OMG! 17 carb-cutting combos that’ll make your taste buds dance

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Cutting carbs doesn’t mean cutting taste. These 17 combos prove that less can be more when it comes to flavor. Packed with variety and creativity, these dishes are designed to keep things interesting while being light on the carbs. You might even find yourself pleasantly surprised by how filling and enjoyable a low-carb meal can be. Who knows, your family might even ask for seconds without realizing they’re missing the carbs!

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Zoodle Soup

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

For those seeking a comforting meal without the heavy carbs, Chicken Zoodle Soup is a warm, inviting option. It swaps out traditional noodles for spiralized zucchini, keeping things light yet hearty. Each spoonful is packed with vegetables and tender chicken, making it a solid choice for a nutritious dinner. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get your soup fix on cooler days without straying from a low-carb plan.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

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

When you’re in the mood for something rich and hearty, Authentic Hungarian Goulash delivers without loading up on carbs. This dish is centered around succulent beef and a robust paprika-infused sauce. It pairs well with a variety of low-carb sides, allowing flexibility in meal planning. Enjoy the deep, complex tastes that come together in this European classic, perfect for a fulfilling, cozy meal at home.
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.

Introduce your kitchen to the vibrant flair of Mediterranean Chicken Bake, which serves up wholesome ingredients in a single dish. Olive oil, herbs, and succulent chicken marry together under golden cheese—it’s pure comfort sans the excess carbs. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Not only does it cater to low-carb preferences, but it’s also incredibly easy to pull together for a weeknight dinner.
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.

Rekindle the charm of classic comfort foods with this Old Fashioned Ham Salad. It’s a versatile recipe that can be eaten on lettuce wraps or on its own for a quick, carb-conscious bite. Enjoy the blend of diced ham, creamy dressing, and crunchy celery that makes for a refreshing and filling lunch option. Its ease of preparation proves it to be a handy go-to for picnics and meal prep alike.
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.

If you love meatballs but want to keep things lean and mean, Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are your answer. These are made with ground turkey, yielding a lighter option, and the air fryer gives them a perfect crisp outside with a juicy center. They’re great as an entrée or can be enjoyed on a salad, making them a flexible addition to your meal rotation. What’s more, they’re quick and easy, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Egg Salad

The Best Egg Salad on the Planet.
Egg Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Egg Salad is a classic that’s stood the test of time, particularly for those watching their carbohydrate intake. It combines hard-boiled eggs with a creamy, tangy dressing for a fulfilling mouthful with each spoonful. Ideal as a sandwich filling or atop a crisp bed of greens, it’s as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for meal preps, picnics, or a simple lunch, it’s an effortless way to keep things light and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Broccoli Cheese Soup in two bowls with spoons nearby.
Broccoli Cheese Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When you’re aiming for cozy and nutritious, Broccoli Cheese Soup is your go-to bowl of goodness. This soup brings together vibrant broccoli and creamy cheese, offering comfort food without the guilt. It’s thick, indulgent, and perfect for those chilly days when you need a warm pick-me-up. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak more veggies into your day in the most delicious way possible.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Four Mediterranean Tuna Salad stuffed avocados on a white plate.
Mediterranean Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Forget the mayo-heavy versions and give Mediterranean Tuna Salad a try for a refreshing and light meal option. It mixes flaky tuna with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, serving as a protein-packed lunch that won’t weigh you down. This salad works well on its own, wrapped in lettuce, or even stuffed in an avocado. It’s a simple, healthy meal that comes together in minutes, perfect for a busy lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Cream of Mushroom Soup

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

Dig into the simplicity and richness of Cream of Mushroom Soup, which is much more than just a side dish. It’s thick, creamy, and chock-full of earthy mushrooms, providing a hearty experience that’s low on carbs but big on taste. Perfect for a standalone lunch or as an appetizer, it brings a touch of elegance to your table. You’ll find this dish to be a cozy yet classy addition to any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Mushroom Soup

King Ranch Casserole

A skillet full of chicken and vegetables in a pan.
King Ranch Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Experience a Southern favorite with King Ranch Casserole, a dish that speaks to the heart of comfort food while keeping things light on carbs. It layers chicken, cheese, and a tomato-chili sauce that packs a subtle punch. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and perfect for feeding a family without fuss. It’s one of those bake-and-enjoy meals that remind you of home with every bite.
Get the Recipe: King Ranch Casserole

Grilled Beef Finger Meat

Grilled Beef Finger Meat on a wooden cutting board.
Grilled Beef Finger Meat. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a different take on grilling, Grilled Beef Finger Meat offers thin strips of beef with a tantalizing char and bold flavors from a simple seasoning. This dish is perfect for those seeking a high-protein, low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Serve it with grilled vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal. It’s quick to cook and delivers big on satisfaction, making it ideal for those impromptu barbecue gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Beef Finger Meat

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

A plate with New Orleans BBQ Shrimp and lemon wedges, with serving utensils to the side.
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Bring some soul to your kitchen with New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, a dish that combines spice, butter, and succulent shrimp for an unforgettable meal. Despite what the name suggests, this dish isn’t grilled but sautéed in a decadent, spiced butter sauce. It’s perfect over cauliflower rice or with a side of asparagus, making it a go-to for a flavorful, low-carb dinner. This Southern favorite is perfect for any occasion or a weekend treat!
Get the Recipe: New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

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.

Mediterranean Chopped Salad is a colorful and crisp dish that’s a testament to simplicity. It’s loaded with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olives, creating a refreshing salad that’s hearty enough to stand as a main dish. This salad is extremely adaptable—toss it with grilled chicken or fish for added protein. It’s a fuss-free dish, perfect for meal prep or a quick, healthy dinner after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

A plate of sliced grilled steak topped with a green herb sauce, served on a white rectangular dish.
Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For those who enjoy the robust taste of steak, Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri offers a tantalizing option. The meat is tender and flavorful, made even better with a vibrant chimichurri sauce drizzled on top. This dish is a wonderful choice for a low-carb diet, providing plenty of proteins. It’s equally suitable for a quiet dinner at home or as the centerpiece of your next outdoor grilling event.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

Horiatiki Salad

Horiatiki Salad with feta cheese on top served on a plate.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Horiatiki Salad is a staple in Greek dining and a meal that captures the essence of a Mediterranean diet. This dish is known for its combination of juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and a generous slice of feta cheese. It’s light, refreshing, and does not require any fancy dressing—just a good drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. This salad is a simple, healthy taste of the Greek isles in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce with pita dipped in a black bowl.
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

The cooling effect of Authentic Tzatziki Sauce is unmatched, making it an excellent complement to a variety of dishes. It combines grated cucumber with Greek yogurt, garlic, and herbs to create a refreshing dip or spread. This versatile sauce is great drizzled over grilled meats or as a tangy accompaniment to raw vegetables. It’s a stress-free way to add some pizzazz to your meals without adding any extra carbs.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Tomato Bruschetta Board

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re cutting carbs, a Tomato Bruschetta Board can be a smart choice. It’s a blend of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and olive oil that comes together for a refreshing bite. What’s great is that you can get creative with your veggies and swap out bread for alternatives like cucumber slices. This dish is not only kind to your carb count but also packs a punch with every mouthful.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

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