As the curtain closed on 2019, it marked not just the end of a year, but a truly monumental chapter filled with growth, joy, and incredible culinary creations here at Unbound Wellness. This period was extraordinary for countless reasons, both personal and professional. It was the year my husband and I embarked on the exciting journey to welcome our baby boy in April 2020, a life-changing milestone that brought immense anticipation and happiness. Concurrently, I poured my heart into a passion project, culminating in the release of my very first print cookbook – a dream come true for me and a resource for so many of you seeking delicious, healthy recipes.
On the professional front, 2019 saw Unbound Wellness flourish as a vibrant community hub for healthy living. It was my inaugural year as a fully self-employed entrepreneur, a leap of faith that was incredibly rewarding thanks to your unwavering support. The growth of this platform was astounding, welcoming well over 2 million visitors who sought out recipes, wellness tips, and a sense of belonging within our community. To support this growth and better serve our audience, I was also able to expand my dedicated team, introduce exciting new product offerings, and further solidify Unbound Wellness as a trusted resource for those pursuing a healthier lifestyle through mindful eating.
My gratitude for your support knows no bounds. Each pin, share, comment, and kind word fuels my passion and commitment to creating recipes that are not only nourishing but also incredibly delicious and accessible. Your engagement is the heartbeat of Unbound Wellness, and it is through your collective enthusiasm that we celebrate these reader-selected top 10 recipes of 2019. This list isn’t just about food; it’s a testament to the vibrant, interactive community we’ve built together, highlighting the dishes that resonated most with you throughout the year.
It’s important to note that this curated selection specifically showcases new recipes that were developed and published in 2019. While beloved classics from previous years, such as the ever-popular Sweet Potato Chicken Poppers and the flavorful Spinach Avocado Chicken Burgers, continue to receive tremendous love and remain staple favorites for many, this particular roundup is a celebration of the fresh culinary inspirations that debuted last year. It’s a snapshot of the exciting new flavors and innovative approaches to healthy eating that captivated our community.
Each recipe on this list embodies the Unbound Wellness philosophy: creating wholesome, delicious meals that are often Paleo, AIP (Autoimmune Protocol), and Whole30 compliant, ensuring that healthy eating never means sacrificing taste or satisfaction. From comforting classics with a healthy twist to innovative weeknight dinners, these dishes have earned their spot through your ratings, shares, and heartfelt comments. Get ready to discover, or rediscover, the most cherished new recipes that made 2019 an unforgettable year in our kitchen!
Top 10 Recipes of 2019
10. Beef Stroganoff
“Thank you Michelle for another amazing recipe! It was easy to make, texture was thick and it turned out exactly as shown in your picture. Taste is excellent and satisfy my craving for stroganoff.”- Julie Morin
Kicking off our top ten countdown is this incredibly satisfying and creamy Paleo Beef Stroganoff. This dish proves that classic comfort food can be both delicious and incredibly healthy. Made without dairy or gluten, this recipe achieves that signature rich, savory flavor and a luxuriously thick texture that perfectly mimics traditional stroganoff, making it a standout for anyone following a Whole30, Paleo, or AIP lifestyle. It’s a heartwarming meal that brings back nostalgic flavors while aligning with modern dietary needs. Readers rave about its authentic taste and ease of preparation, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for the entire family. It truly satisfies that deep craving for a hearty, flavorful meal, proving healthy eating can be truly indulgent.
9. Pineapple Chicken Poppers
“These ones are my family’s favorite. So good!” – Erin
Landing at number nine, the Pineapple Chicken Poppers quickly became a family favorite and a testament to how fun and flavorful healthy eating can be. These delightful poppers are incredibly easy to make, kid-friendly, and boast a perfect balance of savory and sweet thanks to the tender chicken and juicy pineapple. They are completely gluten-free, Paleo, Whole30, and AIP compliant, making them an excellent choice for a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether served as a main dish with a side of cauliflower rice or as an appetizer, these poppers are a hit. The vibrant flavors and bite-sized appeal make them an exciting addition to any meal plan, promising a taste that even the pickiest eaters will adore. It’s no surprise they earned a spot on this list, cherished by many Unbound Wellness families.
8. Avocado Tuna Salad
“OMG, this was amazingly delicious! I chopped everything up and added chopped arugula. This may end up being a weekly thing!” – Denise
Coming in at number eight, our Avocado Tuna Salad revolutionized the way many approach a quick, healthy lunch or snack. This recipe brilliantly swaps traditional mayonnaise for creamy, nutrient-dense avocado, creating a rich texture and vibrant flavor profile. It’s not just delicious but also packed with healthy fats and protein, making it incredibly satisfying. This tuna salad is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, fitting seamlessly into Paleo, Whole30, and AIP guidelines. It’s incredibly versatile – serve it in lettuce cups, on sweet potato toast, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful. Readers consistently praise its fresh taste and how effortlessly it can be customized with extra greens or spices. This dish quickly became a weekly staple for many, proving that simple ingredients can yield truly extraordinary results.
7. Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie
“SO delicious! Perfect for a winter comfort food!”- Heidi
Securing the seventh spot is the Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie, a quintessential comfort food reimagined for healthy eating. This recipe takes a beloved classic and transforms it into a nutrient-packed, incredibly satisfying meal by topping a savory ground meat and vegetable filling with a creamy, rich cauliflower mash instead of potatoes. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy a hearty, warming dish while adhering to Paleo, Whole30, and AIP dietary needs. The cauliflower topping is so perfectly seasoned and textured that even potato lovers are impressed. It’s particularly celebrated during colder months for its soul-soothing qualities and the feeling of warmth it brings. Readers love how this pie delivers on flavor and coziness without compromising on health. It’s truly a perfect dish for gathering the family around the table.
