Categories
Food

Keto at Panera: 17 Low-Carb, Keto-Friendly Meals to Order, Vetted by a Nutritionist

You used to make a beeline to Panera Bread at lunchtime for a mac and cheese bread bowl. But now that you’re on the keto diet, your order needs some adjusting. Certain produce items (like beans and corn salsa) and condiments (like barbecue sauce) pack a carb-loaded punch, since they contain starches and sugars that translate to higher carbs. The biggest issue will be the bread—whether in sandwich, bowl or crouton form—since it’s too high in carbs to keep you in ketosis.

While the website for this keto-friendly restaurant has all its nutrition information listed, it doesn’t allow you to modify menu items, so you may have to do a bit of guesswork to determine the net carbs of your adjusted meal. Nevertheless, it’s totally possible to eat keto at Panera Bread—with a few helpful tweaks. Here are 17 low-carb, keto-friendly menu items to put on your list, plus tips from an expert on maintaining a keto diet.

(Note: The nutrition info that follows each menu item doesn’t account for modifications. Prices may vary by location and region.)

Related: Panera Bread Just Launched 2 New Ciabatta Dippers—Here’s a Food Editor’s Honest Review

Meet Our Expert Dietitian, Nutritionist and Exercise Physiologist

Dr. Felicia Stoler, DCN, is a registered dietitian, nutritionist and exercise physiologist. She’s the author of Living Skinny in Fat Genes: The Healthy Way to Lose Weight and Feel Great and the former host of TLC’s Honey, We’re Killing the Kids.

17 Keto-Friendly, Low-Carb Meals at Panera

Keto Breakfasts at Panera

1. Chipotle Chicken, Egg & Avo Sandwich (No Bread)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/chipotle-chicken-egg-and-avo-sandwich.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/chipotle-chicken-egg-and-avo-sandwich.html

  • Nutrition Information: 550 calories, 30g fat, 44g carbs, 27g protein, 3g sugar, 4g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $6.59

On keto, you’ll need to nix the bread or wrap for every sandwich on the menu. While this is theoretically good for your diet, Stoler reminds us that it potentially creates food waste, and you’ll likely still pay full price for less food. Nevertheless, it’s doable if you’re willing.

This mix of smoked pulled chicken, scrambled egg, aged white cheddar, zesty sweet peppers, avocado, cilantro and chipotle aioli will help you kick the day off with energy and a full belly. You can even add bacon for extra protein and fat.

Panera Bread

2. Greek Yogurt with Mixed Berries Parfait

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/greek-yogurt-with-mixed-berries-parfait.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/greek-yogurt-with-mixed-berries-parfait.html

  • Nutrition Information: 240 calories, 8g fat, 27g carbs, 15g protein, 17g sugar, 2g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for the granola on the side and no honey
  • Price: $5.69

You may have thought the steel-cut oatmeal with strawberries and pecans was a better option for keto eaters, but the sugary-sweet cinnamon crunch topping ups the carbs considerably (and it might taste a tad bland without it). Greek yogurt topped with whole-grain oat maple butter pecan granola and fruit offers lean protein, nutrients and energy, plus probiotics. Asking for the carby granola on the side may help you moderate how much of it you actually eat, as opposed to mixing it all into the high-protein vegetarian meal from the start. Add extra pecans for a boost of protein and healthy fat.

Panera Bread

3. Garden Avo & Egg White Sandwich (No Bagel)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/garden-avo-and-egg-white-sandwich.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/garden-avo-and-egg-white-sandwich.html

  • Nutrition Information: 340 calories, 14g fat, 36g carbs, 19g protein, 3g sugar, 5g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bagel
  • Price: $6.59

Protein-rich scrambled egg meets aged white cheddar cheese, fresh avocado, juicy tomatoes and salt and pepper atop a multigrain bagel flat. Without the carby bread, it’s keto-friendly and still filling. If you’re feeling ambitious, bring a low-carb bread substitute of your choice to enjoy the dish as a sandwich instead of with a fork.

Panera Bread

4. Sausage, Egg & Cheese (No Ciabatta)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/ciabatta-sausage-egg-and-cheese-sandwich.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/ciabatta-sausage-egg-and-cheese-sandwich.html

  • Nutrition Information: 590 calories, 35g fat, 40g carbs, 27g protein, 1g sugar, 2g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $6.59

Egg, cheese, savory sausage and salt and pepper are a timeless combination for a reason. You can still get down with your go-to breakfast sandwich…as long as you skip the carb-loaded bread. Feel free to add avocado to the mix to make it even more filling.

Panera Bread

Keto Sandwiches at Panera

5. Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT (No Bread)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/grilled-chicken-and-avo-blt.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/grilled-chicken-and-avo-blt.html

  • Nutrition Information: 900 calories, 55g fat, 55g carbs, 49g protein, 4g sugar, 6g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $12.39

Chicken, garlic aioli, avocado and bacon make this sandwich just fatty and filling enough to hold a keto eater over—even without the country rustic sourdough bread. Order it with a green side salad or a tomato-basil cucumber salad to make this gluten-free Panera mod more satiating, or try a cup of chicken noodle soup.

