Looking to try the Whole30 diet? You’re in luck! We’ve put together a collection of 20 tasty Whole30 recipes to help you on your journey.
These meals are not only compliant with the program’s rules, but they’re also delicious and easy to make.
These Whole30 recipes will keep you satisfied and on track with your health goals.
From breakfast options to dinner ideas, you’ll find a variety of dishes to enjoy.
Whether you’re a seasoned Whole30 veteran or just starting out, these recipes will add some excitement to your meal plan and make sticking to the program a breeze.
1. Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Lemon garlic chicken thighs are a tasty and easy Whole30 meal. You can make them in a skillet on the stove or in the oven.
Start by seasoning chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano or thyme.
Sear the chicken in a hot pan until the skin is crispy.
Add minced garlic and lemon juice to the pan. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for a couple minutes.
Flip the chicken to coat it in the flavorful sauce.
For extra flavor, you can add chicken broth and rosemary. The dish pairs well with roasted potatoes or zucchini on the side.
2. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Zucchini noodles with pesto offer a tasty Whole30-compliant dish. You can easily make this meal at home using a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles.
Start by preparing a homemade pesto sauce. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil. Remember to skip the cheese to keep it Whole30-friendly.
Heat some olive oil in a pan and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
Then, toss in your raw zucchini noodles and cook briefly.
Finally, mix the pesto with your zucchini noodles. For extra protein, add some cooked chicken.
This quick and simple meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Spaghetti Squash Bolognese
This tasty Whole30 dish swaps pasta for a veggie-packed alternative. Start by prepping the spaghetti squash. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and roast it in the oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes.
While the squash cooks, make the bolognese sauce. Sauté onions and veggies, then add ground beef and cook until done.
For a smoother sauce, blend the cooked veggies before adding the meat.
Once the squash is tender, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands.
Top with the meaty sauce and enjoy your low-carb, Whole30-compliant meal.
4. Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs
Sweet potato hash with eggs is a tasty Whole30 breakfast option. Start by heating coconut oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
Add diced sweet potatoes and cook until they start to brown.
Toss in some crumbled sausage and cook until it’s no longer pink.
Sprinkle in seasonings like garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Make small wells in the hash and crack eggs into them.
Pop the skillet in a 400°F oven for a few minutes until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
Top with chopped scallions before serving.
This hearty meal prep dish keeps well in the fridge for several days.
5. Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
Cauliflower rice stir-fry is a tasty Whole30 meal option. You can start with frozen riced cauliflower for convenience, or use fresh if you prefer.
Add your favorite low-carb veggies like broccoli, green beans, and water chestnuts. Mix in some protein like chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
For flavor, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to stay Whole30 compliant.
Add ginger, garlic, and lime juice for extra taste. A dash of chili sauce gives it some heat.
Cook everything in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir often until the cauliflower rice softens and the veggies are crisp-tender.
6. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are a tasty Whole30-approved meal. They combine the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with tender chicken and colorful bell peppers.
To make them, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish.
Mix shredded cooked chicken with compliant mayo, hot sauce, and spices in a bowl. Stuff this mixture into the pepper halves.
Bake the stuffed peppers for about 20-25 minutes until they’re hot and slightly softened. The filling should be bubbly and golden on top.
These peppers are not only Whole30 friendly but also gluten-free and low-carb. You can prep them ahead for easy weeknight dinners.
7. Salmon with Avocado Salsa
This tasty dish combines grilled salmon with a fresh avocado salsa. You can cook the salmon on a grill or in a pan for about 5-6 minutes per side.
To make the salsa, mix diced avocado with minced bell pepper and cilantro or parsley. Add some lime juice for extra flavor.
Before cooking, rub the salmon with oil and season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This helps create a flavorful crust.
The creamy avocado salsa pairs perfectly with the rich salmon. It’s a quick and easy meal that fits well into your Whole30 plan.
8. Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
You’ll love these tasty Whole30 stuffed mushrooms. Start by cleaning portobello mushroom caps and removing the stems.
Cook ground turkey in a skillet with onions and garlic. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season the mixture with herbs like oregano and basil.
Spoon the turkey and spinach filling into the mushroom caps. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the stuffed mushrooms at 375°F for about 20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender. They make a great appetizer or light meal that fits perfectly into your Whole30 plan.
9. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This tasty stir-fry brings Chinese takeout flavors to your Whole30 meal plan. You’ll need beef, broccoli, and a few simple ingredients for the sauce.
