Packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, wild-caught fish fits easily and delectably into a paleo diet. While you might not be doing your own fishing or hunting, knowing where your food comes from — like wild-caught fish from Alaska — is a big plus when following a paleo diet.
What Is a Paleo Diet?
Based on the way prehistoric humans ate, a paleo — or paleolithic — diet limits processed foods, grains, and most dairy, and encourages dietary choices that could have been made by cavemen (think fishing, hunting, and gathering). Some people believe a paleo diet can aid in weight loss, fighting insulin resistance, and achieving other health benefits. Including wild salmon in a weight loss diet has myriad benefits due to its nutritional profile.
Wild-caught fish can provide a lean protein source, as well as vitamins and minerals a paleo diet might need a boost of, like calcium. *As always, please consult with your doctor before starting a new diet plan, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions.*
These 5 recipes show you easy ways to enjoy wild-caught seafood from Alaska on a paleo diet.
Pan-Seared White Fish with Garlic, Citrus, and Herbs
Garlic, citrus, and herbs complement the mild flavor of pan-seared white fish in this 10-minute meal. Switch up the citrus and herbs to take the fish in a different direction. Ghee is a paleo-favorite cooking fat, and adds a decadent buttery note.
To make our recipe for Pan-Seared White Fish with Garlic, Citrus, and Herbs, you’ll need:
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High-heat cooking oil or ghee
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Garlic
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Lemon or lime
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Tender green herbs, like parsley, chives, or cilantro
Irish-Style Pacific Cod Cakes
Flaked, wild-caught fish and paleo-friendly mashed potatoes come together to make a hearty, comforting meal in about 30 minutes from start to finish — and far more quickly if you’re using last night’s leftovers. Using mashed potatoes creates a denser, richer patty and is a nod to Irish culinary traditions. The only simple adaptation you’ll need to make is to use paleo breadcrumbs to create the crispy exterior for these cod cakes.
To make our recipe for Irish-Style Pacific Cod Cakes, you’ll need:
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Paleo-friendly mashed potatoes
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Egg
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Dijon mustard
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Paleo breadcrumbs
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High-heat cooking oil
Broiled Pacific Halibut with Briny Salsa Verde
A vibrant Italian salsa verde is the perfect complement to Pacific halibut, and comes together with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Feel free to adapt it with different herbs or salty, briny components in your fridge and pantry. Serve alongside vegetables or potatoes to round out a paleo-friendly meal.
To make our recipe for Broiled Pacific Halibut with Briny Salsa Verde, you’ll need:
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Tender green herbs, like parsley, mint, or basil
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Capers, olives, or anchovies
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Garlic
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Vinegar
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Lemon
One-Pouch Meal with Pacific Cod, Potatoes and Kale
This light but hearty meal comes together in under 30 minutes. Tightly sealing the parchment paper or aluminum foil is essential to ensure the mild, flaky Pacific cod from Alaska is infused with the flavors and aromas of the lemon, garlic, and thyme. Potatoes are a great paleo-friendly source of carbs.
To make our recipe for One-Pouch Meal with Pacific Cod, Potatoes and Kale, you’ll need:
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Dry white wine
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Garlic
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Lemon
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New potatoes
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Kale
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Thyme
Salmon Poached in Aromatic Coconut Lime Sauce
Though this wild-caught salmon from Alaska is prepared delicately, it delivers bold flavor. Made with coconut milk and lemongrass, it’s rich, creamy, and herbaceous. This cozy meal takes only 20 minutes to make and works year-round.
To make our recipe for Salmon Poached in Aromatic Coconut Lime Sauce, you’ll need:
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Garlic
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Ginger
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Lemongrass
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Coconut milk
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Paleo-friendly fish stock or broth
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Fish sauce, soy sauce, or tamari
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Lime
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Cilantro and green onion