Panera Bread

6. Toasted Frontega Chicken (No Bread)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/toasted-frontega-chicken.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/toasted-frontega-chicken.html

  • Nutrition Information: 820 calories, 38g fat, 79g carbs, 43g protein, 6g sugar, 4g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $11.59

Smoked pulled chicken is packed with lean protein, while melty mozzarella cheese and mayo-based chipotle sauce boost the filling fat content. If you want to make it even lower in carbs after removing the black pepper focaccia, substitute spinach or lettuce for red onion and sliced tomatoes.

Panera Bread

7. Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich (No Bread)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/bacon-turkey-bravo.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/bacon-turkey-bravo.html

  • Nutrition Information: 860 calories, 41g fat, 75g carbs, 50g protein, 10g sugar, 3g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $11.59

Turkey, bacon, Gouda, sliced tomatoes and signature sauce make this sammy a crowd favorite. But it’s just as tasty sans-tomato basil bread, promise. Instead of just eating the sandwich fillings solo, slice and toss them atop a bed of greens for a next-level salad. Add avocado for a filling boost of healthy fats and protein.

Panera Bread

8. Tuna Salad Sandwich (No Bread)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/tuna-salad-sandwich.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/tuna-salad-sandwich.html

  • Nutrition Information: 550 calories, 28g fat, 49g carbs, 24g protein, 4g sugar, 4g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $9.59

The tuna salad is rich, satiating and refreshing, thanks to sliced tomatoes and mixed greens. It’s prime for a picnic—even without the sourdough bread. Might I suggest asking for pepperoncini and red onions for a punch of heat and sharpness?

Panera Bread

9. Turkey & Cheddar Sandwich (No Bread)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/turkey-and-cheddar-sandwich.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/turkey-and-cheddar-sandwich.html

  • Nutrition Information: 770 calories, 45g fat, 52g carbs, 41g protein, 4g sugar, 3g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $9.59

It’s the quintessential healthy lunch for a reason. Turkey is lean, versatile and loaded with protein. Here, it’s jazzed up with garlic aioli, red onion, sliced tomatoes, white cheddar cheese and crunchy mixed greens. Lose the bread and add bacon or avocado for extra fat and protein.

Panera Bread

10. Chipotle Chicken Avo Melt (No Bread)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/chipotle-chicken-avo-melt.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/chipotle-chicken-avo-melt.html

  • Nutrition information: 920 calories, 49g fat, 76g carbs, 48g protein, 5g sugar, 7g fiber
  • Make it keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $11.59

Sink your teeth into smoky pulled chicken, layered with melty white cheddar cheese, buttery avocado, fresh cilantro, sweet peppers and chipotle drizzle. As much as I love the black pepper focaccia, you’ll have to skip it to eat keto at Panera Bread this go around.

Panera Bread

11. Ciabatta Cheesesteak (No Bread)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/ciabatta-cheesesteak.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/ciabatta-cheesesteak.html

  • Nutrition Information: 1,040 calories, 52g fat, 91g carbs, 53g protein, 13g sugar, 5g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no bread
  • Price: $12.39

Tender, succulent steak + provolone cheese + caramelized onions = an epic cheesesteak base. Sweet peppers and a generous swipe of garlic aioli take this stunner over the top. Without the ciabatta, it’s a protein-rich, low-carb, keto-friendly home run.

Panera Bread

Keto Soups at Panera

12. Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/homestyle-chicken-noodle-soup.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/homestyle-chicken-noodle-soup.html

  • Nutrition information: 100 calories, 1g fat, 13g carbs, 9g protein, 4g sugar, 0g fiber
  • Make it keto: No modifications necessary
  • Price: $7.99

It doesn’t get more comforting than this classic soup, made with tender white meat chicken, chicken bone broth, egg noodles, carrots, celery and herbs. Even with pasta in the mix, this is a keto-friendly soup, although Stoler warns that it’s heavy on the noodles. Just be sure to skip the French baguette side in favor of potato chips (which are lower in carbs than the apple option, BTW) or tomato-basil cucumber salad. Either way, this dairy-free food will top even your favorite healthy canned soup.

Panera Bread

13. Broccoli Cheddar Soup

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/broccoli-cheddar-soup.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/broccoli-cheddar-soup.html

  • Nutrition Information: 360 calories, 24g fat, 25g carbs, 13g protein, 9g sugar, 1g fiber
  • Make It Keto: No modifications necessary
  • Price: $7.99

Sure, it’s not as healthy as the ten-vegetable soup that Panera Bread discontinued (RIP), but it’s certainly the most popular. And luckily, it’s keto-friendly—as long as you don’t overdo it on the carbs throughout the rest of your day. The silky-smooth cheese sauce is the ultimate match for toothsome broccoli and shredded carrot.

Panera Bread

Keto Salads at Panera

14. Caesar Salad with Chicken (No Croutons)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/caesar-salad-with-chicken.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/caesar-salad-with-chicken.html

  • Nutrition Information: 440 calories, 27g fat, 21g carbs, 32g protein, 3g sugar, 4g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no croutons
  • Price: $11.79

In Stoler’s opinion, salads are Panera’s best option for keto dieters. This classic combo of romaine lettuce, grated Parmesan and creamy Caesar dressing is proof that simplicity can be delicious. Add chicken, and it’s even more satiating. Even if you were to leave the black pepper focaccia croutons on the salad, they aren’t too carby that they’ll kick you out of ketosis (there are 17 net carbs when you subtract the fiber), as long as the rest of your meals that day are high in protein and fat and low in carbs. But feel free to ask for them on the side, if you’d prefer.

