Finding the right appetizers can be a challenge when following a Paleo diet. But don't worry, there are plenty of delicious and healthy options to choose from that will impress your guests and keep you on track with your dietary goals. This article provides a variety of paleo-friendly appetizer recipes, from dips and finger foods to more substantial bites, perfect for any gathering or game day celebration.
Dips and Spreads
Paleo 7 Layer Dip
This Paleo 7 Layer Dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a colorful and flavorful appetizer that's easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups guacamole (either pre-made or homemade)
- 1. 5 cups salsa (pre-made or Pico de Gallo)
- 1 lb grilled chicken (diced), or carnitas or ground beef
- 2 cups lettuce (shredded)
- 1 4-oz can black olives (sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced)
- 1/4 small white onion (minced)
- Fresh cilantro (minced)
Instructions:
- Layer the ingredients in an 8x8 glass dish in the order listed above.
- Serve with plantain chips, tortilla chips (if you eat corn), or crudités.
Tips:
- Feel free to add other toppings like bell peppers, mango, pineapple, or jalapeños.
- For plantain chips, slice green plantains on an angle and fry them in coconut oil until golden brown and crisp.
Guacamole with Preserved Lemons
For a unique twist on a classic, try Guacamole with Preserved Lemons. This AIP and nightshade-free recipe adds a burst of flavor to your appetizer spread.
Traditional Hummus
While not strictly Paleo due to the inclusion of legumes, a traditional hummus can be a crowd-pleasing option for those who are more lenient with their diet. It’s comforting, creamy, flavorful, filling, and satisfying. Serve with crudités or gluten-free crackers.
Dairy-Free Pesto
This dairy-free pesto is a versatile dip that can be served with raw or roasted veggies, shrimp, or caprese skewers.
Read also: Guilt-Free Keto Recipes
Baba Ganoush
Baba ganoush is a simple and delicious dip that's sure to impress your guests. Serve it with gluten-free crackers and a variety of crudités.
Finger Foods
Loaded AIP Nachos
These loaded AIP nachos are a dream come true for those following an AIP diet. Made with AIP taco meat, paleo nacho chips, a dairy-free nacho cheese sauce, nightshade-free guacamole and salsa, they will knock your socks off!
AIP Chicken Nuggets
These AIP Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside thanks to delicious panko pork rinds and soft and juicy on the inside. They take no time to make and there are both a stovetop and airfryer option. They're AIP, paleo and Whole30!
Peach Ginger Chicken Wings
These Peach Ginger Chicken Wings are quick, easy, and flavorful. Frozen peaches work well in this recipe too!
AIP Beef Meatballs
These AIP Beef Meatballs are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, making them a great addition to your appetizer spread.
Read also: Crockpot Appetizer Recipes
Paleo and AIP Cod Fritters with Tamarind Sauce
Looking for a crunchy, savory, and healthy bite-sized snack? These paleo and AIP cod fritters with tamarind sauce are a delicious and filling appetizer perfect for game day!
Guacamole Stuffed Mini Peppers
These stuffed mini peppers are vegan, gluten-free, keto, and Paleo! They are also perfect for including little ones in the holiday food prep. To prep these ahead, dice the onion and wash and chop the peppers the day before. You can also squeeze the lime juice ahead of time if you like, but save making the actual guac for the day of so it retains that beautiful vibrant green color.
Plantain Chips
These chips are super quick to whip up and hold up well to dipping. Simply slice them on an angle and fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side in a half inch of coconut oil (about 5-6 tablespoons) in a 10 inch cast iron skillet.
Banana Fries
These are made using unripened green bananas so they have absolutely no sweet taste as long as they're totally green. They're crispy and delicious and can be made in either the oven or air fryer.
More Substantial Bites
AIP Stuffed Sweet Potato Cakes
These paleo and AIP Stuffed Sweet potato cakes are a blog favorite, offering a more substantial and satisfying appetizer option.
Read also: Vegan Appetizer Ideas
Veggie-Packed Turkey Burgers on Butternut Squash Biscuits
These veggie-packed turkey burgers on Butternut Squash Biscuits offer a flavorful and filling appetizer that's perfect for a crowd.
Cajun Shrimp
While originally shared as a main dish, this shrimp recipe is the perfect addition to an appetizer spread! Each bite packs in a ton of bold flavor and shrimp are such an easy protein to serve in individual portions. Simply cook the shrimp in the cajun spice mix and serve on a platter with toothpicks.
Meatballs
Meatballs are another great protein-packed recipe. Even if you're hosting a holiday get together next month, you could totally make this paleo appetizer today and freeze them.
Grazing Boards
AIP Compliant Grazing Board
Put together a grazing board with AIP compliant charcuterie, crudites and dips of your choice.
Sweet Treats
AIP Donuts
These AIP donuts are delicious and fluffy, yeast-free and also vegan. An optional lemon coconut glaze tops these off for the cutest treats!
Milkshake
This milkshake is thick creamy, dairy free and has no added sugar. It's AIP, paleo, vegan and delicious.
Tips for Paleo Appetizer Success
- Focus on what you can have: When looking for gluten-free and paleo appetizers, focus on the foods you can have, rather than those you can't.
- Prep ahead: If you're hosting, make sure to prep your gluten-free & paleo appetizer spread ahead of time! Many of these recipes can be made in advance, saving you time and stress on the day of your event.
- Get creative with flavors: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices, herbs, and toppings to create unique and flavorful appetizers.
- Consider dietary restrictions: If you have guests with other dietary restrictions, such as AIP or vegan, be sure to offer options that cater to their needs as well.
tags: #paleo #diet #appetizers #recipes