The Paleo diet, centred on the types of foods presumed to have been eaten by early humans, emphasizes whole foods like lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. It’s a diet that not only supports healthy eating but also simplifies meal preparation — especially when it comes to one-pot meals. Here, we explore ten Paleo-friendly one-pot meals that are perfect for busy weeknights.
1. Spicy Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Start with your favourite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Add in diced chicken breast, season with garlic, ginger, and a dash of coconut aminos for a soy sauce substitute. Stir-fry everything in a large pot or wok for a quick, flavourful dish.
2. Beef and Butternut Squash Stew
This stew combines beef chunks, butternut squash, carrots, and onions, all simmered in a savoury broth flavoured with garlic, rosemary, and thyme. It’s a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.
3. One-Pot Lemon Herb Salmon and courgette
Lay slices of lemon and zucchini on the bottom of the pot, place salmon fillets on top, and sprinkle with dill, parsley, and garlic. The steamed salmon is tender, and the zucchini soaks up all the citrus-herb flavours.
4. Paleo Jambalaya
Swap traditional rice for cauliflower rice in this Paleo twist on a Creole classic. Mix with shrimp, chicken, and andouille sausage (check for Paleo-friendly options), then season with a blend of Cajun spices for a one-pot meal that packs a punch.
5. Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili
Lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and bell peppers come together in this hearty chili. Cumin, chili powder, and paprika add depth and heat. It’s a simple, robust dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
6. Moroccan Chicken and Apricot Tagine
In a large pot, combine chicken thighs, apricots, olives, and a host of warming spices like cinnamon and turmeric. The result is a sweet and savoury dish with complex flavours that develop beautifully as they simmer together. Serve this aromatic dish on its own for a truly Paleo meal, or with a side of cauliflower rice for an extra filling dinner.
7. Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Create a rich, creamy sauce using coconut cream as the base. Brown the chicken thighs in a pot, then add mushrooms and cook until they’re golden. Garlic, onion, and herbs bring this creamy dish together. It’s a luxurious yet simple meal that’s dairy-free and satisfying.
8. King prawn and Asparagus Skillet
This quick-cooking meal features shrimp and asparagus sautéed with lemon zest and garlic in olive oil. It’s a light, nutritious, and zesty dish that comes together in less than 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a fast weeknight dinner.
9. Sausage and Cabbage Skillet
For a hearty, rustic meal, brown some Paleo-friendly sausages with onion and garlic, then add shredded cabbage, cooking until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. Apple cider vinegar gives a tangy kick to this simple, one-pan wonder.
10. Balsamic Basil Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Sauté chicken breast pieces in a pot with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and basil for a Mediterranean flair. Stir in ‘riced’ cauliflower for the last few minutes of cooking for a grain-free bowl that’s full of flavour and texture.
Final thoughts
These ten one-pot Paleo recipes demonstrate that you can enjoy delicious, healthful meals without spending hours in the kitchen — perfect for busy weeknights. With these dishes, you can stick to your Paleo principles and still enjoy a variety of flavours and ingredients that will satisfy your taste buds and your time constraints. Enjoy the process of cooking these one-pot wonders and the extra time you’ll have to relax after a nourishing meal.