Start by marinating thin slices of beef in coconut aminos and arrowroot powder. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the beef in batches until browned. Set it aside and stir-fry the broccoli until crisp-tender.
Make a sauce with coconut aminos, broth, lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Add it to the pan with the beef and broccoli.
Let everything simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve your beef and broccoli stir-fry hot for a satisfying Whole30 dinner.
10. Egg Roll in a Bowl
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick and tasty Whole30 meal. It gives you all the flavors of an egg roll without the wrapper.
To make it, cook ground meat in a skillet. Pork or turkey work well. Add shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions. These veggies are often sold as coleslaw mix.
Season with garlic, ginger, and coconut aminos. Coconut aminos replace soy sauce to keep it Whole30 compliant. Stir and cook until the veggies are soft.
You can top your bowl with green onions and sesame seeds. This dish is ready in about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a fast, filling meal.
11. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a tasty Whole30 option. You can make them by wrapping seasoned ground meat in cabbage leaves.
For a quick version, try “unstuffed” cabbage rolls in an Instant Pot. This deconstructed dish gives you the same flavors in less time.
To keep it Whole30, skip the rice and use extra veggies instead. Ground beef or pork work well as the protein.
Season your meat with garlic, paprika, and oregano. Add tomato sauce for moisture and flavor. Coconut aminos can give a hint of sweetness without sugar.
12. Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is a tasty Whole30 option. You can make it easily with just a few ingredients.
Start by roasting cubed butternut squash in the oven at 400°F. This brings out its natural sweetness.
While the squash cooks, sauté onions and garlic in a pot. Add the roasted squash, broth, and spices like cinnamon.
Simmer everything together, then blend until smooth. You can use an immersion blender or regular blender for this step.
For extra flavor, try adding apple chunks when roasting the squash. This gives the soup a subtle sweetness that complements the squash nicely.
13. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a tasty Whole30 meal you can make in about 30 minutes. Start by marinating peeled shrimp in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 15-20 minutes.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers. You can add pineapple chunks for extra flavor if you like.
Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.
For extra taste, brush the skewers with a mix of melted ghee, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro while grilling. This adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
14. Whole30 Chili
Whole30 chili is a hearty, comforting dish that fits perfectly into your 30-day reset. This filling meal is packed with protein and vegetables, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
You can make Whole30 chili on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or using an Instant Pot. Most recipes use ground beef, but you can also try versions with ground turkey or chicken for variety.
Common ingredients include diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika give the dish its signature flavor. Some recipes add sweet potatoes or pumpkin for extra nutrients and a touch of sweetness.
Remember to skip the beans to keep your chili Whole30 compliant.
Serve it topped with compliant garnishes like avocado slices or chopped cilantro for added texture and flavor.
15. Paleo Meatloaf
Paleo meatloaf is a tasty Whole30-compliant dish that’s easy to make. You’ll need ground beef, eggs, almond flour, and veggies like onions and carrots.
Mix these ingredients with spices like salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased pan.
Bake the meatloaf at 350°F for about an hour. For extra flavor, spread some Whole30-approved ketchup on top halfway through cooking.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking. Then slice and serve it with your favorite Whole30 sides for a satisfying meal.
16. Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore is a tasty Whole30 dish you can easily make at home. Start by browning chicken thighs or legs in a pan with olive oil.
Next, add bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and garlic to create a flavorful base. Pour in some chicken broth or water and let it simmer.
For extra flavor, toss in some olives, bay leaves, and fresh basil. Let everything cook together until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
This one-skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights. You can even make it in a slow cooker for hands-off cooking.
17. Cauliflower Pizza Crust
Cauliflower pizza crust is a tasty Whole30-compliant alternative to traditional pizza. To make it, you’ll need cauliflower rice, eggs, and seasonings.
Start by cooking the cauliflower rice and squeezing out excess moisture. Mix it with beaten eggs and your favorite herbs.
Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming a thin crust. Bake at 425°F until golden and crispy.
Add Whole30-approved toppings like tomato sauce, vegetables, and compliant meats. Return to the oven until everything is hot and bubbly.
This low-carb option lets you enjoy pizza night while sticking to your Whole30 plan.
18. Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon is a tasty Whole30-compliant dish. To make it, preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut Brussels sprouts in half and spread them on a baking sheet.
Sprinkle chopped bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts. Roast for about 15 minutes, then stir and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
For extra flavor, you can drizzle balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts before roasting. This adds a tangy taste that goes well with the smoky bacon.
