Espresso “Cheesecake” (Dairy Free, Plant-Based, Paleo)

Espresso “Cheesecake” (Dairy Free, Plant-Based, Paleo)

by | Jan 28, 2026

If you love a creamy dessert but prefer to skip the dairy, this Espresso “Cheesecake” is a dream. Made with a cashew base and naturally plant-based and paleo, it’s a recipe I’ve made countless times for friends and family. It’s quick to prepare, freezer-friendly and endlessly adaptable.

There’s something comforting about returning to a kitchen ritual you’ve missed. It’s been a while since I’ve shared a recipe here, but this one felt like the perfect way to ease back in: a long-time favourite in my home and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, my Espresso “Cheesecake.”

I say “cheesecake” loosely because there’s actually no dairy involved. The base is made from soaked cashews, which blend into the creamiest, silkiest filling, a dream for anyone who’s dairy-sensitive or simply prefers plant-based desserts. It also happens to be paleo-friendly, which makes it one of those rare treats that checks a lot of boxes without feeling like a compromise.

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count for friends, family, and any gathering where I need something reliable and universally loved. No one ever misses the cream cheese, and most people don’t even realize it’s not the real thing until I tell them.

It’s super simple to make too. You can pour the filling into silicone muffin cups for perfect little individual portions, or go classic with a springform pan. And if you don’t finish it all in one sitting, which is entirely possible but not guaranteed, it freezes beautifully.

If you’ve been looking for a dessert that feels indulgent but still aligns with a plant-based or paleo way of eating, this one might become a staple in your kitchen the way it has in mine.

Espresso Cheesecake Dairy Free, Plant-Based, Paleo

Tips, Variations, and Little Secrets for this Espresso “Cheesecake” …

  • If you’re not a fan of coffee, you can easily change the flavour. Leave out the coffee and add a tablespoon of matcha for a vibrant matcha cheesecake, stir in one to two tablespoons of cocoa for a chocolate version, or brighten it up with a teaspoon of lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy twist.
  • If you want a crustless cheesecake, simply skip the crust. I’ve done this many times out of pure laziness and it still turns out great.
  • When removing the cheesecake from silicone muffin liners or a springform pan, make sure it’s frozen or partially frozen. The filling is very soft when fully thawed, and unmolding it when fully thawed can ruin the shape.
  • This dessert is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it days in advance and store it in the freezer. Move it to the fridge a few hours before serving to let it thaw. A full cake will take longer to soften than individual portions.
  • Feel free to decorate your cheesecake any way you like. For this espresso version, I love sifting cocoa powder over the top or adding chocolate shavings. Simple and so pretty.

Espresso Cheesecake

What you need for Espresso “Cheesecake”:

  • Dates
  • Walnuts and/or pecans
  • Cashews
  • Espresso
  • Coconut oil
  • Coconut milk
  • Maple syrup

Looking for more healthy dessert recipes? You’re going to love these …

Espresso “Cheesecake”

If you love a creamy dessert but prefer to skip the dairy, this Espresso “Cheesecake” is a dream. Made with a cashew base and naturally plant-based and paleo, it’s a recipe I’ve made countless times for friends and family. It’s quick to prepare, freezer-friendly and endlessly adaptable.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Freeze Time: 4 hours
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Dairy Free, Paleo, Plant-Based
Servings: 10

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Silicone muffin liners

Ingredients
 

CRUST

  • 1 cup dates, pitted
  • 1 cup raw walnuts or pecans

FILLING

  • 1.5 cups raw cashews, soaked and rinsed*
  • 1/4 cup brewed espresso
  • 1/3 cup raw coconut oil, melted
  • 2/3 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup

TOPPING

  • Cocoa powder or shaved dark chocolate

Instructions
 

  • Add walnuts and/or pecans and a pinch of sea salt to food processor and process until nuts are chopped into small pieces.
  • Add dates in and continue to process until ingredients start to stick together. If mixture is too dry, add a couple more dates at a time until mixture becomes sticky when you press it together. If it's too wet, add more nuts.
  • Place silicone muffin liners into muffin tray or on a flat tray.
  • Scoop in 1 tbsp of crust into each muffin slot and press with down with fingers or spoon.
  • Add all filling ingredients to a high-powered blender and mix until filling is smooth. Taste and adjust if needed.
  • Divide filling evenly among the muffin liners. Tap a few times to release any air bubbles, then cover with plastic wrap and freeze until hard – roughly 4-6 hours.
  • Once set, peel silicone liners down to remove cheesecake. They should pop right out. Let them thaw out in a container on the counter or in the fridge before serving. Store leftovers in the freezer. 

