15+ Easy Clean Eating Recipes for Beginners
If you’re new to clean eating or looking for more recipes, then you’ve come to the right place! I’ve rounded up the best clean eating recipes for beginners that are both easy and delicious. Clean eating doesn’t have to be overly expensive, hard to follow, or complicated.
Clean Eating for Beginners
There’s no better time than now to clean up your diet, start eating more real foods, and begin supporting your health. The good news is that most people don’t have to follow a strict plan to lose a few pounds or feel healthier.
Studies show that more moderate ways of eating are more sustainable over the long term that super strict diets. That’s why I love clean eating: it’s flexible, moderate, and easily adapted to one’s own needs.
Whether you’re looking for weight loss or just want to feel better, clean eating is the best way to get healthier without feeling deprived.
Learn more about what foods to eat on a clean eating diet and the best appliances for clean eating.
Clean eating can also help with symptoms of health issues, such as symptoms of a Hashimoto’s flare-up. Always speak with your doctor before making changes to your diet.
What is Clean Eating?
Just to be clear, there isn’t one strict definition of clean eating. I like to say that clean eating includes real, whole foods most of the time, choosing organic and sustainable options whenever possible. Clean eating also means selecting foods that meet one’s individual needs.
Some people may need to avoid gluten or dairy, but not everyone does. In general, eating more veggies and fewer processed and sugary foods will put you on the right track for a clean eating approach.
Learn more about the basics of clean eating and get my free list of gluten and dairy free foods.
You may also want to check out my list of the best gluten-free vegan recipes if you are following a plant-based approach.
Easy Clean Eating Recipes
Now it’s time to share the recipes! I’ve selected easy recipes that the whole family will enjoy.
If you don’t find enough recipes on this list, then you can also check out my list of the best clean eating websites for more quick healthy dinners.
You’re sure to find tons of healthy dinner recipes that the entire family will love.
Enjoy!!!
Gluten-Free Vegetable Frittata Without Dairy
This Gluten-Free Frittata is filled with flavorful vegetables like bell pepper, spinach, and mushrooms. This healthy recipe is also made dairy-free without cheese or milk. This is an excellent breakfast, brunch or lunch option.
Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta (Copycat)
Enjoy this perfect pasta recipe that is a copycat version of the Cheesecake Factory’s Tomato Basil Pasta dish. Everyone loves this protein-rich pasta dish that has a gluten-free option. The leftovers are great for lunch!
Creamy Coconut Shrimp
For a quick weeknight dinner, try this recipe for Creamy Coconut Shrimp. This easy skillet recipe is a family favorite that is so versatile. Serve this gluten-free and dairy-free meal with cooked rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
Shrimp Udon
Everyone loves this Japanese-style Shrimp Udon recipe that includes tender shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. This stir fry recipe is ready in 35 minutes or less. Gluten-free option included.
Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad
This is a yummy and Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad recipe! This classic American lunch or potluck recipe is easy to prepare and store until you’re ready to serve. Gluten-free and dairy-free options included.
Salmon Salad with Mayo
This healthy Salmon Salad with Mayo is a perfect easy lunch or dinner. It’s flavorful and satisfying, with only five ingredients. This recipe can be made with leftover cooked salmon or canned salmon.
Gluten-Free Italian Pasta Salad (Vegetarian)
Looking for a delicious gluten-free pasta salad? Look no further than this amazing Italian version. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any summer gathering. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it.
Gluten-Free Crab Cakes With Almond Flour
When you want a flavorful meal that is high in protein, low in carbs, and so easy to make, try these homemade Gluten-Free Crab Cakes using canned crab. This recipe is also made grain-free using almond flour.
Chickpea and Lentil Curry with Coconut Milk
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious pantry meal, try this Vegan Chickpea and Lentil Curry with Coconut Milk. It’s a one-pot dish that is full of warming spices and rich coconut flavor.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Dinner
Get a simple and nutritious dinner prepped with this Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa recipe. Throw all the ingredients in the crockpot and then enjoy your tasty meal at the end of the day. This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.