Panera Bread

15. Greek Salad

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/greek-salad.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/greek-salad.html

  • Nutrition Information: 390 calories, 35g fat, 16g carbs, 9g protein, 6g sugar, 7g fiber
  • Make It Keto: No modifications necessary
  • Price: $8.49

Kalamata olives, feta cheese, pepperoncini, citrus-herb Greek dressing—yup, the gang’s all here. Luckily, you don’t need to make a single change to this salad for it to fit into your meal plan. However, you can ask for light red onions and tomatoes to shave off a few extra carbs if you’d like, or add grilled chicken to make it even more satisfying. The salad bowl is your oyster.

Panera Bread

16. Asian Sesame Chicken Salad (No Wonton Strips)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/asian-sesame-chicken-salad.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/asian-sesame-chicken-salad.html

  • Nutrition Information: 410 calories, 21g fat, 28g carbs, 30g protein, 7g sugar, 6g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no wonton strips
  • Price: $11.79

All it takes to put this zingy salad in keto territory is nixing the carby wonton strips, since the rest is romaine lettuce, almonds, grilled chicken, cilantro and sesame vinaigrette. The sesame seeds can stay, since they’re low in carbs and high in fat, making them a great crunchy addition for keto dieters.

Panera Bread

17. Green Goddess Cobb Salad (No Onions or Tomatoes, Change Dressing)

https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/green-goddess-chicken-cobb-salad.html
Panera Bread
https://www.panerabread.com/content/panerabread_com/en-us/menu/products/green-goddess-chicken-cobb-salad.html

  • Nutrition Information: 510 calories, 29g fat, 23g carbs, 42g protein, 11g sugar, 7g fiber
  • Make It Keto: Ask for no onions or tomatoes, and change the dressing (or order it on the side)
  • Price: $12.99

This everything-but-the-kitchen-sink salad boasts chicken, mixed greens, romaine, tomatoes, avocado, pickled red onions, hard-boiled egg, chopped bacon and green goddess dressing. If you’re being strict, you can nix the onions and tomatoes and replace the dressing…but if you keep your carbs low for the rest of the day, the salad can be enjoyed as is.

Panera Bread

Keto-Friendly Salad Dressings at Panera

  • Asian Sesame Vinaigrette (90 calories, 8g fat, 4g carbs, 0g protein, 4g sugar, 0g fiber)
  • Caesar (180 calories, 18g fat, 2g carbs, 1g protein, 2g sugar, 0g fiber)
  • Greek Dressing (230 calories, 25g fat, 1g carbs, 0g protein, 0g sugar, 0g fiber)
  • Green Goddess Dressing (80 calories, 7g fat, 4g carbs, 2g protein, 3g sugar, 0g fiber)
  • Lemon Tahini Dressing (70 calories, 7g fat, 2g carbs, 1g protein, 0g sugar, 1g fiber)
  • White Balsamic Vinaigrette Flavored with Apple (160 calories, 13g fat, 11g carbs, 0g protein, 10g sugar, 0g fiber)

Ordering Tips for Eating Keto at Panera

“The keto diet is effective for helping people lose weight, but it’s not effective as a lifetime lifestyle diet,” Stoler explains. While there are no studies that examine the long-term effects of going keto for decades, it’s a fact that high dietary fat intake (especially with low fiber intake) puts a person at risk for heart disease, cancer and digestive issues. “[Keto] is certainly not the healthiest, and let’s acknowledge that in all of the longevity regions of the world, the centenarians’ diets include the same starchy carbs that are no-nos for keto,” she says.

Nevertheless, if you’re someone with a large amount of weight to lose, keto could be an effective way to kick things off. While Stoler stresses that all foods can fit in a healthy diet, here are her tips for trying it out:

  • Order menu items with no bread (like baguette, ciabatta, wraps and bagels), croutons, tortilla strips, wonton strips and other carby ingredients.
  • Order salads with low-carb dressings, such as Greek vinaigrette and Caesar. (FYI, the only Panera Bread dressing that’s moderately high in carbs is the sugary White Balsamic Vinaigrette Flavored with Apple.) Alternatively, you can order half portions of dressing or ask for your dressing on the side to easily consume it in moderation.
  • Order soups without bread bowls, crackers or croutons. Also avoid starchy, carby ingredients, like potatoes and beans. You can order a cup of soup instead of a full-size bowl to further cut carbs as well.
  • Add avocado, bacon, cheese, nuts and eggs to sandwiches and salads to up the fat and protein content of your Panera meal without too many additional carbs, and keep your protein consumption low to moderate. “Focus on nuts, seeds, full-fat cheese and yogurt and oils,” suggests Stoler, instead of leaning too heavily on meat. Supplement your diet with lots of fiber to stay full.

Beyond that, here are some other suggestions to consider:

  • Be consistent and patient. “It takes two to three weeks for the body to adapt and rely on ketosis for fuel,” Stoler explains.
  • Avoid alcohol and drink plenty of water. This will help keep you satisfied throughout the day, and keep you from breaking ketosis.
  • Don’t go on keto if you’re an endurance athlete. “The brain works better on carbs…getting hangry is not ideal!”

The TLDR Summary: How to Eat Keto at Panera

As long as you steer clear of all breads, as well as carb-heavy items like potatoes, rice and beans, you can eat keto at Panera Bread.