Notes

* Soak the cashews in water in the fridge for 5 to 8 hours, or cover them with boiled water and let them sit for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly before using.
 
Keyword dairy free, gluten free, grain free, healthy dessert, paleo diet, vegan
2-Ingredient Natural DIY Moisturizer

2-Ingredient Natural DIY Moisturizer

by | Sep 1, 2021

This 2-ingredient DIY Moisturizer is super easy to make and will leave your skin looking and feeling hydrated & youthful! All you need is coconut oil, aloe vera gel and an optional essential oil for natural fragrance. Whip up this skin lovin’ and anti-aging moisturizer in less than 5-minutes!

When it comes to living a healthy and natural lifestyle, what you put on your body is just as important as what you put in your body. Your skin is the largest organ of your body and since it is porous, it absorbs whatever you put on it.

That’s why it’s crucial to pay close attention to the ingredients in your skin care products. If the products you use contain harmful ingredients such as harsh, toxic chemicals, colors, and fragrances, those ingredients make their way into your body, your blood and lymphatic system!

Ingredients that you should do your very best to avoid are …

  • parabens
  • synthetic colors
  • fragrance
  • phthalates
  • triclosan
  • sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) / sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
  • formaldehyde
  • toluene
  • propylene glycol
  • sunscreen chemicals, etc.

The majority of conventional body care products contain a cocktail of these carcinogenic chemicals, allergens, and irritants.

That’s why I decided to create my own moisturizer from simple and natural ingredients. Not only is it super easy and affordable, but it’s a great feeling to moisturize your skin with a squeaky clean product that YOU created!

So, if you’re transitioning away from conventional skin care products and/or looking for an awesome and inexpensive DIY moisturizer, I highly recommend this one!

Benefits of using coconut oil for the skin include:

  • moisturizes dry skin, including skin conditions such as eczema
  • reduces inflammation, which may result from UVB rays
  • promotes wound healing
  • antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties

Benefits of using aloe vera for the skin include:

  • supports the production and release of collagen
  • antioxidant effect that can help repair sun damage and slow down the aging process of the skin
  • more supple skin, rather than stiff and leathery, due to its 98% water content, which helps moisturize and hydrate the skin
  • protects the skin from the damaging effects of radiation therapy
  • reduces wound healing time and limits scarring
  • effective in treating fungal and bacterial infections
  • cooling effect on rashes or sunburns

DIY Natural Moisturizer

How to use DIY Moisturizer

1. As a daily body moisturizer.

Hydrated skin is happy, healthy skin, and as we know, sufficient moisture also helps prevent and reduce visible signs of aging.  Apply this hydrating moisturizer to your entire body after showering for skin that feels nourished and glows!

2. As a sunburn soother.

Aloe and coconut oil contain anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the skin-healing process. In addition, they’re full of antioxidants, which have a protective effect on skin that’s been exposed to and damaged by UV rays. This moisturizer is also incredibly hydrating, which could help combat the skin peeling that usually takes effect post-sunburn. Apply before and after sun exposure.

3. As a restorative hair & scalp mask.

Applying this DIY Moisturizer as a scalp mask can help soothe irritation, exfoliate, replenish hydration, and even strengthen and smooth hair follicles. It’s great for people who are dealing with a skin condition like psoriasis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis/dandruff. Apply it directly on your roots and scalp, before you shower. Give it a gentle rub to help it penetrate, and rinse thoroughly with shampoo after 15-20 minutes.

What you need for DIY Moisturizer:

  • Raw or virgin coconut oil
  • Aloe vera gel
  • Essential oils (optional)

What’s the best aloe & coconut oil for DIY Moisturizer?

Find an aloe vera gel that is …

  • clear and not coloured
  • unscented – no added fragrance including mint or menthol
  • clean – look for a short list of clean ingredients

Here are some brands of aloe gel I recommend …

When sourcing out a coconut oil for your DIY Moisturizer, I recommend raw or virgin + organic.

Which essential oils are best for the skin?