This simple recipe is perfect for a quick and easy side dish. It’s packed with nutrients and fits nicely into your Whole30 meal plan.
19. Balsamic Chicken with Asparagus
This tasty dish combines tender chicken with crisp asparagus in a flavorful balsamic sauce. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make.
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown on both sides.
Remove the chicken and add asparagus to the pan. Cook for a few minutes until it starts to soften.
Pour in balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey for sweetness.
Return the chicken to the pan and let everything simmer together. The sauce will thicken and coat the chicken and asparagus beautifully.
This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and healthy. It’s Whole30 compliant and packed with protein and veggies.
20. Whole30 Shepherd’s Pie
Whole30 Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish that fits perfectly into your clean eating plan. This hearty meal swaps traditional mashed potatoes for a cauliflower topping.
Start by browning ground lamb or beef with onions, carrots, and celery. Add garlic, herbs, and compliant broth for flavor.
For the topping, steam cauliflower until soft, then mash it with ghee and coconut milk.
Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish and top with the cauliflower mash.
Bake the pie until the top is golden and crispy. This filling meal provides protein, vegetables, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied on your Whole30 journey.
Benefits of Whole30 Recipes
Whole30 recipes offer many advantages for your health and eating habits. They can improve your nutrition and help you form better food choices.
Nutritional Advantages
Whole30 recipes focus on whole, unprocessed foods. This means you get more vitamins, minerals, and fiber in your meals.
These recipes often use lots of vegetables. Eating more veggies boosts your intake of important nutrients.
Whole30 meals are free from added sugars and artificial ingredients. This can help reduce inflammation in your body.
Protein is a key part of Whole30 recipes. Eating enough protein keeps you full and supports muscle health.
Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits
Whole30 recipes teach you to cook with simple, fresh ingredients. This skill can help you eat better long-term.
You’ll learn to read food labels more carefully. This helps you make smarter choices at the grocery store.
These recipes often use herbs and spices for flavor. This can train your taste buds to enjoy foods without added sugar or salt.
Meal planning is easier with Whole30 recipes. You’ll get used to preparing meals ahead of time, which can save you money and reduce stress.
How to Transition to Whole30
Starting Whole30 can feel overwhelming at first. With some planning and prep work, you can set yourself up for success.
Preparing Your Kitchen
Focus on cleaning out your kitchen and learning to read food labels carefully.
Clean out your pantry and fridge. Get rid of foods not allowed on Whole30, like grains, dairy, and sugar.
Stock up on fresh fruits, veggies, and approved proteins. Buy healthy fats like olive oil and coconut oil.
Fill your spice rack with salt-free seasonings to add flavor.
Make space for meal prep containers. Get a food scale to measure portions.
Buy a spiralizer for veggie noodles. Invest in good knives for chopping produce.
Batch cook basics like hard-boiled eggs and roasted veggies. Freeze extra portions for busy days. Keep approved snacks on hand like nuts and fruit.
Understanding Ingredient Labels
Read every label carefully. Many foods have hidden sugar or additives.
Look for added sugars like honey, agave, or corn syrup. Watch for dairy like whey or casein. Avoid grains and legumes in any form.
Check for sneaky ingredients like carrageenan, MSG, or sulfites. When in doubt, skip it.
Stick to whole, unprocessed foods as much as you can. Shop the store perimeter for fresh items.
Learn Whole30 approved brands. Make a list of go-to products.
Don’t assume something is compliant just because it’s labeled “natural” or “organic.” Always double-check the full ingredients list.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Starting a Whole30 diet can be tricky. You might face some hurdles along the way.
But don’t worry! There are ways to overcome them.
Meal prep can feel overwhelming at first. Try planning your meals for the week ahead.
Make a shopping list and stick to it. Cook big batches of food on weekends to save time during busy weekdays.
Dining out can be hard on Whole30. Before going to a restaurant, check the menu online.
Look for simple dishes like grilled meats and veggies. Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications.
Cravings are common, especially for sugar and carbs. Keep approved snacks on hand like nuts, fruits, or veggie sticks.
Drink plenty of water to help curb hunger.
Social events can be challenging. Bring a Whole30-compliant dish to share. Or eat before you go.
Remember, it’s okay to politely decline food that doesn’t fit your plan.
Staying motivated can be tough. Keep your goals in mind.
Join online Whole30 communities for support and tips. Celebrate small victories along the way.