-packed with deliciousness, it will only cost you 399 calories, and it can be on the dinner table ready to enjoy in about 35 minutes. It's the ideal meal to whip up on busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of extra time to spare.
Get our recipe for Quick Paleo Thai Beef Stir-Fry.
Paleo Tomato Chicken Curry With Cauliflower Rice
This tomato chicken curry recipe delivers a mean tasty kick. It also opts for cauliflower rice to keep your carb count down. You can thank us later!
Get our recipe for Paleo Tomato Chicken Curry With Cauliflower Rice.
Paleo Banana Bread
A scrumptious banana bread recipe that only takes 10 minutes to prep? We'll take it! This paleo banana bread with a hint of cinnamon will be your new go-to for breakfast.
Get our recipe for Paleo Banana Bread.
Paleo Shakshuka
If casserole is a favorite dish of yours, consider this paleo shakshuka. Our recipe is a warm skillet full of flavor. It provides protein, thanks to the eggs, along with a variety of veggies and spices.
Get our recipe for Paleo Shakshuka.
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