Related: I Tasted Panera’s New Era Menu, and This Is Hands Down the Perfect Order

Categories
Food

86 Keto Dinner Recipe Ideas to Try Tonight

In case you haven’t heard, there really is a diet where you can eat all the cheeseeggs and bacon you want. The ketogenic diet (keto for short) is a high-fat, moderate-proteinlow-carb meal plan that could potentially help you lose weight. After confirming with your doctor that it’s right for you, give one of these 86 keto dinner recipe ideas a go.

I curated the following list of mouthwatering meals to cater to every occasion and a range of dietary needs, so you will find tasty single-serving recipes for when you’re dining solo, easy weeknight dinners like sheet pan chicken with colorful vegetables and set-it-and-forget it meals, like slow cooker carnitas. You’ll also find vegetarian-friendly recipes, like this refreshing vegetarian gazpacho that comes together in just 15 minutes, and pescatarian picks (hello, seared scallops with corn succotash.) 

Read on and you’re sure to find an easy and healthy keto meal that will make your palate sing.

Related: 22 Easy Ketogenic Recipes to Try This Winter

1. Garlic Butter Steak and Scallops

https://damndelicious.net/2019/01/25/garlic-butter-steak-and-scallops/
Damn Delicious
https://damndelicious.net/2019/01/25/garlic-butter-steak-and-scallops/

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 2 people

Keto-friendly surf and turf in 30 minutes flat? Pinch me, I’m dreaming drooling. (Blame it on the herby garlic butter sauce, ‘cause I can personally attest to the fact that it’s good enough to drink.)

2. Chicken Meatballs and Cauliflower Rice

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/whole30-chicken-meatballs-cauliflower-rice-coconut-herb-sauce
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/whole30-chicken-meatballs-cauliflower-rice-coconut-herb-sauce

  • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: dairy free, gluten free, high protein
  • Serves: 4 people

The secret to the creamy, decadent sauce? Coconut milk—not dairy. (The meatballs are bound without breadcrumbs too, so they’re gluten-free as well.) If you’re looking for keto dinner ideas that cater to a wide range of dietary restrictions, add this one to your rotation. And that includes the “dietary restrictions” of picky kids—my partner makes this one for mine on a regular basis, albeit without the cauliflower rice, and they devour it every time.

3. Low-Carb Keto Chicken Stir Fry

https://www.wholesomeyum.com/keto-chicken-stir-fry-recipe/
Wholesome Yum
https://www.wholesomeyum.com/keto-chicken-stir-fry-recipe/

  • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, beginner-friendly, one pan
  • Serves: 4 people

I could eat this simple gem every night. Even better, it’s ready before you can say, “delivery, please.” I make this stir-fry every time I need to clear out the fridge, because it makes such great use of produce and is highly adaptable. That said, I strongly recommend choosing a high-quality toasted sesame oil for the best results.

4. Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

https://therecipecritic.com/creamy-tuscan-garlic-chicken/
The Recipe Critic
https://therecipecritic.com/creamy-tuscan-garlic-chicken/

  • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, crowd-pleaser, low carb
  • Serves: 6 people

Psst: The sauce tastes just as good with shrimp or salmon in place of chicken. Serve it over zoodles if you’re craving pasta.

5. Shrimp with Cauliflower “Grits” and Arugula

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-and-cauliflower-grits
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-and-cauliflower-grits

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: low carb, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Is there anything cauliflower can’t do? Is there anything cauliflower can’t do? I think not. Here, it unites with garlicky arugula, tangy goat cheese and spiced shrimp for a well-rounded dinner that’s one of my personal favorites.

6. Baked Eggs and Zoodles with Avocado

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ketogenic-baked-eggs-and-zoodles-with-avocado
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ketogenic-baked-eggs-and-zoodles-with-avocado

  • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, gluten free, low carb, <10 ingredients
  • Serves: 2 people

When you want a break from meat and cheese, buttery, satiating avocado will be there atop a nest of spiralized zucchini. Substitute cucumber, carrots or beets if you’d prefer. (In my opinion, jammy eggs and avocado are two perfect foods that pair well with just about everything.)

7. Gluten-Free Cheese and Cauliflower ‘Breadsticks’

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gluten-free-cheesy-cauliflower-breadsticks
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gluten-free-cheesy-cauliflower-breadsticks

  • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
  • Why I Love It: kid-friendly, gluten free, 10 ingredients
  • Serves: 4 people

Dinner is incomplete without ’em, so get your fix minus the carbs. Egg is used to bind the “breadsticks,” which are packed with mozzarella, Parmesan and fresh herbs.

8. Sheet Pan Chicken with Rainbow Veggies

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-sheet-pan-chicken-rainbow-veggies
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-sheet-pan-chicken-rainbow-veggies

  • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
  • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, high protein, gluten free
  • Serves: 4 people

This keto-friendly meal is loaded with flavor and requires minimal cleanup to boot. The recipe calls for bell peppers, carrots, broccoli and red onions, but you can sub any neglected veggies in your crisper drawer.

9. Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Slow-Cooker-Pork-Carnitas-Tacos
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Slow-Cooker-Pork-Carnitas-Tacos

  • Time Commitment: 7 hours and 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, high protein, crowd-pleaser
  • Serves: 8 people

Take a load off: Your Crockpot has dinner covered. Use the meat in tacos, burritos, quesadillas or salads, and the leftovers for tomorrow’s breakfast hash.