For a body moisturizer, here are my favourite essential oils …

  • Lavender
  • Frankincense
  • Cedarwood
  • Ylang Ylang
  • Geranium

DIY Moisturizer

More natural products for skin health & anti-aging:

And a few healthy anti-aging recipes …

DIY Moisturizer

2-Ingredient Natural DIY Moisturizer

This 2-ingredient DIY Moisturizer is super easy to make and will leave your skin looking and feeling hydrated & youthful! All you need is coconut oil, aloe vera gel and an optional essential oil for natural fragrance. Whip up this skin lovin' and anti-aging moisturizer in less than 5-minutes!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 6 oz

Ingredients
 

  • 1/2 cup raw or virgin coconut oil, soft, but not melted
  • 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
  • A few drops essential oil of choice, optional

Instructions
 

  • Using a small bowl or large glass measuring cup, add all ingredients and stir using a spoon until you reach a whipped like consistency.
  • Transfer to a shallow, wide mouth jar with a lid. Store in your bathroom and give your skin some daily lovin'.

Notes

  • Coconut oil is naturally solid at room temperature. If your coconut oil is too hard for stirring, warm it in the microwave to soften it, BUT don't melt the coconut oil completely. Try 10 sec intervals in the microwave until you get the right consistency.
  • For a moisturizer that is less oily, reduce the amount of coconut oil used and increase the amount of aloe vera gel OR try a 1:1 ratio.
  • If you prefer a fragrance free moisturizer, do not add any essential oils.
  • For a moisturizer with natural fragrance, here are a few skin safe essential oils; lavender, frankincense, cedarwood, geranium & ylang ylang.
  • Here are some recommendations for an aloe vera gel ... Real Aloe Vera Gelly, Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera Gelly & Land Art Aloe Vera Topical Gel
  • This moisturizer will liquefy if kept in a warm environment. If so, be sure to stir before use since ingredients may separate. To solidify moisturizer, place in a cooler environment. Place in the refrigerator to quickly solidify moisturizer. 
Keyword aloe vera, coconut oil, diy, homemade, moisturizer

Healthy Homemade Ginger Ale (Sugar Free)

Healthy Homemade Ginger Ale (Sugar Free)

by | Jul 5, 2021

Homemade Ginger Ale is a healthy & refreshing beverage made with fresh ginger root, lemon or lime, honey and carbonated water. This sugar free cold drink is perfect for the warmer months, when you’re craving something refreshing! AIP, paleo, keto, low-carb & plant-based.

DID YOU KNOW? Ginger is Mother Nature’s medicine especially when it comes to supporting digestive health.

This powerful root can help prevent problems like dyspepsia, a common condition of weakened digestion characterized by symptoms like pain, heartburn, fullness and discomfort.

Ginger relaxes the smooth muscle in your gut lining and helps food move along throughout the system — a major reason why ginger helps people who are bloated, constipated and have other gastrointestinal disorders.

What makes this homemade ginger ale recipe so great:

  • It’s not only refreshing, but super healthy too! Ginger contains antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory + gut supportive properties.
  • It’s delicious with either lemon or lime, so feel free to switch up the flavour each time you make it.
  • Believe it or not, it tastes great unsweetened, so if you’re following a certain diet or just prefer an unsweetened beverage, you’re in luck!
  • Feel free to use club soda, carbonated water or sparkling mineral water–they all work.
  • Garnish with sliced lemon, lime or mint leaves for a pretty drink that’s extra flavourful.
  • You’ll end up with enough ginger liquid to make approx. 10 ginger ales, so you can easily create this refreshing drink throughout the week without grating and boiling ginger each time!
  • You can also use the leftover ginger liquid to make other beverages like Lemon Ginger Tea and this creative Kombucha “Mulegarita” cocktail. Or make a fun & healthy snack like this Honey Lemon Ginger Jello.

Homemade Ginger Ale (AIP, Sugar Free)

What you need for Homemade Ginger Ale:

  • Ginger root
  • Sparkling mineral water or carbonated water
  • Lemon or lime
  • Honey or natural sweetener of choice (optional)

Looking for more healthy cold drinks? You’re going to love these …

Homemade Ginger Ale (AIP, Sugar Free)

Homemade Ginger Ale

Homemade Ginger Ale is a healthy & refreshing beverage made with fresh ginger root, lemon or lime, honey and carbonated water. This sugar free cold drink is perfect for the warmer months, when you’re craving something refreshing! AIP, paleo, keto, low-carb & plant-based.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Cold Drinks
Cuisine: AIP, Keto, Low-Carb, Paleo, Plant-Based
Servings: 2

