Planning or attending social events has been a bit of a challenge for me since I started Paleo…let me re-phrase, it’s been a bit of an adjustment. Usually one just eats whatever is provided at a party; foods that smell good or look pretty. One usually doesn’t really think of the ingredients that were used or how the foods have been prepared.
Not me. I need to know exactly what went into a dish, to determine whether or not I can consume it. I don’t mean to be picky or be a pain in the behind, but it’s just the way it is now. I will not compromise my healthy eating habits and my digestive system.
While at a gathering, I still try to eat the stuff that looks raw or 100% natural like veggies, fruits, nuts or grilled proteins…but that’s really about it. What has worked for me is packing a little lunch and taking it with me to parties. I will usually let the host know ahead of time I have this special diet, so they don’t worry about me and don’t mind me when I take out my little packed goodies. People understand most of the time.
To some this may seem an extreme inconvenience, but it’s all about creating healthy habits! I have become efficient at packing foods and portioning out my meals. To me this process is a breeze, and to be honest, I would much rather avoid feeling bloated than comply to party foods. It’s all about choices, and that has been my choice. I prefer healthy, wholesome, natural and Paleo-like foods. It’s how I roll now a days.
When I plan dinner parties at my house, I try to keep all the appetizers and food choices as healthy and as tasty as possible. I buy flavorful and organic ingredients that compliment each other, and usually come up with fun paleo recipes that are not too “weird” for people. I would hate to force my Paleo eating habits on others, so I create things that are commonly enjoyed at parties to serve…only I make them a bit healthier; things such as guacamole (with sweet potato chips or other veggie chips), sweet potato fries, grilled meats and salads…making them healthy and Paleo-friendly. Guests usually don’t even notice they are eating healthier!
Let me give you an example. A few nights ago I wanted to feed my husband a common American dish, which is not usually Paleo (because of its ingredients). I wanted him to have an Egg Salad with bread; don’t’ ask why, but it just sounded like THE thing to have at the moment. Check out how I assembled it:
Get the full recipe here!
Great stuff
Looks so yummy, want to try recipe immediately. Is there another option for the coconut milk, I have a super clean diet that I am following can’t really have full fat coconut milk. I also have a question about other recipes that I see, like muffins, where you use raw honey, how can I translate the measurements to use stevia? thanks.
This sounds really yummy. We’re wan to try the Paleo diet soon to try to work out some health issues. Is there a reason you couldn’t use homemade mayonnaise? My recipe is made of of spices, eggs, vinegar, lemon juice, coconut oil and olive oil.
Hi Allyson! The Paleo lifestyle is great…you should give it a go!
Usually, mayonnaise recipes (store bought or homemade) contain canola oil, which is not Paleo. This is one of the reasons why I choose to make my own, making sure it’s 100% Paleo approved.