Over the years, we’ve changed a lot about our diets, in part due to wanting to pursue healthier living and in part because of Julia’s medical diagnoses. Overall, we’ve cut out nearly all grain, dairy, and processed sugar from our shopping lists, and you know what? The recipes I make still taste great and just plain make us feel good. I think that’s the goal we’re all striving for in cooking meals at home. When we’ve tried to reset for the year, we’ve turned to the Whole30 program in the past. Much of it aligns with our restrictions, so it’s a great jumping-off base!
Whether you’ve committed to a 30-day strict plan or just want to mix in a healthier meal, here are some grain-free, dairy-free, sugar-free Chris Cooks recipes from over the years that will nourish you this season. (Note: Some require omitting an ingredient to ensure they’re Whole30-compliant!)
Recipes That are Whole30-Friendly
Soups & Chilis
- Ham & Leek Soup – You can enjoy this hearty soup on its own, but it’s elevated enough for guests, too.
- Thai Tomato Basil Soup – This version is dairy-free and can be made in under 30 minutes.
- Beef Stew – A hearty, budget-friendly, thick soup that’s way more flavorful than most.
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup – My dairy-free take on the creamy classic, using coconut milk.
- Turkey Sausage & Potato Soup – A light but filling broth-based soup that is naturally grain-free.
- Clam Chowder (Grain, Gluten & Dairy-Free) – Uses potatoes as a thickener to keep it compliant.
- Borscht with Braised Beef Short Ribs – An earthy, nutrient-dense soup featuring beets and tender beef.
- Singapore Noodles (Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup) – Just so good. Skip the sweet chili sauce to cut out the sugar.
Salads & Bowls
- Salmon Taco Bowls – Swap the rice for cauliflower rice and top with my easy fresh guacamole.
- Poké Bowls – Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, swap the chili garlic sauce for a sugar-free hot sauce, and serve over greens or cucumber noodles.
- Paleo Fried Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Technically a “wrap,” but often served as a fresh salad-style meal.
Main Dishes
- Baked Coconut Curry Chicken Wings – Specifically created for Whole30, this tasty recipe features coconut milk, red curry paste, and lime.
- Basil Beef Pot Roast – A slow-cooked classic that relies on fresh herbs and root vegetables.
- Moroccan Chicken & Rice (Sub Cauliflower Rice) – A flavorful chicken dish that is compliant if served over riced cauliflower.
- Chicharron De Ribeye Tacos – High-fat and high-flavor! Use grain-free shells or lettuce wraps to keep it lighter.
- EPIC Twice-Baked Potatoes – Made with compliant fats like duck fat or ghee.
- One-Pan Roasted Chicken & Vegetables – A simple, “no-fuss” traybake that’s on heavy rotation in our house.
- Italian Sausage & Veggie Skillet – A quick weeknight meal with Italian sausage (check for no sugar/nitrates), bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
- Braised Chicken with Golden Beets – This is a “dump-and-go” Dutch oven meal. It uses chicken legs, coconut milk, and golden beets. The warm spices (cardamom, star anise, cinnamon) make it feel gourmet, but it’s completely compliant.
- Even Easier Salt & Vinegar Chicken – A fan favorite that uses only 3 ingredients: chicken thighs, white vinegar, and kosher salt. It’s essentially a “flash brine” that results in incredibly flavorful, juicy grilled chicken.
Cooking Tip: Grab my Overachiever Seasoning Blend, which is Whole30-compliant and a staple in our kitchen. It’s a flavor enhancer that puts regular ol’ salt & pepper out to pasture.
Overachiever Seasoning
I add my signature spice blend to almost every savory dish I create – and it’s Whole30 Approved!
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