Panda Express Mushroom Chicken (Copycat)
Everyone loves this healthy makeover of the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken recipe. Zucchini, mushrooms and chicken get cooked with a sticky ginger sauce. Serve it with cooked white rice or cauliflower rice. This is a 30 minute meal!
Low-Carb Chicken Cacciatore (Instant Pot or Stovetop)
This Low-Carb Chicken Cacciatore is a classic and comforting dish rich in tomato flavor. Make this easy recipe in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop. Serve it with zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly, paleo, and Whole30 dinner.
Simple Curry Chicken Recipe
A flavorful dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. Try this Simple Curry Chicken Recipe for your next weeknight meal. This Indian-inspired Chicken Curry is ready in less than 30 minutes. Gluten-free and dairy-free.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Paprika
Make these Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Paprika for an easy, weeknight meal. Serve the juicy baked chicken with a salad, roasted potatoes, and steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish. This recipe is gluten-free, paleo, and Whole30-approved.
Dairy-Free Chicken & Rice Casserole
This delicious Dairy-Free Chicken & Rice Casserole is the perfect main dish for busy weeknights. It’s full of healthy and satisfying ingredients, and topped with a rich cashew cheese sauce. This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.
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FAQs About Clean Eating
There is no one set clean eating food list that everyone agrees on, but a general rule is to choose real, whole foods over processed foods (see my clean eating food list). Think fruits, vegetables, meat, chicken, fish, eggs, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, dairy, and healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, and coconut. You can read more on my list of foods to eat every day.
Take it one meal at a time or make small upgrades to your meals whenever possible. Try to meal prep whenever possible. Add an extra serving of vegetables at dinnertime or swap a processed food with a real food option. See more of my tips for how to eat clean.
The only rule is that you eat according to your needs. There are no rules with clean eating, just do your best to choose real, unprocessed foods as often as possible. See my article for tips on how to lose weight with clean eating.
Cook what you love. Don’t force yourself to eat kale if you hate it. If you don’t like bitter vegetables like broccoli, then choose carrots or red bell peppers. Remember simple ingredients are the base of healthy eating. See my list of the best vegetables for picky eaters.
A clean eating delicious meal can be as simple as baked sweet potatoes with lean proteins and steamed veggies. Take your time when transitioning off of processed ingredients to a healthy lifestyle. Over time, you’ll have at least several clean-eating recipes that have become your favorite recipes!
Probably not, due to the fact that our soil has become depleted. Check out my articles on the best vitamins for women over 50 and the best vitamins for 30-year old women.
More Clean Eating Resources for Beginners
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About the Author: Carrie Forrest has a master’s degree in public health with a specialty in nutrition and is studying to be a holistic nutritionist. She is a top wellness and food blogger with over 5 million annual visitors to her site. Carrie has an incredible story of recovery from chronic illness and is passionate about helping other women transform their health. Send her a message through her contact form.
Note: this post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for recommendations related to your individual situation.
So many ideas! I can imagine there must be at least something for everyone
Talk about a great selection of healthy recipes for clean eating. I can honestly say that I would make and each one! Great post, Carrie!
We are trying to eat healthier for the New Year…I love all of these recipe ideas.
Lots of amazing choice here and so many recipes I will be trying soon.
Great read! I love that you mentioned that their isn’t a strict definition for “clean eating.” It’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition! I lean towards more of a Paleo template, with some gluten-free grains and high-quality dairy because that’s what works for me! I’m a firm believer that once you figure out what foods make you feel your absolute best, the rest will fall seamlessly into place!
Yes, I needed to read this article! I’ve been having this reoccurring illness and clean eating has actually helped me with getting better! Oatmeal does wonders, personally, for me! So, I’m glad it’s also on your list.
thank you for a wonderful collection of recipes. i am going to try the smoothies and desserts first.. 🙂
A woman after my own heart!!! You’re so welcome, Vidya!
Those all sounds like really tasty recipes. My favorite ones would have to be the desserts, the Indian spice burgers sounds amazing as well.
Such great ideas!! As someone who is both gluten & dairy free, I can definitely appreciate this list!
-Madi xo
this is the perfect time of year to try some cleaner eating recipes. I need to try some of the smoothie ones… i’ve been so uninspired by drinking the same ones every single morning