Healthy Jambalaya Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Before diving into the vibrant flavors of healthy jambalaya that aligns with Whole30, low-carb, and paleo diets, let’s chat about what to serve alongside this dish. Pairing plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall meal experience.

Crispy Green Salad
A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette is the perfect complement. The freshness balances the hearty jambalaya and adds a beautiful crunch.

Cauliflower Rice
Staying with the low-carb theme, cauliflower rice is a great, neutral side. Its subtle flavor allows the jambalaya to shine. Simply sauté some cauliflower rice in olive oil, season with a pinch of salt, and you’re good to go.

Guacamole or Avocado Slices
Creamy avocado adds a rich texture that contrasts nicely with the spices in jambalaya. A simple guacamole, seasoned with lime, garlic, and cilantro, can elevate your dish further.

Zucchini Noodles
Another fantastic substitute for traditional starchy sides. Toss zucchini noodles with olive oil and herbs for a refreshing option that still feels indulgent.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s get to know this healthy jambalaya a bit better.

Hi there! Welcome to my kitchen, a space where delicious meets nutritious, and today we’re whipping up a scrumptious batch of healthy jambalaya. This dish brings all the comforting flavors of traditional jambalaya while being fit for those on Whole30, low-carb, and paleo diets. Imagine sitting down to a warm, hearty bowl filled with aromatic spices, juicy shrimp, and zesty sausage. Not only does this meal make your taste buds dance, but it also supports your dietary goals without compromising on flavor.

As a registered dietitian and a self-proclaimed kitchen enthusiast, I’m excited to share my favorite version of jambalaya with you. Let’s dive right in!

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What is Healthy Jambalaya Whole30 Low Carb Paleo?

Healthy jambalaya is a delightful fusion of proteins, vegetables, and spices traditionally found in Cajun and Creole cuisines. In this healthy rendition, we use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice, which significantly cuts down on carbs. 

The dish is loaded with flavor and texture, creating a satisfying meal that adheres to Whole30 and paleo standards. The ingredients are simple but versatile, perfect for meal prepping or enjoying fresh from the stove.

What Does It Taste Like?

Now, let’s talk about the taste. When you take a bite of this healthy jambalaya, you’re greeted with a medley of flavors.

• The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick without overwhelming your palate.
  
• The smoked paprika gives it a warm, robust depth that feels luxurious.
  
• Fresh vegetables add crunch and brightness, balancing the richness of the proteins.
  
• The riced cauliflower absorbs all the flavors beautifully, delivering a satisfying base for the dish.

This jambalaya is a taste adventure that respects your dietary choices while keeping your taste buds happy.

Why Does This Recipe Work?

Here’s why you’ll want to make this jambalaya:

1. Packed with Nutrients
Using cauliflower rice dramatically reduces the carb count while keeping the dish filling. You get fiber, vitamins, and minerals without compromising flavor.

2. Versatile Ingredients
The beauty of jambalaya is its flexibility. Whether you prefer shrimp, chicken, or sausage, you can easily customize this recipe to meet your taste.

3. Flavor-Packed Seasonings
With a well-balanced Cajun seasoning blend and fresh herbs, this dish bursts with flavor. Each ingredient is thoughtfully selected to enhance the overall profile without additives or preservatives.

4. Meal Prep Friendly
Jambalaya keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch, store it, and you have a delicious meal ready to go any day of the week.

Ingredients for Healthy Jambalaya Whole30 Low Carb Paleo

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful dish. Remember, fresh ingredients make a big difference!

• 1 ½ tablespoons avocado oil (or another neutral oil of your choice)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 ½ – 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend
• 5 cups frozen riced cauliflower
• 1 pound medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ – 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 pound sausage, such as Aidell’s chicken-apple sausage, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
• 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• ½ medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
• Green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Louisiana hot sauce, to taste
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by gathering and prepping your ingredients. Chop your vegetables, mince the garlic, and ensure your shrimp is ready to go. The faster you can get this step done, the quicker you’ll enjoy your meal!

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. This will be the starting point for sautéing your flavors.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. This step is vital since it builds the flavor foundation.

Step 4: Add Sausage

Stir in the sliced sausage and cook for another 3–4 minutes. The sausage will release oils that will further enhance the dish.

Step 5: Incorporate Seasonings

Sprinkle in the thyme, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt. Give everything a good stir, allowing the spices to bloom. The kitchen should begin smelling delightful at this point!

Step 6: Mix in Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes and chicken broth. This mixture is where the magic happens, allowing everything to meld together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Add Cauliflower Rice

Stir in the riced cauliflower. Mix well until it’s combined with the other ingredients. Cover and let simmer for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8: Add Shrimp

When the cauliflower is tender, add the shrimp. Cook for another 5–7 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and green onions. Feel free to drizzle on some Louisiana hot sauce if you like things spicy!

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your jambalaya turns out perfectly.

Customize Proteins: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, use chicken or ground turkey instead.
Fresh vs. Frozen: While frozen cauliflower works well, fresh riced cauliflower can enhance texture.
Storage: This dish stores wonderfully, so make extra for meal prep!
Spice Levels: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your heat preference. You can always add more later!
Consistency: If the jambalaya is too dry, add a bit more broth as needed during cooking.

Nutrition Information

One generous serving of this jambalaya is approximately:

This recipe is high in protein and low in carbs, making it perfect for those adhering to paleo or low-carb diets.

How to Store the Leftovers?

After you’ve enjoyed this satisfying meal, storing leftovers is simple:

1. Cool Completely: Let the jambalaya cool down before transferring it to an airtight container.
2. Refrigerate: You can store it in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
3. Freeze: For longer storage, put portions in freezer-safe containers, where they can last for up to three months.
4. Reheat: Simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Sides for Healthy Jambalaya Whole30 Low Carb Paleo

Looking for sides to complement your jambalaya? Here are some delicious options!

Grilled Asparagus
Simply toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper; grill them until tender. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the jambalaya.

Keto Garlic Bread
Make keto-friendly garlic bread using almond flour for a low-carb treat. The warm, buttery flavor is a hit!

Spinach Salad
A fresh spinach salad with walnuts and strawberries dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch to your meal.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Seasoned and roasted Brussels sprouts add an earthy crunch. Their natural sweetness works well with the spices of the jambalaya.

Alternative Choices for the Ingredients

Sometimes, you might find yourself lacking some ingredients. Here are alternatives you can use:

Riced Broccoli
If you can’t find riced cauliflower, riced broccoli is an excellent low-carb alternative with a slightly different bite.

Different Sausage
If chicken-apple sausage isn’t available, opt for turkey sausage or any compliant option.

Canned Tomatoes
If fire-roasted diced tomatoes are absent, regular diced tomatoes work too. For added smokiness, mix in a bit of smoked paprika.

Broth Variants
If chicken broth isn’t on hand, vegetable broth or even shrimp stock will work, giving a unique twist to the flavor.

Conclusion

There you have it—a hearty bowl of healthy jambalaya that embraces your Whole30, low-carb, and paleo lifestyle without skimping on taste. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. 

Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying leftovers for lunch, it’s sure to impress. I encourage you to give this recipe a try! You’ll find it’s easier to whip up than traditional jambalaya yet continues to capture that beloved spice and warmth. Happy cooking!

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