I didn’t think low-carb could taste this good—then I tried these 19 winners

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Low-carb gets a bad rap, but these 19 recipes are out to change minds. They’re easy, full of flavor, and somehow don’t leave you raiding the fridge an hour later. Great for weeknights or when you want something solid without loading up on carbs. Even the “just one bite” people keep coming back for more. Turns out skipping the bread doesn’t mean skipping the good stuff.

Oven Baked Ribs with cooked onions on a black rectangular slate platter, set on a wooden surface. A floral-patterned cloth is partially visible in the background.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Horiatiki Salad

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

Ever been pleasantly surprised by how simple ingredients come together to create something unexpectedly amazing? That’s exactly what happens here. Each bite offers a crispy freshness that’s hard to beat, especially if you’re looking for something light yet fulfilling. Without a doubt, Horiatiki Salad breaks the mold by offering simplicity and flavor in one go.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with vintage chicken divan and a fork dishing up one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Without relying on heavy carbs, it achieves a creamy, satisfying essence that warms you right up. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause and appreciate the rich, layered flavors with each spoonful. Whip this up when you’re in the mood for something that feels like a warm hug. Remember those classic dishes that grandma used to make? Well, Vintage Chicken Divan brings that comfort and nostalgia right to your table.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta on a white plate.
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

By combining them with just the right touches, Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta emerges as a star side dish. It brings a tasty twist to your plate, offering a smart way to reduce waste while enjoying something delicious. It’s proof that with a bit of creativity, even the less obvious ingredients can shine. Plus, it’s a conversation starter about how delicious and versatile low-carb options can be.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Korean Galbi Ribs

Korean Galbi Ribs on a slate platter with red chopsticks beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

These ribs are all about the rich, indulgent flavors that make you forget you’re eating low-carb. When you crave something that’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, Korean Galbi Ribs have got you covered. They’re perfect for those days when you want to treat yourself to something special without the carb overload. The magical blend of tastes ensures that every bite is memorable, making it a favorite for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi 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.

If you’re seeking a meal that’s as vibrant to look at as it is to eat, Chinese Chicken Salad will not disappoint. It’s a beautiful mix of crunchy, tangy, and sweet, all wrapped up in a light yet filling dish. Ideal for lunch or a quick dinner, it satisfies the need for something substantial without weighing you down. This salad is a testament to how thoughtfully paired ingredients can create a standout meal.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Al Pastor Carnitas

Al Pastor Carnitas in a white bowl with tongs.
Al Pastor Carnitas. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

These Al Pastor Carnitas are for those evenings when you want a meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture. This dish proves that you can have the best of both worlds: a decadent, meaty experience that’s still on the lighter side. It’s a culinary adventure that brings a delicious twist to your dinner routine. A perfect pick for when you’re hosting or simply treating yourself, it’s all about enjoying rich tastes without any of the carb guilt.
Get the Recipe: Al Pastor Carnitas

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest dishes that leave the biggest impact, and Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken is a shining example. This dish offers the perfect harmony of flavors, making it a reliable go-to for any meal. Whether it’s a part of a bigger spread or the star of the show, it consistently delivers on both taste and health. It’s for nights when you want something straightforward yet utterly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Cucumber Salad with Feta

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

This salad is ideal for a quick side dish or a healthy snack when you’re short on time. For those times you desire something light that will still tick all the boxes, Cucumber Salad with Feta steps up. It’s crisp, refreshing, and effortlessly combines simplicity with a punch of flavor. It’s proof positive that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something that’s both nutritious and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Dutch Oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch Oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever wanted to impress with minimal effort? Dutch Oven Carnitas is your answer. This dish does the heavy lifting for you, transforming simple components into a feast. It’s all about the slow cook, yielding tender, flavorful bites that make every meal a celebration. Perfect for gatherings, it invites everyone to tuck in and enjoy a communal dining experience that’s rich in taste and light on carbs.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Carnitas