Ingredients
 

  • 1 lb fresh ginger root
  • 1.5 liters filtered water
  • 1 cup sparkling mineral water, or carbonated water
  • 1 lemon or lime
  • 2-4 tbsp honey or other natural sweetener of choice, optional

Instructions
 

  • Bring 1.5 liters of filtered water to a boil in a small stove-top pot.
  • Peel and finely grate ginger. Add to boiling water. Let boil for 5 minutes then bring to a simmer for 20 minutes.
  • Strain into a mason jar using a fine mesh sifter.
  • If using sweetener, add it to the jar while liquid is still hot and mix. Let cool then store in the fridge.
  • Once ginger liquid is chilled, shake jar then pour 1/2 cup into each serving glass (with or without ice). Squeeze half a lemon or lime into each glass. Top with 1/2 cup carbonated/sparkling water, stir and enjoy!

Notes

  • You'll end up with enough ginger liquid to make approx. 10 ginger ales, so you can easily create this refreshing drink throughout the week without grating and boiling ginger each time! Just store in a mason jar in the fridge.
  • This drink tastes great unsweetened, so if you're following a certain diet or just prefer an unsweetened beverage, leave out the honey/natural sweetener.
  • Feel free to use club soda, carbonated water or sparkling mineral water--they all work.
  • Garnish with sliced lemon, lime or mint leaves for a pretty drink that's extra flavourful.
  • You can also use the leftover ginger liquid to make other beverages like Lemon Ginger Tea and this creative Kombucha "Mulegarita". Or make a fun & healthy snack like this Honey Lemon Ginger Jello.
Keyword carbonated beverage, dairy free, ginger, ginger ale, gluten free, grain free, lemon, sugar free, summer drink

 

Triple Berry Summer Salad (AIP, Paleo)

Triple Berry Summer Salad (AIP, Paleo)

by | Jun 29, 2021

Triple Berry Summer Salad is the perfect salad recipe for the summer! Packed with three types of berries, avocado, red onion, optional crunchy walnuts, all coated in a creamy balsamic dressing. This salad is the perfect way to take advantage of the fresh berry season! AIP, paleo, low-carb & plant-based.

Triple berry salad and I go way back to the days when I would travel to Florida with my dad and step-mom, and we’d enjoy lunch and drinks at our go-to poolside restaurant. Not a lunch passed where I didn’t make sweet love to a delicious triple berry salad with salmon or chicken.

Since my favourite salad is a plane ride away, I decided to not only re-create it, but also modify it slightly to make it AIP, paleo & plant-based friendly. So now you and I can enjoy this healthy salad at home, any time!

This simple and fresh summer salad makes for a delicious meal with the addition of meat or fish (my favourites are chicken and salmon). You can also serve this salad as a lighter lunch option or at the beginning or end of a meal.

Triple Berry Summer Salad (AIP, Plant-Based, Paleo)

What makes this Triple Berry Summer Salad so great …

  • It’s packed with antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables.
  • You can use whichever berries you desire or whatever you have on hand. Also, no need to use three varieties, one or two will work too.
  • It’s dairy free, but still creamy and delicious thanks to avocado, which is loaded with healthy fats and fiber.
  • If you’re following an AIP diet, this recipe can be easily modified by omitting nuts and black pepper. If you want added crunch, try crushed toasted coconut chips, tiger nuts or bee pollen.
  • You can dress this salad however you like. My creamy balsamic dressing is delicious, but feel free to keep it simple with just olive oil & balsamic vinegar. A homemade raspberry vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing would work great as well.
  • Simply add chicken, salmon or another protein to make it an easy and complete meal.

Triple Berry Summer Salad (AIP, Plant-Based, Paleo)

What you need for Triple Berry Summer Salad:

  • Mixed salad greens
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Blackberries
  • Avocado
  • Red onion
  • Walnuts (omit for AIP version)
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Honey
  • Garlic
  • Oregano or basil

Looking for more fresh salad recipes? You’re going to love these …

Triple Berry Summer Salad (AIP, Plant-Based, Paleo)

Triple Berry Summer Salad

Triple Berry Summer Salad is the perfect salad recipe for the summer! Packed with three types of berries, avocado, red onion, optional crunchy walnuts, all coated in a creamy balsamic dressing. This salad is the perfect way to take advantage of the fresh berry season! AIP, paleo, low-carb & plant-based friendly.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: AIP, Low-Carb, Paleo, Plant-Based
Servings: 4

Ingredients
 

  • 10 oz mixed salad greens, I use organic spring mix in a container
  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1 cup blackberries, or raspberries
  • 1 avocado, cut into chunks
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or other nut, (omit for AIP version)