10. Prosciutto-Wrapped Cauliflower Bites

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-prosciutto-wrapped-cauliflower-bites
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-prosciutto-wrapped-cauliflower-bites

  • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 8-10 people

Serve them as an app at your next dinner party, plate them with a side of greens or devour them solo. (I’m partial to the latter, TBH.)

11. Cheese Shell Taco Cups

https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-cheese-shell-taco-cups/
Hey Keto Mama
https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-cheese-shell-taco-cups/

  • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly, kid-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

No need for tortillas here. Crispy, fatty caramelized Colby Jack cheese to the rescue. If you’re anything like me, you won’t want to eat a taco any other way after you taste these.

12. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad-Stuffed Peppers

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-yogurt-chicken-salad-stuffed-peppers
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-yogurt-chicken-salad-stuffed-peppers

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: make ahead, crowd-pleaser, high protein
  • Serves: 6 people

These vibrant cuties are picnic-bound and a cinch to prepare ahead. Make the chicken salad (from a store-bought rotisserie chicken for minimum fuss) a day in advance, then fill the peppers immediately before serving.

13. Cauliflower ‘Potato’ Salad

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-potato-salad
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-potato-salad

  • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
  • Why I Love It: make ahead, low carb, beginner-friendly, crowd-pleaser
  • Serves: 6 people

When the carb cravings hit, cauliflower can stand in for spuds to create this keto-friendly side dish. Prepare it ahead so the veggie can soak up all the tangy dressing.

14. Chicken Enchilada Bowl

https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-chicken-enchilada-bowl/
Hey Keto Mama
https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-chicken-enchilada-bowl/

  • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
  • Why I Love It: kid-friendly, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

I’ll take an extra sprinkle of cheese and all the sour cream you have, please. (Avocado, pickled jalapeños, salsa verde and pico de gallo would be stellar finishing touches, too.)

15. Chicken and Snap Pea Stir Fry

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-snap-pea-stir-fry-recipe
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-snap-pea-stir-fry-recipe

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: kid-friendly, one pan, beginner-friendly, <30 minutes
  • Serves: 4 people

You only need five ingredients to make this takeout-inspired meal, which is decidedly kid-friendly. Just go easy on the sriracha if they’re sensitive to spice.

16. Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde

https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/healthy-slow-cooker-chicken-chile-verde/
Ambitious Kitchen
https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/healthy-slow-cooker-chicken-chile-verde/

  • Time Commitment: 8 hours
  • Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, Paleo-friendly, high protein
  • Serves: 1 person

Leave it to the Crockpot to turn chicken thighs super juicy and tender. Serve this keto-friendly dish with a side of cauliflower rice and a small serving of beans to keep the carbs to a minimum.

17. Vegan Cauliflower Soup

https://simple-veganista.com/vegan-cauliflower-soup/
The Simple Veganista
https://simple-veganista.com/vegan-cauliflower-soup/

  • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, vegan, kid-friendly
  • Serves: 4-6 people

No dairy, no potatoes, no problem for your low-carb meal plan. Finish your bowl with crushed red pepper flakes and a spritz of lemon.

18. Spicy Ginger Scallion and Egg Drop Zucchini Noodle Soup

https://inspiralized.com/ginger-scallion-egg-drop-zucchini-noodle-bowl/
Inspiralized
https://inspiralized.com/ginger-scallion-egg-drop-zucchini-noodle-bowl/

  • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, one pot, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 1 person

Talk about a light, refreshing meal. The zoodles will scratch your itch for pasta, while the egg will help keep you satisfied between meals.

19. Low-Carb Bacon Burger with Guacamole

https://themodernproper.com/low-carb-bacon-burger-with-guacamole
The Modern Proper
https://themodernproper.com/low-carb-bacon-burger-with-guacamole

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, high protein, gluten free
  • Serves: 6 people

Aka our dream dinner. Skip bread in favor of lettuce wraps (or a low-carb bun) and ta-da: This burger is keto-friendly.

20. Cacio e Pepe Cauliflower

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cacio-e-pepe-cauliflower
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cacio-e-pepe-cauliflower

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, <30 minutes, gluten free
  • Serves: 6-8 people

Pasta? Never met her. This super cheesy side is all you need, and it’ll become one of your go-tos at first bite.

21. Keto Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl Recipe

https://www.wholesomeyum.com/keto-ahi-poke-bowl-recipe/
Wholesome Yum
https://www.wholesomeyum.com/keto-ahi-poke-bowl-recipe/

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, beginner-friendly, low carb
  • Serves: 4 people

Ready and on the table in less than 20 minutes—much faster than a flight to Hawaii, no? Once the cauliflower rice is prepared, you won’t have to cook a minute more.

22. Low-Carb Lasagna-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

https://www.heyketomama.com/low-carb-lasagna-stuffed-spaghetti-squash/
Hey Keto Mama
https://www.heyketomama.com/low-carb-lasagna-stuffed-spaghetti-squash/

  • Time Commitment: 1 hour and 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, low carb, high protein
  • Serves: 4 people

The ultimate comfort food, with a keto-friendly twist. If you add the filling mixture back into the squash shell to bake, add water to the bottom of the pan so the gourd doesn’t burn.