Turkey Vegetable Soup

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

This Turkey Vegetable Soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. It’s all about enjoying each spoonful and appreciating the subtle blend of flavors. This dish is a great reminder that eating healthily doesn’t mean sacrificing depth and richness. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you need something to warm you up from the inside. Plus, it makes meal prep a breeze, offering a gratifying solution that’s wholesome and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Vegetable Soup

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A white plate with Salisbury steak topped with mushroom gravy on mashed potatoes, accompanied by a side of green peas.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving that diner comfort food but not the carbs that usually come with it? Diner Style Salisbury Steak has got you covered. It’s all the flavors you love, made in a way that fits right into a low-carb lifestyle. This dish is a nod to the classics, proving you can enjoy your favorites in a healthier way. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it’s everything you need for a fulfilling meal without the heaviness.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Roasted Radishes

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

If you’ve never thought to roast radishes, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Roasted Radishes offer a unique take on a familiar vegetable, turning it into something completely new and exciting. This dish is a fantastic way to shake up your side dish game, pairing well with virtually any main. It’s about discovering new favorites and pushing the boundaries of traditional low-carb meals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Radishes

Corned Beef Hash

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

Who says you can’t have your hash and eat it too, carb-conscious friends? Corned Beef Hash reimagines a breakfast favorite in a way that’s both gratifying and smart. It’s the perfect mix of hearty and hearty, delivering a strong flavor punch that sets the tone for the day ahead. Great for weekend brunches, it makes waking up something to look forward to. Plus, it goes to show that classic dishes can be adapted in health-friendly ways.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Hash

Avocado Toast

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

Yes, Avocado Toast can still be on the menu in a low-carb world. This dish has become synonymous with modern eating for good reason. It’s versatile, delicious, and packs in a ton of nutrients without weighing you down. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even a quick snack, it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create powerhouse meals. And let’s admit, it’s also incredibly Instagram-worthy.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Low-Carb Skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta

Low-carb skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta in a black skillet, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley.
Low-Carb Skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When dinner time calls for something that looks and tastes like it took hours but didn’t, Low-Carb Skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta is your hero. This dish combines tangy, tasty, and creamy in one skillet, offering a balance of flavors that’s hard to resist. It’s the kind of meal that makes you proud to serve, ensuring everyone comes back for seconds. Plus, it keeps things light, proving that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated.
Get the Recipe: Low-Carb Skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta

Coleslaw

A bowl of coleslaw with vegetables and a fork.
Coleslaw. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those BBQs or family dinners where you need a trusty side dish, Coleslaw is always a winner. It’s crisp, tangy, and adds the perfect crunch to your meal. This version takes the classic and tweaks it to fit within a low-carb lifestyle, without sacrificing any of the tastes you know and love. It’s a staple for a reason, easily adapting to any meal needing a fresh, vibrant accompaniment.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw

Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken

Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken garnished with parsley is served on a slate platter with yellow peppers.
Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This dish showcases that bold flavors and low-carb can go hand in hand effortlessly. When you’re in the mood for something that’s both bold and comforting, Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken steps up to the plate. It’s a dish that packs a flavorful punch, marrying tender chicken with a sauce that’ll have you mopping up every last bit. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a lazy weekend feast, it’s designed to impress without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

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

For a side dish that feels indulgent without all the carbs, Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone is a lush choice. It’s the kind of dish that has you finding excuses to add it to every meal. With just the right combination of creamy and leafy, it turns a simple green into star-status. Ideal for those meals where you want to add a touch of luxury without overdoing it, this dish marries simplicity with sophistication.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Oven Baked Ribs

Oven Baked Ribs with cooked onions on a black rectangular slate platter, set on a wooden surface. A floral-patterned cloth is partially visible in the background.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving that BBQ flavor but not all the sugar that typically comes with it? Oven Baked Ribs have you covered. These ribs are all about the slow bake, which ensures every bite is fall-off-the-bone tender. It’s the perfect dish for when you’re looking to indulge a bit but keep things in check. Rich, smoky, and utterly gratifying, it proves that you can still enjoy your BBQ favorites on a low-carb diet.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

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