No grains, no dairy. No sugar or soy. No legumes. No alcohol. I know what you’re thinking. A Whole30 Valentine’s Dinner doesn’t sound like much fun. That’s what I was thinking. I mean, really, what’s the point of life without dessert?

I was pretty apprehensive about starting our Whole30 during February, but except for maybe July, this seemed to be the month with the least temptations or events that might throw us off. When I really thought about it, I realized all the good stuff is still there. So I can’t have gratin potatoes. But I can still have slow cooked short ribs on a bed of creamy (dairy-free) mashed potatoes. And maybe no chocolate. But I can still treat myself to a bowl of sweet berries, maybe with a splash of almond milk or dusting of coconut flakes to make it more special.

What I especially love about the Whole30 is it’s not a “diet” that starves you, cutting out essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a science experiment, to see what foods your body processes best. It encourages you to eat whole foods, and plenty of (good) fat. All the major components are there–meat, fish and vegetables. Add some spices, balsamic vinegar and you’re pretty set.

For our Valentine’s dinner, we’ll be having pan seared duck breast in a balsamic cherry sauce with roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon. For extra inspiration, I’ve rounded up some of the tastiest Whole30 meals I could find.

Sweet & Savory Brussels Sprouts | Brooklyn Locavore

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Shrimp & Asparagus Salad | Recipe.com

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Balsamic & Rosemary Chicken | Primal Palate

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Lemon Herb Marinated Pork Loin | Brooklyn Locavore

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Chocolate Coffee Rubbed Steak with Coconut | Food Faith Fitness

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Cranberry-Crusted Chateaubriand | Kitchen Confidante (skip the sugar)

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Slow-Cooker Korean Grass Fed Short Ribs | Nom Nom Paleo

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Pan-Roasted Duck Legs with Black Cherry Sauce | Pastured Kitchen (substitute the ghee for butter)

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What’s your favorite Whole30 or Paleo “special” meal?