Creamy Balsamic Dressing

  • 1 chunk avocado, roughly 2" x 2"
  • 1 small garlic clove
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano or basil
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, (omit for AIP version)

Instructions
 

  • Place mixed salad greens in a large bowl.
  • Add berries, avocado, onion and walnuts on top.
  • Using a food processor or blender, combine salad dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
  • Add creamy balsamic dressing to the salad and toss until evenly coated.
  • Serve at the beginning or end of a meal OR add meat or fish to this salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can use whichever berries you desire or whatever you have on hand. Also, no need to use three varieties, one or two will work too.
  • If you're following an AIP diet, this recipe can be easily modified by omitting nuts and black pepper. If you want added crunch, try crushed toasted coconut chips, tiger nuts or bee pollen.
  • You can dress this salad however you like. My creamy balsamic dressing is delicious, but feel free to keep it simple with just olive oil & balsamic vinegar. A homemade raspberry vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing would work great as well.
  • Simply add chicken, salmon or another protein to make it an easy and complete meal.
Keyword blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, dairy free, gluten free, grain free, healthy lunch, healthy salad, soy free, strawberries, summer recipes, summer salad

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie (Keto, Paleo)

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie (Keto, Paleo)

by | Feb 9, 2021

If you’re a fan of chocolate covered strawberries then this smoothie recipe is for you! Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie is filled with all the right ingredients to make a healthy & complete meal, so enjoy it for breakfast, lunch or dinner!

What makes Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie so healthy

  1. The right balance of macronutrients including high-quality protein, which is often missing in most smoothie recipes. Protein is not only a source of vital nutrients required for optimal health, but it’s also essential for sending healthy hormonal signals throughout your body.
  2. No excess fruit or juices, which keeps your blood sugar levels in check while still giving you small doses of powerful nutrients and fiber found in whole fruits.
  3. Healthy fats for optimal health and a smaller waistline! Healthy dietary fat not only fuels every cell in your body, but also allows you to absorb fat-soluble vitamins found in fruits and vegetables.
  4. Loaded with green goodness which provides antioxidants to combat free radicals & essential vitamins and minerals + supports detoxification, collagen production, gut health, weight loss, & disease prevention.
  5. Gut friendly & healing ingredients that are FREE OF gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, grains, fillers, artificial flavours, colours, preservatives or sweeteners + other common gut irritants.

Feel free to use your favourite protein powder in this recipe or you can try my go-to protein powder. This awesome & gut friendly protein powder will make all your smoothies taste like dessert in a cup! It’s squeaky clean, free of common gut irritants & naturally sweetened with stevia (so no blood sugar spikes).

If you’re using vanilla flavoured protein powder

To achieve a rich chocolate flavour from your smoothies when using vanilla flavoured protein powder just add 1-2 tablespoons of cacao powder into your blender along with the other smoothie ingredients. Blend & enjoy!

Cacao is the purest form of chocolate which is why I recommend it. It’s an easy find since most grocery stores carry it nowadays. You can also find cacao powder online.

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie Paleo Keto

What you need for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie:

  • Spinach
  • Strawberries
  • Avocado or coconut oil
  • PurePaleo Protein (or other gut friendly protein powder)
  • Cacao powder
  • Water or unsweetened nut milk

Want more healthy smoothie recipes? You’re going to love these …

If you’re looking for more gut friendly smoothie recipes, get my FREE Quick-Start Guide To Smoothies or grab my smoothie e-book which has 32 dessert-inspired smoothie recipes for IBS & weight loss!

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie Paleo Keto

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie

If you're a fan of chocolate covered strawberries then this smoothie recipe is for you! Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie is filled with all the right ingredients to make a healthy & complete meal, so enjoy it for breakfast, lunch or dinner!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Smoothie
Cuisine: Keto, Low-Carb, Paleo
Servings: 1

Equipment

  • High-powered blender

Ingredients
 

  • 1 cup spinach, fresh or frozen
  • 1/2 - 1 cup strawberries
  • 1/2 avocado, or 1 tbsp. coconut oil
  • 1 scoop PurePaleo Protein, chocolate
  • 1 - 2 tbsp cacao powder*
  • 1 cup water, or unsweetened nut milk

Instructions
 

  • Blend all ingredients using a high-powered blender.
  • Pour into your favourite smoothie cup and enjoy!

