15 Best GOLO Recipes and Meals Ideas

GOLO recipes are specifically crafted meal ideas that align with the GOLO weight loss diet. Each recipe is designed to fit within a daily caloric range of 1,300 to 1,800 calories, with individual meals averaging 400 to 600 calories. This allows individuals to enjoy a variety of foods while adhering to the diet’s caloric guidelines.

GOLO recipes feature 30 categories, including Mediterranean-style meat and seafood dishes, as well as plant-based meals. They also offer specialized 2-1-2-1 meals for the GOLO Reset 7 program, appetizers, Instant Pot and pressure cooker recipes, and condiments like salad dressings, sauces, and seasonings.

Best GOLO recipes refer to the top-rated GOLO recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. With a focus on controlling sugar cravings and hunger, these recipes help you achieve your weight loss goals while enjoying satisfying meals. These GOLO recipes also concentrate on balanced meals that include all four food groups—proteins, vegetables, carbohydrates, and fats—aiming to increase satiety while providing essential nutrients.

The following list includes the 15 best GOLO recipes.

  1. Seaweed Salmon Bowl
  2. Autumn Chicken
  3. Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables
  4. Salmon and Asparagus
  5. Instant Pot Beef Fajita Salad
  6. Pumpkin Chili
  7. Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
  8. Blueberry Almond Smoothie
  9. Poached Egg Avocado Toast
  10. Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl
  11. Sweet Potato Casserole
  12. Honey Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Slaw
  13. Antioxidant Smoothie
  14. Thai Coconut Lime Soup
  15. Pumpkin Chili

1. Seaweed Salmon Bowl

The Seaweed Salmon Bowl is a delectable fish recipe for GOLO diet plan that incorporates a variety of flavors and textures. Starting with a base of nori seaweed, which is toasted to perfection, the bowl is then layered with succulent cooked salmon, crisp cucumbers, and creamy avocado slices.

The dressing is a harmonious blend of citrus juices, zests, brown sugar, tamari, rice vinegar, and olive oil, creating a balance between tangy, sweet, and savory. To prepare the dressing, simply combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and heat gently, taking care not to boil the mixture.

Once off the heat, the citrus zests are added for an extra burst of flavor. Assembling the bowl is a breeze: just layer the seaweed, salmon, cucumbers, and avocado, then drizzle the dressing over the top. Optionally, fresh blackberries can be added to the bowl for a fruity twist or served on the side for a burst of tart sweetness.

Finally, a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch, making this Seaweed Salmon Bowl not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced.

2. Autumn Chicken

The Autumn Chicken recipe is a delicious and nutritious GOLO meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner. It combines the flavors of fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary with the richness of chicken thighs, making each bite a burst of flavor, as shown in this photo.

golo chicken recipe

The recipe starts with marinating the chicken in a blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic, ensuring the meat is tender and flavorful. A medley of vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and carrots are tossed in olive oil and seasoned, providing a balanced and wholesome meal.

What sets this recipe apart is the addition of apple slices and uncured bacon, adding a touch of sweetness and smokiness that complements the savory chicken and vegetables. After about 30 minutes in a preheated 450°F oven, the chicken turns golden brown, and the vegetables become perfectly tender. For those who prefer a crispier skin, a few minutes under the broiler will do the trick.

Each serving contains 2 Proteins, 1 Carbohydrate, 2 Vegetables, and 1 Fat, making it a complete GOLO meal that is as satisfying as it is healthy.

3. Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables

The best GOLO chicken recipe you can try is Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables, a meal that is both delicious and balanced. Each serving contains 2 proteins, 1 carbohydrate, 2 vegetables, and 1 fat, making it a complete GOLO meal.

This photo shows GOLO Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables.

best GOLO diet chicken recipe slow cooker

The ingredients include lean chicken breast, nutrient-rich vegetables like baby potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery, as well as a blend of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. To prepare, simply add the chicken and vegetables into the slow cooker and sprinkle the seasoning and butter or olive oil on top.