23. Instant Pot Greek Cauliflower Rice

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-greek-cauliflower-rice
Leslie Grow/Keto In an Instant
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-greek-cauliflower-rice

  • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
  • Why I Love It: Instant Pot recipe, <30 minutes, vegetarian
  • Serves: 8 people

Plain cauli rice is fine…but this Mediterranean-inspired version from Jen Fisch of Keto in the City is even better. Bring on the feta, olives and walnuts.

24. Cauliflower Tortillas

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Cauliflower-Tortillas
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Cauliflower-Tortillas

  • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, make ahead, gluten free
  • Serves: 6 people

Call all your keto friends: Taco Tuesday is a go, thanks to cauliflower and eggs. Just don’t skimp on the guac.

25. Tuna-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/mexican-tuna-stuffed-zucchini-boats/
Food Faith Fitness
https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/mexican-tuna-stuffed-zucchini-boats/

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, low carb, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 2 people

It’s possibly the easiest main you’ll ever make, thanks to a protein-packed pantry staple: canned tuna. The avocado salsa adds buttery texture and citrusy zing to every bite.

26. One-Pan Eggs with Asparagus and Tomatoes

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/One-Pan-Egg-Recipe
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/One-Pan-Egg-Recipe

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, gluten free, dairy free, <10 ingredients
  • Serves: 4 people

Breakfast for dinner? Yes, please. Serve the eggs and veggies with salad, soup or bacon to make ’em more filling.

27. Greek Wedge Salad

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-wedge-salad
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-wedge-salad

  • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, no cook, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Put down the bacon bits and step away from the blue cheese dressing. This wedge salad is lighter and on the table in less than 20 minutes.

28. Goat Cheese and Spinach-Stuffed Chicken

https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/spinach-stuffed-chicken-breast/
Ambitious Kitchen
https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/spinach-stuffed-chicken-breast/

  • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 1 person

When your friends say they could never do keto, serve them this to show them the light. The chicken is prepared hasselback-style and stuffed with cheese, spinach, caramelized onion and mushrooms.

29. One-Pan Roasted Chicken with Carrots

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-roasted-chicken-with-carrots
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-roasted-chicken-with-carrots

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, sheet pan recipe, <10 ingredients
  • Serves: 4 people

The only thing easier than the cleanup is eating the juicy, crispy chicken thighs. A sprinkle of fresh rosemary really takes them over the top.

30. Keto Salmon Sushi Bowl

https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-salmon-sushi-bowl/
Hey Keto Mama
https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-salmon-sushi-bowl/

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, beginner-friendly, high protein
  • Serves: 1 person

In this case, no rice is a good thing. Use blitzed cauliflower instead (or better yet, steam-in-the-bag cauli rice).

31. Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Ranch

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/roasted-cauliflower-tahini-ranch
Photo: Michael Marquand/Styling: Jake Cohen
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/roasted-cauliflower-tahini-ranch

  • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, gluten free, vegetarian
  • Serves: 8 people

Meet your new favorite condiment. You’ll want to make a double (or um, triple) batch, trust.

32. Cream of Mushroom Soup

https://www.wholesomeyum.com/recipes/gluten-free-cream-of-mushroom-soup-low-carb-keto/
Wholesome Yum
https://www.wholesomeyum.com/recipes/gluten-free-cream-of-mushroom-soup-low-carb-keto/

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: gluten free, low-carb, crowd-pleaser
  • Serves: 5 people

If you’re craving comfort food, try curling up with this seven-ingredient beauty. Sub coconut cream for heavy cream to make the soup dairy-free.

33. Low-Carb Chicken Fajita Salad

https://lifemadesweeter.com/low-carb-chicken-fajita-salad/
Life Made Sweeter
https://lifemadesweeter.com/low-carb-chicken-fajita-salad/

  • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, <30 minutes, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

If you insist on having salad for dinner, why not one like this? Pile on all the hot sauce you desire.

34. 15-Minute Gazpacho with Cucumber, Red Pepper and Basil

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gazpacho-recipe
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gazpacho-recipe

  • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, no cook, make ahead
  • Serves: 4 people

All you need is fresh produce and a blender to whip up this summer stunner. Serve it with keto-friendly bread for dipping.

35. Cauliflower Fried Rice

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-fried-rice
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-fried-rice

  • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, beginner-friendly, kid-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Also referred to as a plateful of comforting deliciousness. Don’t skip the runny egg on top—it offers both protein and indulgence.

36. Sheet Pan Teriyaki Salmon

https://damndelicious.net/2017/02/10/sheet-pan-teriyaki-salmon/
Damn Delicious
https://damndelicious.net/2017/02/10/sheet-pan-teriyaki-salmon/

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, <10 ingredients, high protein
  • Serves: 4 people

This is hands down the easiest way to cook seafood, in our opinion. Swap in any veggies that are hiding in the back of your fridge.

37. Cauliflower Soup with Coconut, Turmeric and Lime

https://happyhealthymama.com/cauliflower-soup-with-coconut-turmeric-and-lime.html
Happy Healthy Mama
https://happyhealthymama.com/cauliflower-soup-with-coconut-turmeric-and-lime.html

  • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, gluten free, beginner-friendly, vegetarian
  • Serves: 4 people

Turmeric and curry powder make this soul-soother an edible immunity booster, while coconut milk keeps it creamy and dairy-free.

