19 low-carb recipes that taste like they should be illegal

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Some things in life just seem too good to be true, and these 19 low-carb meals fall right into that category. They’re the kind of dishes that make people question whether they count as low-carb because food this good usually comes with a catch. No complicated tricks, just bold flavors that make the usual carb-heavy options look like amateurs. If cutting carbs always tasted like this, nobody would ever feel like they were missing out.

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

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.

Bringing together rich flavors in a dish that’s surprisingly low in carbs is a smart twist for your meal plans. Kick off a dinner with Birria de Res, which turns an ordinary evening into a special occasion without all the carbs. Let yourself be swept away by every succulent bite, infused with traditional spices. Sharing this with friends might make you the talk of the town, but enjoying it alone is just as rewarding – no judgment here!
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

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

Picture your skillet bubbling with a dish that whisks you away to the sunny Mediterranean coast. Midway through the week, Mediterranean Chicken Bake can be that mini escape you crave without a dent in your health-conscious diet. Great for meal prepping or as a one-pan wonder, this recipe brings convenience to your kitchen. Gather around the table for this one; it’s bound to become a repeating favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

German Pork Loin

German Pork Loin on a platter with a gravy boat nearby.
German Pork Loin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever crave something hearty yet need to keep an eye on your carb intake? Indulge in a comfort dish sized down on carbs but not on flavor with German Pork Loin. This is perfect for those nights when the air is crisp and you need a substantial dinner. Invite some company, because dishes like this are meant to be enjoyed with good conversation and laughter.
Get the Recipe: German Pork Loin

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers

Five cooked Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers served on a white rectangular dish, garnished with chopped herbs.
Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

We all know that life can get hectic, but dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. Set up your Crock Pot in the morning and come home to Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers – a meal that practically cooks itself. It’s the kind of homestyle cooking that fills the room with mouth-watering aromas. Best part? It’s packing flavor without the carbs!
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers

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.

There’s something about a warm, spicy dish that just feels like a hug in a bowl. Make any evening special with Chicken Paprikash, offering that comforting vibe while keeping things low-carb. This dish is ideal for family dinners where you want to please the crowd but stick to your meal goals. And it’s bound to prompt requests for seconds – you’ve been warned.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Steakhouse Creamed Spinach

Steakhouse Creamed Spinach in a black dish on a cloth.
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Who says you need to go out to a steakhouse to get that indulgent side dish experience? With Steakhouse Creamed Spinach, you’re not just cutting back on carbs, you’re also treating yourself to a restaurant-level dish at home. It’s a side that complements any main and doesn’t let you miss the carbs even for a second. Go ahead and make it a staple on your menu; your taste preferences will thank you.
Get the Recipe: Steakhouse Creamed Spinach

Mexican Cauliflower Rice

A plate of Mexican Cauliflower Rice garnished with cilantro, served with a lime wedge. Fresh tomatoes and cilantro are visible in the background.
Mexican Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Subbing staple grains for veggies is a trend for a reason, it’s a game-changer for low-carb diets. Mexican Cauliflower Rice transforms an everyday side into a festive and flavorful experience. It’s perfect for taco Tuesdays, or really, any day you want to add some pizzazz to your plate. Serve it up and watch as it becomes an instant hit at the table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice

Garlic Chicken Skillet

Garlic Chicken Skillet with peppers and asparagus on a white plate.
Garlic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those days when you want to whip up something quick without fussing over a recipe, Garlic Chicken Skillet has got your back. This dish is all about the joys of simple, flavor-packed cooking that’s friendly to your carb-conscious lifestyle. It’s an excellent pick for getting dinner on the table fast, and the flavors meld together like they’ve been cooking all day. Trust that leftovers, if any, will be fought over!
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

An image of Tex-Mex Caesar Salad on a square plate.
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine a classic salad but with a twist that takes it to a whole new level. Tex-Mex Caesar Salad is that exciting turn – a refreshing yet robust dish that suits any low-carb diet without compromising the fun in your food. It’s a great way to kickstart a meal or stand alone as the main event. Either way, it’s a win on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Three pork chops with tomato and green onion on a white plate.
Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Your dinner needs something that sings with freshness yet embraces low-carb living. Enter Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish, a meal that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for your health goals. The relish brings a pop of color and flavor that perfectly complements the pork. It’s a straightforward dish for a busy weeknight yet fancy enough for guests.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone in a black dish.
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Believe it or not, a side dish can steal the show when it’s as good as this. Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone turns a green leafy staple into a creamy paradise, all while keeping it low-carb. It’s a luscious addition to any meal that will have everyone asking for the recipe. And it pairs with just about anything, so get creative!
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Southern Ham Salad

A bowl of Southern ham salad and a plate of croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a nostalgic classic that comes with a side of low-carb goodness. Southern Ham Salad is the perfect way to use up leftover ham, transforming it into a wonderful dish that stands out in a spread. It’s versatile, so you can enjoy it on a bed of greens or by itself. Expect it to be the unexpected star of your gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Oven-roasted asparagus on a bed of mascarpone, topped with toasted garlic, nuts, and lemon zest, served on a black slate platter.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It’s not every day that a side dish makes you sit up and take notice. Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone does just that, offering a smoky, creamy experience that’s effortlessly low in carbs. This dish is a testament to how something so simple can be so impressive. Plus, it’s the perfect way to get more greens on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Balance is key in any meal, and Smoked Chicken Al Pastor hits that sweet spot between smoky and tangy while keeping carbs in check. It’s a bold choice for those looking to break the monotony of regular chicken dishes. Get ready for a protein-rich dinner that’ll keep you coming back for more. Just fire up the grill and let the magic happen.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

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

Sometimes the old ways are the best ways, and Old Fashioned Ham Salad is proof of that. This dish makes a comeback with a low-carb twist, giving you a delicious reason to skip the bread. It’s great for meal prep or as a quick snack. And yes, it tastes just as good as you remember, if not better.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon.
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want something that’s got a little bit of tang and a touch of sweetness, Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon comes to the rescue. This dish provides a unique twist on traditional sides, introducing a flavorful low-carb option to your plate. It’s an unexpected combo that just works, proving that sometimes the most unusual pairings are the ones you end up loving the most.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Grilled Steak skewers on a white plate with chilis nearby.
Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Grilling season or not, there’s no need to wait for warmer weather to enjoy good barbecue. Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo bring sizzling goodness to your table with a side of low-carb satisfaction. This dish is all about that robust flavor that makes you forget you’re eating healthfully. It’s perfect for a weekend treat or a dinner party with friends.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re in the mood for something that packs a punch, Chicken Tinga should be on your menu. This dish is not only low in carbs, but it’s also loaded with a depth of flavor that makes it stand out in any meal lineup. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat and a lot of taste. And the best part? Leftovers make great toppings for salads or stuffed peppers for the next day’s lunch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

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

Cozy up with a classic comfort dish that agrees with your low-carb diet. Authentic Hungarian Goulash offers a warm, hearty meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. It’s ideal for those chilly evenings where you want something satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your loved ones to a taste of traditional Hungarian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

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