Sweet Potato Pizzas

Everyone has their weaknesses, their diet-busters, their evil temptresses.  One of mine, as you may have guessed, is popcorn.  Unfortunately, since I am striving to lead a Paleo lifestyle, popcorn is a no-go.  (Still searching for a good nut-free Paleo cracker recipe.  If you find one, please pass it on!)  The big temptation for my husband is pizza.  He is a pizza fanatic.  So when he pointed this recipe out to me online, he asked me to make it for him, hoping to scratch the pizza itch in a healthier way.

To be honest, I thought it sounded gross.  The ingredients didn't sound like they'd combine into something I wanted to eat.  Thankfully, I was a good wife and made him what he wanted.  I tried a bite ... and LOVED it!  So happy I trusted him!  These Sweet Potato Pizzas are not the same as a crispy-crusted calorie bomb from your favorite pie shop, but they are a tasty dish nonetheless.  And if you are craving pizza but don't want the gluten-and-grain crust, here is a good place to go to feed your need.  Find my recipe at GCH.

Strawberry Shortcake (Gluten-Free)

I made this coconut flour cake for my 2 year-old's birthday last weekend and it was a big hit.  Really sweet strawberries are at the farmer's market now! If you are eating Paleo (and can spare a little wiggle room for honey), if you are avoiding gluten, or if you just want a healthier, updated version of the old comfort food favorite, read on, at GCH!  

Broccoli Bacon Salad

Bacon!  Do I have your attention?  Make sure everyone eats their greens by combining them with bacon!  My Mom made this for nearly every summer barbecue, and I'm sure it will quickly become a favorite for your family too.  Make it your own and change out the raisins for dried cherries or cranberries, or sub almonds or cashews for the sunflower seeds.  Many happy returns, at GCH!

Two Paleo Breakfasts

Kale and Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs

My Paleo Challenge is complete!  Five weeks of eschewing grains, sugar, dairy, legumes, and alcohol. Okay, I slipped up once or twice; I couldn't resist the glass of wine with my Dad at dinner one night.  But otherwise I was a good little cavewoman and made my Paleolithic ancestors proud.  The winners of the competition will be announced this Saturday - I'm not holding my breath, and I doubt I'll win, but  I WILL show up for the Paleo Potluck part of the evening!

One of the principles of the Paleo diet is eating the right nutrients at every meal:  protein, fat, and slow-release carbohydrates.  This is most important for breakfast, since we haven't eaten for ten our twelve hours!  My two favorite breakfasts during the Challenge were a Spinach Scramble, and Kale and Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs.  These were tasty, protein-laden plates that were easy to make, and easy to make ahead to save time in the morning.  They're even substantial enough for a Meatless Monday meal.  Check out my recipes at GCH!

Spinach Scramble

Chicken en Papillote with Homemade Pesto

One of the tenets of the Paleo diet, especially when you are exercising a few times a week, is making sure you get enough protein.  I confess, as a former vegetarian, I don't always enjoy meat.  Chicken breasts in particular can be tough for me to get down, since they so often turn out dry and mealy.  But they are such an easy and versatile source of protein - how do I make them moist and flavorful instead of chalky and yuck?

This recipe solved my chicken breast dilemma!  Cooking "en papillote" means cooking in paper - parchment paper to be exact.  Cooking the breasts with some vegetables inside a sealed packet means all the moisture stays locked inside.  Groovy!  Even better?  The homemade pesto adds flavor, fat, and a burst of fresh green springtime color.

If you need a clean source of protein, check out the recipe.  If you love pesto, check out the recipe.  And if you like both, definitely read on at GCH!

Coconut Flour Pancakes

I wish I could take credit for this recipe, because it is fantastic!  If you are eating Paleo, going gluten-free, or just trying to cut back on not-so-healthy white and processed foods like refined flour, you owe it to yourself to try these.  Higher in protein and fiber, and lower in carbs, coconut flour is an exciting ingredient for adherents to many different diets, and those who love them.  Check out the recipe at I posted over at GCH - and definitely try them with honey and strawberries!

Baba Ghanouj (Eggplant Dip)

So ... the Paleo Challenge starts tomorrow.  D-Day for being photographed in my bikini and then performing a serious, muscle-shaking, face-reddening workout.  But I think I'm getting my Paleo diet dialed in and I will just have to be strong and face this challenge.  I doubt I'll get much sleep tonight, due to nerves, but I will carry on just the same.  Wish me luck!

It is a small comfort knowing I have some good snack options at the ready.  One is this recipe for baba ghanouj.  You've probably had it alongside hummus and pita at Middle Eastern restaurants.  It's surprisingly easy to make at home.  If you are grilling, I highly recommend you roast the eggplants on the grill - this will add another layer of smoky depth.  But I made mine in the oven and it is certainly snack-worthy!  And since, like the Paleo hummus, it's made entirely of healthy olive oil, sesame seed paste, and vegetables, you can nibble without fear of wrecking your weight loss efforts!  Ready?  Find it at GCH, and let me know what you think!

Crackers, pita, and pretzels are all very tasty dippers ... but not Paleo.