Next, pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is fully submerged, and add water if necessary. Cook the mixture on low heat for 5 to 6 hours until the chicken is cooked through.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also gives you the freedom to go about your day while your slow cooker does the work. Once done, divide the dish into 4 equal servings and enjoy a hearty, GOLO-friendly meal.

4. Salmon and Asparagus

The Salmon and Asparagus dish is a perfect example of a balanced GOLO meal, featuring 2 Proteins, 1 Carbohydrate, 2 Vegetables, and 1 Fat per serving. This dish serves two and is cooked using 2 teaspoons of olive oil, split between the salmon and asparagus. This photo displays the best GOLO fish recipe – Salmon and Asparagus.

golo salmon recipe

The salmon fillets are seasoned with sea salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your taste, then baked or grilled to perfection. The asparagus is prepared using the remaining olive oil and also seasoned with sea salt and pepper before being roasted.

To add a unique twist, the recipe includes a Strawberry Salsa made from 1 cup of diced strawberries, 1/4 cup of diced red onion, and a tablespoon of finely diced, deseeded jalapeño peppers.

The salsa is then flavored with 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro leaves, lime juice, sea salt, and pepper, all to taste. The salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the salmon and asparagus.

5. Instant Pot Beef Fajita Salad

The Instant Pot Beef Fajita Salad is a delicious and nutritious GOLO-friendly meal that’s perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Each serving contains 2 Proteins, 1 Carbohydrate, 2 Vegetables, and 1 Fat, making it a complete meal as per GOLO guidelines.

Here’s the photo of GOLO beef recipe – Instant Pot Beef Fajita Salad.

golo beef salad recipe

The dish utilizes fresh ingredients like thinly sliced onion and bell pepper, as well as high-quality flank steak cut into thin strips. To season the beef, a blend of ground cumin, sea salt, chili powder, dried oregano, and minced garlic is used, providing a burst of flavors.

The cooking process is simple and quick, thanks to the use of an Instant Pot. After sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef, you add garlic and water, then cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.

Once cooked, the beef and vegetables are served atop a bed of chopped romaine lettuce and black or kidney beans. To finish, the salad is topped with fresh salsa, plain Greek yogurt, and sliced black olives, adding both flavor and texture to this satisfying meal.

6. Pumpkin Chili

The Pumpkin Chili recipe is a hearty and nutritious dish that perfectly aligns with the GOLO diet plan. Each serving contains a balanced mix of 2 proteins, 1 carbohydrate, 2 vegetables, and 1 fat, making it a complete GOLO meal.

Here’s the picture of GOLO ground beef recipe – Pumpkin Chili.

golo ground beef recipe

The recipe starts with sautéing 97% lean ground beef in olive oil, followed by the addition of onions. A unique blend of pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce forms the base of this flavorful chili.

To keep it low-carb, the recipe uses cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or pasta. The use of beans adds both protein and carbohydrates to the dish, adhering to GOLO’s dietary guidelines.

Optional ingredients like avocado slices, plain Greek yogurt, and cheese can be added for garnish and extra flavor. Simmer everything together for 10-15 minutes, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that not only tastes great but also supports your GOLO diet goals.

7. Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

The Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bowl is an excellent choice for a nutritious and satisfying GOLO breakfast, featuring a balanced blend of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. To make this dish, you’ll start by heating whole milk, butter, maple syrup, chopped apples, and a dash of cinnamon in a saucepan until warm, taking care not to let it boil.

Here’s the photo.

golo breakfast recipe

While the mixture is warming, place 1/4 cup of cooked quinoa in a bowl as your base. Once the milk and apple mixture is ready, pour it over the quinoa to infuse it with a burst of flavor and natural sweetness.

The finishing touch comes with a sprinkling of chopped pecans and hemp seeds, adding a crunchy texture and additional nutrients to the bowl. This recipe makes one serving and, according to the GOLO meal plan, contains 2 proteins, 1 carbohydrate, and 1 fat, making it a complete meal. Optional vegetables can also be added to your breakfast, but they are not required for this particular recipe.