38. Spaghetti Squash Primavera

https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/spaghetti-squash-primavera/
Food Faith Fitness
https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/spaghetti-squash-primavera/

  • Time Commitment: 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: vegetarian, low carb
  • Serves: 4 people

Spaghetti squash is a low-carb dieter’s BFF. For people who love eating but hate washing dishes, you should know this dish only dirties one pot and pan.

39. Easy Mexican Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles

https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/mexican-zucchini-noodles/
Food Faith Fitness
https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/mexican-zucchini-noodles/

  • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein, gluten free
  • Serves: 4 people

Hearty yet refreshing, this low-carb meal will fill you up without bogging you down. Good looking out, zoodles.

40. Chipotle-Lime Shrimp Lettuce Cups

https://thedefineddish.com/5-ingredient-chipotle-lime-shrimp-lettuce-cups/
The Defined Dish
https://thedefineddish.com/5-ingredient-chipotle-lime-shrimp-lettuce-cups/

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 2 people

These elegant bites prove that eating keto doesn’t need to be time-consuming or expensive. One pound of shrimp and one head of lettuce go a *long* way.

41. Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup

https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-broccoli-cheddar-soup/
Hey Keto Mama
https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-broccoli-cheddar-soup/

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, gluten free, kid-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Panera Bread has nothing on this creamy, decadent gem. Even your picky eater will drink it down without a fuss.

42. Salsa Verde Shredded Beef Bowls

https://thedefineddish.com/salsa-verde-shredded-beef-bowls/
The Defined Dish
https://thedefineddish.com/salsa-verde-shredded-beef-bowls/

  • Time Commitment: 6 hours and 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, high protein, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 4 people

This Mexican-inspired pick will keep you full without any cheese or sour cream. (But I wouldn’t blame you for adding either ingredient to your bowl…)

43. Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-spicy-thai-butternut-squash-soup
Photo: Michael Marquad/Styling: Nisha Vora
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-spicy-thai-butternut-squash-soup

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: Instant Pot recipe, crowd-pleaser, vegan
  • Serves: 4 people

Crisp fall evenings call for a hug in a bowl. Skip the maple syrup to shave off a few extra carbs.

44. Grilled Zucchini Tomato Feta Boats

https://www.themediterraneandish.com/mediterranean-grilled-zucchini-tomato-feta-2/
The Mediterranean Dish
https://www.themediterraneandish.com/mediterranean-grilled-zucchini-tomato-feta-2/

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <30 minutes, vegetarian
  • Serves: 6 people

Close your eyes and you’re in Greece, thanks to briny, lip-smacking feta cheese, fresh mint and cherry tomatoes.

45. Low-Carb Pho with Zoodles

https://www.wholesomeyum.com/low-carb-keto-pho-recipe/
Wholesome Yum
https://www.wholesomeyum.com/low-carb-keto-pho-recipe/

  • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
  • Why I Love It: low carb, high protein, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 4 people

Warning: You’ll want to make this weekly after you try it. Spritz all the lime juice your mouth can handle into your bowl for a welcome pop of acidity.

46. Baked Chicken and Ricotta Meatballs

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/baked-chicken-ricotta-meatballs
Patricia Niven/Keeping It Simple
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/baked-chicken-ricotta-meatballs

  • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, crowd-pleaser, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 4 people

You shouldn’t limit meatballs to apps and spaghetti. Here, they’re filled with cheese and cooked alongside charred broccolini.

47. Greek Chicken with Feta and Kalamata Olives

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-chicken-feta-kalamata-olives
Ola Smit/Dinners In The Bag
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-chicken-feta-kalamata-olives

  • Time Commitment: 1 hour and 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, beginner-friendly, high protein
  • Serves: 4 people

Just toss everything together in a casserole pan and you’ll only have one dirty dish to clean after dinner. Serve it with extra greens on the side.

48. Grilled Flank Steak with Lemon Herb Sauce

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce
Photo Eric Moran/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Grilled-Flank-Steak-with-Lemon-Herb-Sauce

  • Time Commitment: 2 hours
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, high protein, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 6 people

Wow everyone at the barbecue without breaking a sweat with this beyond simple steak recipe. Consider the marinating time a built-in cocktail hour.

49. Parmesan Ranch Chicken Thighs

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/parmesan-ranch-chicken-thighs
Photo Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/parmesan-ranch-chicken-thighs

  • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, high protein
  • Serves: 6 people

Seven ingredients, much magic. Even picky kids will have zero complaints about this slaw-topped wonder.

50. Lemon Salmon with Garlic and Thyme

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-salmon
Photo/Styling: Katherine Gillen
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-salmon

  • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein, <10 ingredients
  • Serves: 4 people

For when you want something that tastes fancy, minus all the effort. The salmon is seasoned with nothing but pantry staples, fresh lemon and dried thyme.

51. Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-keto-indian-butter-chicken
Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-keto-indian-butter-chicken

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein, Instant Pot recipe
  • Serves: 4 people

Forget low and slow: The pressure cooker pulls this main off in 20 minutes flat. Once you brown the chicken in the Instant Pot, the rest is all hands-off.

52. Keto Pasta with Lemon-Kale Chicken

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-pasta-lemon-kale-chicken
Dana Carpender/Keto for One
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-pasta-lemon-kale-chicken

  • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 1 person

It may *look* like regular pasta, but they’re really low-carb tofu shirataki noodles. Choose any long cut, like spaghetti or angel hair.

