19 ways to navigate low-carb waters with flavor as your compass

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Navigating low-carb options can feel like a maze, but with these 19 ideas, there’s no getting lost. Each recipe offers something different, ensuring your meals stay interesting while you keep your goals in sight. From simple, quick options to creative dishes, this collection makes low-carb choices feel more like a treat than a task. Who said sticking to a plan had to be boring?

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.

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

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

If you’re in the mood for something that packs a punch while keeping it low on the carbs, then Authentic Hungarian Goulash is your go-to. It’s a hearty choice that brings comfort food to a new level without weighing you down. The spices blend perfectly to create a dish that’s both inviting and fulfilling, and best of all, it does so without the heavy load of carbs. It’s like getting a hug from your meal without the extra baggage.
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.

Mediterranean Chicken Bake throws in a unique twist by bringing the sunny vibes of the Mediterranean straight to your plate. This dish knows how to merge natural goodness with a fulfilling meal, perfect for those evenings when you want something easy but don’t want to compromise on health. Bold but balanced, this one-skillet wonder will have everyone hooked from the first bite. And hey, it’s a breeze to clean up after.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

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

When you’re looking to remix your lunch routine, Old Fashioned Ham Salad comes through as a classic that’s both versatile and straightforward. Whether you’re spreading it on a slice of low-carb toast or scooping it up with veggies, it brings a nostalgic yet refreshing twist. It’s got all the hallmarks of a picnic classic without any of the fuss or muss. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers into something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in a bowl.
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are pretty much a game changer for anyone looking to cut down on carbs without giving up the good stuff. The air fryer does an incredible job of giving these meatballs a delicious outer crisp while keeping them juicy on the inside. They work as a standalone snack, a topping for salads, or a side that complements just about any main course. And the best part? Minimal oil means it’s all pleasure and no regrets.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Sausage Parmigiana

Sausage Parmigiana on a white plate with a red napkin and a glass of wine.
Sausage Parmigiana. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This dish is for those times you want a bit of Italian flair without crossing the line into carb overload. This cheesy, saucy delight hits all the right notes for comfort food but keeps things in check for a low-carb diet. Sausage Parmigiana is a crowd-pleaser for dinners and is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. You might not be in Italy, but your kitchen will sure feel like it.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Parmigiana

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you haven’t tried Chicken Paprikash, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. This dish brings a bit of Eastern European charm to your dinner table, with a rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken that practically falls off the bone. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly evening, food-style. Whoever said comfort food can’t be low carb clearly never had this dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Garlic Steak & Mushrooms

A white plate with garlic steak bites and mushrooms on it.
Garlic Steak & Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Looking for something that’s easy to whip up after a long day? Garlic Steak & Mushrooms might just be the winner. This dish is all about big, bold tastes without the hassle, and it pairs well with just about any low-carb side. It’s the kind of meal that looks fancy without all the effort, making it perfect for weeknights or when you want to impress someone special.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Steak & Mushrooms

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When you need something light yet comforting, Chicken Zoodle Soup is the answer. It’s a twist on the classic chicken noodle soup, swapping out the noodles for zucchini “noodles” and it’s both nourishing and fulfilling. Perfect for those days when you need a little food for the soul without the extra carbs. It’s a warm, inviting bowl of goodness that’ll make you feel right at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Cucumber Salad with Feta

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

Cucumber Salad with Feta is your best friend for a quick, refreshing side that goes with just about anything. It’s crisp, it’s fresh, and the feta adds just the right amount of creaminess without overpowering. This is the kind of side that keeps things cool and balanced, especially when you’re turning up the heat with the main course. And talk about easy to prepare—it’s ready in a snap.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Beef & Broccoli

Beef and broccoli stir-fry with sesame seeds served on a white plate with chopsticks.
Beef & Broccoli. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This dish is a classic that needs no introduction. Stir-fried to perfection, it brings together savory beef and fresh broccoli in a way that’s both satisfying and light on the carbs. Beef & Broccoli is a meal that comes together quickly for a weeknight dinner, and it packs a flavorful punch that’ll keep you coming back for more. Perfect for when you’re craving takeout but want to keep it healthy.
Get the Recipe: Beef & Broccoli

Cream of Mushroom Soup

A white bowl of soup with mushrooms and chives.
Cream of Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Sometimes, nothing beats a good, comforting bowl of soup, and Cream of Mushroom Soup stands out as a shining example. Rich, creamy, yet entirely low-carb, this soup is a go-to for cozy evenings in. It’s a blend of earthy mushrooms and creamy textures that envelops you in warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Who knew staying low-carb could feel so indulgent?
Get the Recipe: Cream of Mushroom Soup

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.

Salad might get a bad rap sometimes, but Chinese Chicken Salad breaks the mold by being as exciting as it is healthy. It’s packed with crunch and tender chicken, tossed in a tangy, unforgettable dressing. This salad manages to be both refreshing and filling without loading up on carbs. It’s the perfect meal for when you want to keep things light but refuse to compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Beef Goulash

Beef stew in a white bowl with a fork.
Beef Goulash. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Beef Goulash is another staple for those who love their dishes with a side of nostalgia. This hearty, comforting meal makes the most out of simple, wholesome ingredients to create something truly memorable. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you want something to warm you up from the inside out. Best of all, it keeps things low-carb, proving that you can have your goulash and eat it too.
Get the Recipe: Beef Goulash

Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Mediterranean Chopped Salad with crumbled feta cheese, on a yellow plate with flower designs.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re after something that will brighten up your meal without weighing you down, Mediterranean Chopped Salad is a burst of sunshine on a plate. It’s all about fresh veggies, a hit of protein, and a light, tangy dressing that ties it all together. This salad is proof that eating healthy doesn’t mean skimping on taste or texture. It’s a vibrant addition to any meal or just as fantastic on its own.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

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.

Vintage Chicken Divan brings back a classic without any carb-heavy baggage. This casserole combines chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce that’s comforting without being too heavy. It’s the kind of dish that makes a regular weeknight feel a bit more special. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still appealing to the whole family.
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.

This recipe is for those days when you’re craving something meaty. Slow-cooked to perfection, these Oven Baked Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor. They’re the perfect choice for a low-carb feast, making you forget you’re watching your carb intake at all. Break out the napkins; this is going to be a hands-on delight.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Horiatiki Salad

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

For a fresh, light side that’s a departure from the usual, Horiatiki Salad is a standout. This Greek classic eschews lettuce for a crunchy, fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, all dressed in a simple, flavorful dressing. It’s like a mini-vacation to the Mediterranean with every bite, brightening up your meal without the heavy lifting. And hey, it’s as good looking as it is good for you.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Mediterranean Salmon

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

Mediterranean Salmon is where it’s at if you’re looking for a dish that’s both nourishing and will keep your carb count in check. Oven-baked with a mix of spices, it’s juicy, flaky, and full-on delicious. This dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or bland. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

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.

Lastly, for a taste of the down under without leaving your kitchen, Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken is a must-try. This recipe nails the balance between savory chicken, rich cheese, and just the right touch of mushrooms and bacon. It’s like hitting the jackpot for anyone looking to keep it interesting while sticking to their low-carb goals. It’s so good, you’ll be tempted to make it a regular on your menu.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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