8. Blueberry Almond Smoothie

The Blueberry Almond Smoothie is a delicious and nutritious GOLO breakfast recipe that fits perfectly into the GOLO meal plan, offering 2 proteins, 1 carbohydrate, and 1 fat per serving. Made with a combination of whole milk, almonds, chia seeds, and coconut oil, this smoothie provides a well-rounded meal to kickstart your day, as shown in this photo.

golo smoothie recipe

The half cup of blueberries not only adds a burst of flavor but also contributes essential antioxidants. A sprinkle of cinnamon and a couple of drops of vanilla extract elevate the taste and add a touch of natural sweetness without any added sugar.

This easy-to-make recipe simply requires you to blend all the ingredients until smooth, offering a quick and convenient breakfast option. You can also adjust the smoothie’s consistency by adding water to the mixture according to your preference. While the GOLO plan considers vegetables optional at breakfast, this smoothie is a complete GOLO meal on its own.

9. Poached Egg Avocado Toast

The Poached Egg Avocado Toast is an excellent choice for a balanced and nutritious GOLO lunch. This dish is packed with the right proportions of proteins, carbohydrates, vegetables, and fats, making it a complete GOLO meal.

This photo shows GOLO lunch recipe – Poached Egg Avocado Toast.

golo lunch recipe

To start, you’ll need a piece of toasted bread which you’ll top with a teaspoon of butter for that added richness. Then, spread a layer of mashed avocado on the bread, providing healthy fats and a creamy texture.

Next, place two perfectly poached eggs on top, which contribute the protein portion of the meal. Season your toast with sea salt and pepper to elevate the flavors. For those who like a little spice, a few drops of hot sauce or sriracha can add a delightful kick to this already flavorful dish.

10. Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl

The Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl is a delectable and nutritious GOLO smoothie recipe perfect for breakfast or a wholesome snack. The recipe combines the exotic flavors of dragon fruit and banana, along with the creaminess of lite coconut milk, to create a delightful blend, as shown in this photo.

best golo breakfast recipes - dragon fruit bowl

The addition of hemp hearts and chia seeds not only adds texture but also provides essential nutrients like protein and healthy fats. To make this smoothie bowl, blend together frozen dragon fruit, frozen banana, lite coconut milk, vanilla extract, and hemp hearts, adding coconut water gradually until the mixture reaches a spoonable consistency.

Once blended, the smoothie is poured into a bowl and garnished with chia seeds and optional bee pollen. Bee pollen is a superfood that offers a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, enhancing the health benefits of this already nutrient-packed meal.

This GOLO-approved recipe is balanced with 2 proteins, 1 carbohydrate, and 1 fat, making it a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is good for you.

11. Sweet Potato Casserole

The Sweet Potato Casserole is a scrumptious dinner recipe that aligns well with the GOLO diet, a plan aimed at optimizing insulin levels for weight loss and overall health. This dish is simple to prepare and requires ingredients like shredded sweet potato, apple, and a mix of aromatic spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg.

Here’s the photo of best GOLO dinner recipe – Sweet Potato Casserole.

golo dinner recipe

It begins with sautéing the shredded sweet potato in coconut oil until they soften, followed by adding apples and spices for added flavor. The mixture is then transferred to a baking dish, where whisked eggs and coconut milk are incorporated, ensuring the casserole sets properly during baking. For an optional crunch, you can sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before putting it in the oven.

The casserole bakes at 400°F for about 10 minutes, or until the eggs set and the top begins to brown. Each serving contains zero proteins, one carb, zero vegetables, and zero fats, making it a perfect fit for those following the GOLO diet’s guidelines.

12. Honey Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Slaw

The Honey Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Slaw is one of the best GOLO dinner recipes you can try. It’s not only flavorful but also nutritionally balanced, offering 2 proteins, 1 carbohydrate, 2 vegetables, and 1 fat per serving.

Here’s the photo.

golo chicken and broccoli recipe

The recipe calls for simple ingredients like 6 oz of cubed chicken breast, minced garlic, honey, olive oil, and a blend of broccoli slaw, which you can conveniently find pre-packaged at most grocery stores. To complement the meal, it includes 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa, adding both texture and valuable nutrients.