6. Cauliflower Gnocchi
“This is just delicious!! Thank you so much for creating this wonderful dish. I’m eating it with smoked trout and a green salad – divine xx”- Amanda
At number six, we have the innovative Cauliflower Gnocchi, a game-changer for anyone missing traditional pasta dishes on a Paleo or grain-free diet. This recipe masterfully transforms humble cauliflower into delicate, pillowy gnocchi that holds its shape beautifully and soaks up sauces wonderfully. It’s an ingenious way to enjoy a typically comfort-carb dish in a much healthier, anti-inflammatory form. This gnocchi is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary restrictions, including Whole30 and AIP. Its neutral flavor makes it incredibly versatile, pairing well with everything from simple tomato sauces to pestos, or as Amanda suggests, with smoked trout and a fresh green salad. This recipe delighted many by offering a delicious and healthy alternative to a classic, proving that dietary changes don’t mean sacrificing culinary joy.
5. Mongolian Ground Beef
“Our new weeknight favourite!! Soooo delicious, and easy to make!!” – Lindsay
Breaking into the top five, the Mongolian Ground Beef quickly rose to fame as a new weeknight favorite across our community. This recipe takes the beloved flavors of Mongolian beef – savory, slightly sweet, and wonderfully umami – and adapts them into a quick, easy, and incredibly versatile ground beef dish. It’s designed to be compliant with Paleo, Whole30, and AIP dietary guidelines, making it a perfect solution for those seeking a fast, flavorful, and healthy meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed, coming together in minutes without compromising on the rich, authentic taste. Serve it over cauliflower rice, zoodles, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Readers adored its vibrant flavors and the sheer convenience it offered, cementing its status as a go-to for busy evenings.
4. Dairy-Free Queso
“I haven’t eaten any dairy in over 2 years and this recipe was everything I could have ever hoped for! So delicious. I like to serve with taco meat, red onions, and cilantro with Siete grain-free chips or plantain chips!” – Katie
Claiming the fourth spot, the Dairy-Free Queso brought immense joy and satisfied deep cravings for many in our community. For those navigating dairy sensitivities or allergies, finding a truly rich, creamy, and flavorful queso alternative can be a challenge – until this recipe came along! This ingenious concoction uses wholesome ingredients to create a dip that is remarkably similar in texture and taste to its dairy-laden counterpart, making it a sensation for Paleo, Whole30, and AIP followers. It’s perfect for game nights, parties, or simply as a delicious addition to your taco night. The rich, cheesy flavor without any dairy makes it a standout. Readers expressed profound relief and happiness at finally finding a queso that hits all the right notes, making it an indispensable part of their healthy eating journey. Katie’s serving suggestion truly highlights its versatility and deliciousness!
3. Turmeric Chicken Curry
“This curry was amazing! My 1-year old clapped at the end of dinner. Thanks for a great recipe!” – Katy
Taking the bronze medal at number three, the Turmeric Chicken Curry quickly became a beloved dish for its incredible depth of flavor and vibrant, health-boosting ingredients. This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich, aromatic curry sauce infused with the powerful anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric. It’s a dairy-free, gluten-free, Paleo, Whole30, and AIP compliant meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. The subtle warmth of the spices combined with creamy coconut milk creates a truly comforting and exotic culinary experience. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a nourishing weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion. Katy’s delightful feedback, noting even her one-year-old’s approval, speaks volumes about its universal appeal and deliciousness, cementing its place as a top reader favorite.
2. Mongolian Beef Stir Fry
“Made this tonight, and it was absolutely delicious! Thank you!!” – Jess
Our runner-up at number two is the sensational Mongolian Beef Stir Fry, a testament to the power of a perfectly balanced sweet and savory sauce combined with tender, thinly sliced beef. This recipe offers a healthier, homemade version of a popular takeout classic, making it fully Paleo, Whole30, and AIP compliant without sacrificing any of the signature flavors. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you crave something satisfying and flavorful. The rich, glossy sauce coats every piece of beef and vegetable, creating an irresistible meal. Readers consistently praised its authentic taste and how easily it comes together, often calling it a new family staple. It’s a prime example of how you can enjoy your favorite comfort dishes in a way that supports your health goals, proving that delicious and nutritious can go hand-in-hand.
1. Chicken Marsala
“So delicious! My 18month old and husband loved it too! Thank you for a great recipe! So excited to try more of your recipes!” – Jackie
And finally, taking the coveted top spot as the number one most loved new recipe of 2019, is the exquisite Chicken Marsala! This recipe is a true masterpiece, showcasing how a classic, elegant dish can be completely transformed to be Paleo, Whole30, and AIP compliant without losing any of its sophisticated charm or incredible depth of flavor. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared and then simmered in a rich, mushroom-infused Marsala wine-free sauce that achieves a complex, savory taste, making it feel incredibly gourmet yet remarkably healthy. It’s a dish that impresses guests but is straightforward enough for a weeknight meal. The rave reviews, especially from those like Jackie who noted it was a hit with both her husband and 18-month-old, underscore its universal appeal and deliciousness. This Chicken Marsala truly embodies the Unbound Wellness mission: creating nourishing, flavorful meals that bring joy and satisfaction to every table. It’s an absolute must-try and a well-deserved champion of 2019’s new recipes.
