These 21 dishes won’t let carbs steal the spotlight

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Looking to keep carbs on the sidelines? These 21 dishes know how to steal the show without a crumb out of place. Perfect for those who want all the enjoyment and none of the carb overload, each one brings its own twist to the table—no filler needed! They’re crowd-pleasers that leave no one missing the usual carb suspects. Try these once, and good luck keeping them out of your rotation.

Canned corned beef hash on a plate with a fried egg.
Corned Beef Hash. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re after something that feels like a hug in a bowl, look no further. Authentic Hungarian Goulash is a staple that doesn’t let carbs steal the show but ensures you’re pleasantly full. With a rich history and an even richer taste, it’s like a trip to Eastern Europe without needing a passport. It’s all about the hearty satisfaction without letting heavy sides weigh you down.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you need a meal that’s both effortless and without carb overload, Mediterranean Chicken Bake has you covered. It’s the kind of dish that brings the seaside closer to your table without the need for a plane ticket. Think less about the carbs and more about the juicy enjoyment with every bite. Plus, it’s versatile enough for a chill dinner at home or something to impress guests.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole in a baking dish.
Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Ever wanted the comfort of a cheeseburger without the bun-induced coma afterward? Cheeseburger Casserole is the hero we’ve all been waiting for. It packs all the punchy flavors of your favorite burger but in a cozy, fork-friendly format. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re craving something familiar but with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a no-fuss, easy-peasy lunch that skips the carbs without skimping on taste, Old Fashioned Ham Salad is a go-to. Whether it’s for a light lunch or a protein-packed snack, this dish fits the bill. It’s straightforward and doesn’t try to be more than it is: simply good food. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, no waste here!
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Turkey Vegetable Soup

Two bowls of turkey and vegetable soup with spoons.
Turkey Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Cold or just in need of a comforting meal? Turkey Vegetable Soup is like a cozy blanket in edible form. This dish is all about the simple pleasures; letting you enjoy a hearty meal without worrying about carb overload. It’s a killer way to get your veggies in and perfect for meal prepping too.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Vegetable Soup

Roasted Radishes

Roasted radishes in a white dish with a fork.
Roasted Radishes. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you haven’t given Roasted Radishes a chance yet, you’re missing out. They’re an unexpected star: deliciously mellow when cooked and a brilliant side that doesn’t lead you down Carb Lane. It’s about flipping the script on traditional sides and giving the spotlight to something new. Bonus: they’re ridiculously easy to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Radishes

The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Who doesn’t love a good fast food hack at home? The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl brings that crave-worthy taste right into your kitchen without the extra carbs. It’s all the good bits of a Taco Bell run without leaving your house or the heavy feeling afterward. Great for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week.
Get the Recipe: The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Light, refreshing, and oh-so-simple, Cucumber Salad with Feta is the side dish you didn’t know you needed. It’s perfect for those days when you need something quick and without the carb-heavy aftermath. It complements just about any main and takes practically no time to throw together. Talk about efficiency and taste hand in hand.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced turkey breast on a white plate with sprigs of thyme.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Got an air fryer and not sure what to make? Air Fryer Turkey Breast is a game changer when you’re trying to keep things light and easy. Not only does it cook in a fraction of the time, but it also ensures you’re not loading up on carbs. It’s a win-win: juicy turkey without the hassle or the carb count.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Mediterranean Salmon

A plate of Greek salmon with grape tomatoes and olives.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a dish that brings the freshness of the ocean without drowning in carbs, Mediterranean Salmon is a smart pick. It’s all about simple ingredients coming together to create something that’s both nourishing and easy on the carbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love salmon?
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Taking a trip down memory lane, Vintage Chicken Divan is an old-school classic that refuses to go out of style. It’s shoulder to shoulder with comfort food but without the usual carb suspects tagging along. This dish proves you can still have your favorites without the carb-heavy side effects. A great choice for a cozy family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Oven Baked Ribs

Pieces of oven bake ribs on a black slate plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving something meaty without the carb sidekick? Oven Baked Ribs have you covered with their fall-off-the-bone tenderness. It’s about enjoying that slow-cooked flavor without worrying about the carb count. Ideal for when you’ve got time to let the oven do its thing and want a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you’re itching for something light but filled with diverse textures and tastes, Chinese Chicken Salad is the answer. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a salad that’s far from boring and still keeps carbs in check. It’s good enough to be a meal on its own, especially when you’re looking for something refreshing. A true testament to how salads should be: flavorful and fulfilling without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Avocado Toast

Avocado Toast on a chaffle.
Avocado Toast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Yes, we all know Avocado Toast took the world by storm, and for good reason. It’s simple, it’s filling, and best of all, customizable to keep carbs at arm’s length. Whether it’s for breakfast, a quick lunch, or a snack, it fits the bill perfectly. Plus, let’s be real, it’s downright delicious without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bringing bold flavors without loading up on carbs, Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is your ticket. It’s all about long, slow cooking times for maximum juiciness and flavor infusion. Perfect for anyone wanting to prep a week’s worth of meals or for a dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. And honestly, who isn’t a fan of a little Mexican cuisine flair without the fuss?
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you’re looking for something that screams fresh and easy, Horiatiki Salad is your guy. This genuine Greek salad skips all the heavy stuff and focuses on what matters—freshness and simplicity. It’s the kind of dish that proves sometimes less really is more, especially when you’re keeping an eye on carbs. Plus, it pairs well with just about anything.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Birria de Res

Two white bowls filled with slow cooker birria garnished with fresh lime wedges.
Birria de Res. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’ve never had Birria de Res, you’re in for a treat. It’s a traditional Mexican dish that’s big on taste and low on carbs, making it a solid choice for meal times. Expect a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for sharing. Or, you know, not sharing—no judgment here.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving something from your favorite chain restaurant but not the carbs that usually come with it? Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken hits all the right notes. It’s a way to bring that beloved restaurant taste home without the accompanying carb count. Great for a cozy night in when comfort food is on the agenda but keeping it light is still the game.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Baked Pesto Salmon

Salmon with spinach sauce on a white plate.
Baked Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Searching for a dish that merges easy prep with not overdosing on carbs? Baked Pesto Salmon is where it’s at. It’s the kind of meal that feels special without a ton of effort or a heavy carb load. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a simple, yet exquisite dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate with seasoned asparagus and diced chicken topped with herbs. A halved grilled lemon and fresh parsley are nearby on a white floral tablecloth.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a protein-packed snack or a main that doesn’t drown you in carbs, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are clutch. They’re all about big taste in a small package, making them perfect for parties, snacking, or adding onto a lighter meal. It’s about getting that satisfying feeling without feeling weighed down by carbs. And let’s be honest, who can say no to anything garlic butter?
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Corned Beef Hash

Canned corned beef hash on a plate with a fried egg.
Corned Beef Hash. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Corned Beef Hash is a robust dish that brings comfort food to the table without letting carbs take over. This dish is a classic, ensuring you get all the satisfaction without feeling like you’ve overdone it. It’s perfect for those mornings when you want something substantial to start the day. Plus, it doubles as a fantastic brunch option when you’re feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Hash

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