The cooking process is straightforward: you season the chicken with salt and pepper and sauté it with garlic in olive oil. After adding a teaspoon of honey, continue cooking until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

To serve, place the broccoli slaw and quinoa in a bowl, top it with the cooked chicken, and finish with a splash of tamari or soy sauce. This delicious and well-balanced GOLO meal is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste.

13. Antioxidant Smoothie

The Antioxidant Smoothie is an ideal recipe for those following the GOLO diet, as it balances protein, carbohydrates, and fats in one delicious serving.

Here’s the photo of the best GOLO smoothie recipe – delicious Antioxidant Smoothie.

best golo smoothie recipe

This refreshing beverage is made with 1-1/2 cups of coconut water, giving you a hydrating base that’s rich in electrolytes. It includes a quarter cup each of banana and frozen blueberries, providing natural sweetness and a boost of antioxidants. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil not only enriches the flavor but also gives you a healthy dose of fats.

The recipe also incorporates 3 tablespoons of chia seeds, which are an excellent source of protein and fiber. To make this smoothie a complete GOLO meal, you can add an extra serving of protein as per the diet’s guidelines.

Vegetables are optional for breakfast, but you’re free to toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients. Just combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, adding ice until you reach your desired consistency.

14. Thai Coconut Lime Soup

The Thai Coconut Lime Soup is a GOLO-friendly recipe that perfectly balances rich flavors with health-conscious ingredients. This delicious soup features a protein-packed base of cooked and shredded chicken breast, simmered in a fragrant broth of lite coconut milk and chicken stock, as shown in this photo.

golo soup recipe

The tangy kick of lime juice adds an exotic twist to the dish, making each spoonful a burst of flavor. What sets this recipe apart is the unique blend of Thai seasonings, which include curry powder, cinnamon, ground ginger, chili powder, paprika, and sea salt.

The incorporation of shredded vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and rutabaga not only enhances the soup’s texture but also contributes a full serving of vegetables per portion. This recipe yields four servings, with each serving containing two proteins, zero carbohydrates, one vegetable, and one fat, making it an excellent choice for those following the GOLO diet.

If you wish, you can garnish the soup with lime wedges and adjust the seasoning with additional sea salt and pepper to taste. Overall, this Thai Coconut Lime Soup is a culinary delight that you can enjoy without compromising your dietary goals.

15. Pumpkin Chili

This Pumpkin Chili recipe is a GOLO-friendly meal that perfectly balances proteins, carbohydrates, vegetables, and fats. With 97% lean ground beef as the protein source, this dish is both healthy and hearty.

Here’s the photo.

golo pumpkin recipe

The unique addition of pumpkin puree not only adds a seasonal twist but also contributes to the richness and nutritional content of the chili. The cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb alternative, aligning with the GOLO diet principles.

A blend of chili powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper, along with an optional dash of cinnamon, makes for a robust flavor profile that will delight your taste buds. The recipe also incorporates beans, which count as both a protein and a carbohydrate, making the meal well-rounded. Optional toppings like avocado slices, plain Greek yogurt, cheese, and sliced green onions add extra taste and texture, allowing for customization to your preference.

Not only is this Pumpkin Chili easy to prepare with a cooking time of just 10-15 minutes, but it also yields six servings, making it ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.

What are the best GOLO-friendly recipes available for meal delivery?

The best GOLO-friendly recipes available for meal delivery include “When Steak Met Potatoes and Creamed Kale with Peppercorn Sauce,” which is a gluten-free meal containing 525 kcal and takes only 30 minutes to prepare. For a broader selection of GOLO-friendly options, you may want to explore meal delivery services that specifically offer GOLO-compatible meals.

What are the best food delivery options for the GOLO diet?

The 5 best GOLO food delivery options are listed below.

  1. Clean Eatz Kitchen
  2. EveryPlate
  3. Factor
  4. Green Chef
  5. HelloFresh