Yummy AIP Recipes for the Holidays

by | Nov 6, 2023 | Journal

Celebrating the Holidays with Autoimmune Paleo: Nourishing Recipes for Thanksgiving and Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, it’s natural to look forward to hearty, comforting meals shared with loved ones. However, for those adhering to an Autoimmune Paleo (AIP) diet, navigating traditional holiday fare can pose a challenge. Fear not! With a bit of creativity and thoughtful planning, you can enjoy a delicious spread while staying true to your health goals. In this blog, we’ll explore some delectable AIP-compliant recipes for your Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts, ensuring that you savor every moment of the holiday season without compromising your well-being.

Main Dish: Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Turkey Ingredients:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-15 pounds)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (omit for AIP)
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 1 onion, quartered

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Rinse the turkey thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and sea salt.
  4. Rub the turkey inside and out with the olive oil mixture.
  5. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices and quartered onion.
  6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 3 to 3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Side Dish 1: Mashed Sweet Potatoes Ingredients:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (omit for AIP)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Boil the sweet potatoes in a pot of water until tender.
  2. Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them back to the pot.
  3. Add the coconut milk, coconut oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and well combined.
  5. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Side Dish 2: Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste (omit pepper for AIP)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Dessert: Apple Cinnamon Crumble Ingredients:

  • 4 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup cassava flour
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice and place them in a baking dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the cassava flour, coconut oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until crumbly.
  4. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.

Conclusion: With these delightful Autoimmune Paleo recipes, you can savor the flavors of the holiday season while prioritizing your well-being. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or Christmas, these dishes are sure to please both your palate and your commitment to a nourishing lifestyle. Embrace the festivities with gratitude and joy, knowing that you can indulge in a wholesome, AIP-friendly feast with your loved ones. Happy holidays!