Here we go! It’s time to roll into New Year’s resolutions. Some say it’s not healthy to indulge and deprive, but sorry, I’m a human being. Really, it’s all about perspective. In January, I plan to add things to my diet. More whole foods, more vegetables, more healthy fats that fill me up and keep me satisfied. It feels good to reign it in, and I’m so ready. I’m doing Whole 30 for the month of January. There is so much delicious food you can cook for breakfast, lunch and dinner during Whole 30, I promise you won’t miss the dairy, sugar, pasta and grains (among other things). Yes, you can’t drink alcohol, but what you give up in a glass of wine, you gain in healing deep sleep and increased energy. And it’s only 30 days, you can do it! Stay tuned for Whole30 shopping lists, easy breakfast and lunch ideas and inspiration. To print a complete shopping list for this week’s Whole30 meal plan (Tuesday-Saturday night’s dinners), click here and print the attached list.
SUNDAY
It’s New Year’s Eve! A cheese and chocolate fondue party is calling your name. If you’re planning a more traditional sit-down dinner tonight, check out my Christmas Dinner Menu.
MONDAY
New Year’s Day! Welcome 2018, let’s make it a good one. In Texas, it’s ham and black eyed peas all the way. For the ham, try this slow cooker apricot and dijon glazed ham. I made while we were skiing with family and it was a big hit. Serve with sandwich rolls and all the fixings (Swiss cheese, cornichon and grainy mustard). If you’re feeding a crowd today, you could also make mac-n-cheese and a big healthy salad, like shaved Brussels sprout salad or kale salad. I start Whole 30 on the 2nd, but I still plan to have a healthy eating day so my system doesn’t go into complete shock tomorrow. Which, after the couple weeks I’ve had, is somewhat inevitable. My kids will be back in school tomorrow and it will be a good day to hit the store and stock up for Whole30. I’ll be posting a shopping list of essentials to get you started.
TUESDAY
Whole30 to the rescue! Here’s a quick rundown on what you can and can’t have on the program. It will be a jammed day trying to catch up on life and work, so I want something for dinner that’s easy and low effort. I’ve been craving this white chicken chili, and it’s time to fire it up. Top with cilantro, avocado, chopped fresh jalapeños and sliced radish.
WEDNESDAY
Asian lettuce cups with ground pork and all the fixings. I have directions in the recipe for how to make this Whole30 compliant (just use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and omit the hoisin and sesame oil). A little sesame oil is fine on Whole30, as long as it’s not heated.
THURSDAY
Spatchcocked chicken with rainbow carrots, garlic and fennel. Lemon and olive oil add flavor, and a single sheetpan makes for easy clean up. Add a few diced red potatoes and chopped fresh rosemary for a one-pan meal.
FRIDAY
Sheetpan sausages with tri colored peppers and onions. I like to buy Teton Waters Ranch grassfed beef sausages, which are Whole30 compliant. You can find them at Costco (order through Instacart if you don’t want to head to the store — and use the code Smartinthekitchen for $10 off your first order). Serve with mustard (just check the ingredients to make sure it doesn’t contain sugar). Serve with a big side salad with super simple salad dressing. I’ve been trading out the champagne vinegar with apple cider vinegar recently and it’s delicious.
SATURDAY
Steak frites. You deserve a good dinner after completing your first few days of Whole30. To make this recipe Whole30 compliant, use avocado oil instead of canola oil and ghee instead of butter. If you have a cast iron pan, get it nice and hot before searing the steaks. Serve with a peppery watercress or arugula salad.
Leave a Reply