Notes

Get PurePaleo Protein powder HERE or check out my protein powder checklist to source out a different high-quality protein powder.
*If you’re using vanilla flavoured protein powder, add 2 tbsp of cacao powder. If you’re using chocolate flavoured protein powder, add 1 tbsp.
Keyword dairy free, gluten free, grain free, gut health, healthy smoothie, meal replacement, sugar free, weight loss

Paleo Nachos (AIP, Dairy & Grain Free)

Paleo Nachos (AIP, Dairy & Grain Free)

by | Jan 18, 2021

Paleo Nachos are made with tostone “chips”, flavourful ground beef, an avocado crema & dairy free nacho sauce. It’s one of the best healthy & hearty nacho recipes out there! Free of gluten, grains & dairy + AIP friendly! Enjoy them while watching a game or movie, or as a fun dinner dish!

Did you know, more and more research is showing that cattle, pigs and poultry raised on their natural pasture and grass-based diets yield meat that is lower in total fat and calories, and food that is higher in good fats like Omega 3’s. In addition, this meat more concentrated with antioxidants such as vitamins E, C and beta-carotene, and with increased levels of other disease-fighting substances.

Generally speaking, animals are not eating what they were naturally meant to eat. As more animals are raised by the thousands and packed into concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), their natural diets of roots and grasses, grubs and bugs has been replaced by a standard factory farm food of grains, soybeans, King Corn and various advanced pharmaceutical products.

Good science shows that eating meat, milk and eggs from grass-fed and pastured animals will provide your body with more health-enhancing, disease fighting materials than industrial-grade CAFO-raised protein.

Therefore, you should consider sourcing out animal products from farms that have ethical farming practices–and raise animals on their natural pasture from beginning to end.

One of the farms I order meat from is Wild Meadows Farm in Grey County Ontario. Not only can you taste the quality in the meat, but you feel good about eating it too. I’m truly grateful for businesses, like Wild Meadows Farm, who put the time, energy and resources into ethical farming practices.

I’ve used their grass-fed ground beef in various recipes and the result is always amazing & delicious!

I highly recommend Paleo Nachos with grass-fed ground beef. This dish is made from whole food ingredients and is free of gluten, grains and dairy. It’s great for those following a paleo or AIP diet — or anyone looking for a super healthy version of nachos!

Paleo Nachos AIP Dairy Free

What you need for Paleo Nachos

Want more wholesome comfort food recipes? You’re going to love these …

Tostone Nachos

Paleo Nachos are made with tostone "chips", flavourful ground beef, an avocado crema & dairy free nacho sauce. It's one of the best healthy & hearty nacho recipes out there! Free of gluten, grains & dairy + AIP friendly! Enjoy them while watching a game or movie, or as a fun dinner dish!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 3 people

Equipment

  • Food processor or blender
  • Stove-top pans

Ingredients
 

  • 2 large plantains, peeled and cut into 1 inch slices
  • 1 lb grass-fed ground beef
  • Sea salt
  • Avocado oil

Avocado Crema

  • 1 large avocado
  • 1/4 cup cilantro
  • 2 tbsp red onion
  • 1/3 cup light coconut milk, canned
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Sea salt , to taste

Nacho Sauce

  • 1/2 cup light coconut milk, canned
  • 1/2 cup sweet potato, steamed or roasted
  • Juice of 1/4 lime
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt

Toppings

  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp red onion, chopped
  • Black or green olives, sliced

Taco Seasoning

  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground garlic
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Using a food processor or blender, pulse all avocado crema ingredients together. Set aside.
  • Blend or process all nacho sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
  • Prepare all toppings and set aside.
  • Cook ground beef with taco season + 1 tsp salt in a pan until meat is browned.

Fried Plantains/Tostones

  • While beef is cooking, cover bottom of a large pan in avocado oil and heat on medium-high.
  • When oil is hot, add plantain slices and fry on both sides until golden (roughly 2-minutes per side).⁠ Season with salt.
  • Remove plantains from pan and gently smash until flattened (I smash my plantains between two pieces of parchment paper with a mug or can).⁠
  • Add smashed plantains back to the pan and fry again on both sides until golden brown.⁠ Now you have tostones, which will be used as a base for your nachos!

Assembly

  • Lay tostones on a serving platter and spread beef on top.
  • Drizzle avocado crema and nacho sauce on top then garnish with toppings. Serve while it's hot!

Paleo Nachos AIP Dairy Free