5 Primal Summer Potluck Dishes
These 5 Primal Summer Potluck Dishes are Perfect for Bringing Healthier Options to Your Next Gathering or Party!
Summer is the perfect time to gather with friends and family for potlucks, picnics, and backyard barbecues. However, many traditional potluck dishes are loaded with unhealthy ingredients like preservatives, cane sugar, corn syrup, food dyes, and other non-natural additives.
If you're following a primal lifestyle, it can be challenging to find dishes that fit your dietary needs. But fear not! I've got you covered with these primal potluck ideas that are not only delicious but also use healthy ingredients.
Make These 5 Delicious Dishes
Baked Chicken Wings
Who doesn't love chicken wings? They're a classic party food that everyone enjoys. However, most store-bought or restaurant wings are deep-fried in industrial oils and coated in unhealthy breading and sauces. Baked chicken wings are a healthier alternative that don't sacrifice flavor.
To make them, start by marinating them in a mixture of refined olive oil or melted tallow, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. Then, bake them in the oven at 190°C (375 F) until they're crispy and golden brown.
These baked chicken wings are not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats. They're perfect for any summer gathering!
Gelatin Mold
Gelatin molds may seem old-fashioned, but they've definitely made a comeback in the primal community! Gelatin is derived from collagen-rich animal bones and is known for its numerous health benefits.
To make a gelatin mold, start by dissolving granulated grass-fed gelatin in water or fruit juice.* Then, add your favorite fruits or vegetables to the mixture. You can get creative and use different combinations like berries, citrus fruits, or even cucumber and mint.
Pour the mixture into a glass food storage container then chill in the fridge until set. You'll have a refreshing and nutritious dish that's perfect for a summer potluck! Gelatin is great for your skin, hair, nails, and joints. It also supports gut health and digestion.
*NOTE: A good ratio is typically 1 tablespoon of plain gelatin to 480ml (2 cups) of liquid. If you want to add fruit to your gelatin mold, you can use a ratio of 240ml (1 cup) of fruit per 480ml (2 cups) of liquid.
Cocktail Meatballs
Meatballs are always a hit at potlucks, but most recipes call for breadcrumbs or other grains as fillers. A primal version could use alternatives like almond flour, cassava flour, or coconut flour instead.
To make primal cocktail meatballs, combine 450g (1 lb) ground beef or pork with 1 whisked egg, 30g (1/4 cup) flour alternative of choice, and garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and bake them in the oven at 190°C (375 F) until they're cooked through.
Serve them in a sauce made of 240ml (1 cup) tomato sauce, 3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar, 2 Tbsp maple syrup, and sea salt to taste.
These cocktail meatballs are not only delicious but also high in protein and healthy fats. They're a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Zucchini Slaw
Traditional coleslaw is made with cabbage, which can be hard to digest for some people. Zucchini slaw is a refreshing alternative that's easier on the stomach and gut.
To make this slaw, start by grating zucchini into thin strips. Then, mix it with shredded carrots, diced red onion, chopped parsley, and a dressing made from homemade mayo, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and pepper.
This zucchini slaw is not only crunchy and flavorful but also packed with vitamins and minerals. It's a great side dish for any summer gathering.
No-Bake Carrot Cake Bars
No potluck is complete without dessert, and no-bake carrot cake bars are the perfect sweet treat! They're made with wholesome ingredients and are free from gluten, cane sugar, and artificial additives.
To make these bars, start by pulsing 200g (2 cups) shredded carrots, 150g (1 cup) soaked pitted dates, 100g (1 cup) almond flour, 30g (1/4 cup) coconut flour, 20g (1/4 cup) shredded coconut, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, and 40g (¼ cup) raisins in a food processor until it resembles a chunky dough. Press the mixture into a baking dish then cover and refrigerate until firm. Slice into bars.
These no-bake carrot cake bars are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They're a healthier alternative to traditional carrot cake that everyone will love.
3 Benefits of Making Your Potluck Dishes Primal
By choosing homemade primal lifestyle-friendly potluck dishes over conventional recipes, you'll enjoy several health benefits:
Avoids Unhealthy Ingredients
Conventional potluck recipes often contain preservatives, cane sugar, corn syrup, food dyes, and other non-natural additives. These ingredients have been linked to various health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
By opting for homemade dishes made with healthy ingredients, you'll avoid these harmful substances and support your overall well-being.
Supports Digestive Health
Many conventional potluck recipes contain ingredients that can be pro-inflammatory. For example, mayo made with canola oil or sauces with corn syrup or GMO beet or cane sugar added can cause inflammation.
By choosing homemade dishes made with natural ingredients like olive oil or coconut oil and sweetened with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, you'll support your digestive health and avoid any potential digestive issues.
Promotes an Ancestral Lifestyle
Following a primal lifestyle means prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods and avoiding grains, legumes, and refined sugars. By bringing homemade primal potluck dishes to your next gathering, you'll not only stay true to your dietary choices but also inspire others to make healthier choices.
You'll show them that healthy eating can be delicious and enjoyable!
Enjoy these 5 Primal Summer Potluck Dishes this Season!
In conclusion, these 5 primal summer potluck dishes are not only easy to make but also use healthy ingredients that are in line with a Paleo or primal lifestyle. By choosing homemade dishes over conventional recipes, you'll avoid unhealthy ingredients and support your overall health.
So, the next time you're invited to a potluck or barbecue, treat your friends and family to ancestral wellness with these anti-inflammatory and nutritious dishes!
*Not medical advice.
Sources
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4101898/
https://www.julienutrition.com/hard-digest-foods-ready-surprises/