Paleo Vegetables, Herb Recipes, and Gardening

Summary

As summer approaches, it's the perfect time to dive into the world of Paleo vegetables and herbs. This guide offers free Paleo vegetable and herb recipes, along with tips on how to grow your favorite plants in your yard or on your patio. From nutrient-rich arugula to versatile cauliflower, discover how to incorporate these healthy ingredients into your diet. Plus, enjoy four exclusive Paleo recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare.

Growing Paleo Vegetables and Herbs

Arugula: The Mediterranean Marvel

Arugula, a leafy green herb, is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Known for its peppery flavor, arugula is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as essential minerals like copper and iron. This herb thrives in well-drained soil and sunny locations, making it an excellent choice for backyard gardens and patio pots.

Carrots: The Root of Health

Carrots are a versatile root vegetable packed with vitamin A and B complex vitamins. They can be grown in various soil types and are perfect for both garden beds and containers. Carrots are not only nutritious but also add a vibrant color to your meals.

Cauliflower: The Colorful Cruciferous

Cauliflower comes in a range of colors, including white, yellow, and purple. This vegetable is low in cholesterol and high in vitamins B and C. It can be grown in garden beds or as a decorative patio plant. Cauliflower is also a popular rice substitute in Paleo diets, offering a low-carb alternative to traditional grains.

Tomatoes: The Juicy Delight

Tomatoes, often mistaken for vegetables, are actually fruits. They are high in fiber and rich in vitamins A and C. Large tomato varieties can be grown in garden beds, while smaller cherry tomatoes thrive in pots on patios. Tomatoes are a versatile ingredient in many Paleo recipes.

Thyme: The Ancient Healer

Thyme has been used since ancient Egyptian times for its medicinal properties. This perennial herb grows best in hot, sunny locations with well-drained soil. Thyme can be used fresh or dried and offers antibacterial benefits. It's a must-have herb for any Paleo kitchen.

Paleo Diet and Cauliflower

In the Paleo diet, rice is not allowed. Cauliflower serves as an excellent substitute due to its similar texture and versatility. Whether eaten raw or cooked, cauliflower can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a staple in Paleo cuisine.

Arugula Salad – A Refreshing Paleo Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups fresh arugula
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 3/4 cup fresh blackberries or cranberries
• 1/4 cup dried raisins
• 1 1/2 cups walnuts, soaked
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp nutmeg

Preparation:

1. Wash arugula, strawberries, and blackberries/cranberries and set aside to dry.
2. Cut strawberries into quarters or halves.
3. Slice walnuts in halves.
4. Mix arugula, strawberries, blackberries/cranberries, raisins, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Top salad with balsamic dressing of choice.
6. For the dressing, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a small bowl.

Serves 4.

Cauliflower: A Versatile Paleo Substitute

Boiling Preparation:

1. Keep refrigerated and unwashed until ready to cook.
2. Remove outer leaves.
3. Make a deep X in the core of the cauliflower.
4. Place the whole cauliflower stem-first into 3 1/2 quarts of salted boiling water.
5. Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes and remove.
6. Let cool, then cut into rice-like consistency.

Serve as a rice substitute.

TGI CopyCat Recipe: Roasted Carrots and Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 1 pound baby carrots
• 8 ounces mushrooms
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 Tbsp kosher salt
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh garlic
• 2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp ground black pepper

Preparation:

1. Mix olive oil, kosher salt, garlic, rosemary, and black pepper in a bowl.
2. Divide the mixture into two parts. Toss carrots in one part and mushrooms in the other.
3. Place carrots and mushrooms separately on cookie sheets.
4. Roast in a preheated oven at 500ºF until soft (carrots will take longer).

Provided by: America's Secret Recipe

Interesting Stats

• According to the USDA, one cup of raw arugula contains only 5 calories, making it an excellent low-calorie addition to any diet USDA.
• Carrots are one of the richest sources of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. A single medium carrot provides over 200% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A NIH.
• Cauliflower is gaining popularity as a low-carb substitute. In 2020, the global cauliflower market was valued at approximately $12.3 billion and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2021 to 2028 Grand View Research.

By incorporating these nutrient-rich vegetables and herbs into your diet, you can enjoy delicious Paleo meals while reaping numerous health benefits. Happy gardening and cooking!