53. Keto Skillet Lasagna

https://www.thecreativebite.com/keto-skillet-lasagna/
The Creative Bite
https://www.thecreativebite.com/keto-skillet-lasagna/

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: low carb, kid-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Loaded with everything but the pasta, so low-carb eaters can get in on the cheesy goodness, too. Sub ground Italian sausage, turkey or chicken if you feel so inclined.

54. Cast Iron Pork Chops with Cacao-Spiced Rub

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cast-iron-pork-chops-cacao-spiced-rub
Eric Wolfinger/The Mexican Keto Cookbook
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cast-iron-pork-chops-cacao-spiced-rub

  • Time Commitment: 1 hour
  • Why I Love It: high protein, make ahead
  • Serves: 4 people

The secret to beyond juicy chops? Salt the pork 45 minutes before cooking so it doesn’t turn tough as it cooks. Save time before dinner by making the cacao spice rub ahead.

55. Keto Steak and Blue Cheese Salad for One

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-steak-blue-cheese-salad
Dana Carpender/The Keto for One Cookbook
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-steak-blue-cheese-salad

  • Time Commitment: 5 minutes
  • Why I Love It: make ahead, <10 ingredients, <30 minutes
  • Serves: 1 person

Your deskmates are jealous already. This low-lift salad is our favorite way to repurpose leftover beef.

56. Chicken Thighs with Pancetta and Green Olives

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-thighs-pancetta-green-olives
Christopher Hirsheimer/Canal House Cook Something
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-thighs-pancetta-green-olives

  • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, special occasion-worthy, <10 ingredients
  • Serves: 4 people

Briny, crispy and downright foolproof. Oh, and did I mention it comes together in your trusty cast iron skillet?

57. Keto Ham and Cheese Hot Pockets

https://themodernproper.com/keto-ham-and-cheese-hot-pockets
The Modern Proper
https://themodernproper.com/keto-ham-and-cheese-hot-pockets

  • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
  • Why I Love It: gluten free, kid-friendly, make ahead
  • Serves: 12 people

These copycat handhelds are both low-carb and gluten-free, thanks to almond flour. P.S.: They freeze like a dream for lickity-split lunches.

58. Keto Instant Pot Sausage-Kale Soup

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-sausage-kale-soup
Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-sausage-kale-soup

  • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, Instant Pot recipe, one pot
  • Serves: 4 people

I recommend slurping it down by a roaring fire for extra warm-and-fuzzy feels. Add the kale last and let it soften for about five minutes before digging in.

59. One-Pan Steak with Beets and Crispy Kale

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-steak-with-beets-and-crispy-kale
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-steak-with-beets-and-crispy-kale

  • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
  • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, <10 ingredients, high protein
  • Serves: 4 people

Never feel intimidated by cooking steak again. Your oven (and life-saving sheet pan) will do all the heavy lifting tonight.

60. Seared Scallops with Corn Succotash

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pan-seared-scallops-citrusy-corn-succotash
Erin Kunkel/The Vibrant Life
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pan-seared-scallops-citrusy-corn-succotash

  • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
  • Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, <10 ingredients
  • Serves: 4 people

Did you know three ounces of scallops pack a whopping 20 grams of protein? They cook to perfection in a flash, too (and they’re easier to prepare than you think).

61. Vegan Keto Coconut Curry

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-keto-coconut-curry
Helene Dujardin/The Essential Vegan Keto Cookbook
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-keto-coconut-curry

  • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
  • Why I Love It: vegan, gluten free, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Tofu offers 18 grams of plant-based protein per serving. Don’t worry, I’ll look the other way if you want to lick the bowl clean.

62. Keto Everything Chicken Wings

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/everything-chicken-wings
Mellissa Sevigny/Squeaky Clean Keto
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/everything-chicken-wings

  • Time Commitment: 55 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 6 people

Mix the everything bagel seasoning yourself or substitute store-bought. Either way, these butter-drenched wings are an easy home run.

63. Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

https://www.staysnatched.com/easy-keto-low-carb-bacon-cheeseburger-casserole/
Stay Snatched
https://www.staysnatched.com/easy-keto-low-carb-bacon-cheeseburger-casserole/

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly
  • Serves: 6 people

Warning: Your kids will beg you to make this every week once they have a taste at dinnertime. It has all the essentials, from pickles to mustard to cheddar cheese.

64. Steak Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/steak-skewers-chimichurri-recipe
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/steak-skewers-chimichurri-recipe

  • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, high protein, crowd-pleaser
  • Serves: 6 people

Beef tenderloin, cherry tomatoes and red onion, united by garlicky chimichurri. Use a grill pan instead of the barbecue to cook the skewers indoors—you won’t want to sacrifice those char marks.

65. 15-Minute Skillet Pepper Steak

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/fifteen-minute-skillet-pepper-steak
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/fifteen-minute-skillet-pepper-steak

  • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, one pan, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Put down the takeout menu—you’ve got this. You can add basically any less-than-stellar produce you’d like to the skillet to boot.

66. Salmon with Pesto and Blistered Tomatoes

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-pesto-blistered-tomatoes
ELIZABETH VAN LIERDE & ABAGAIL HALSTEAD/EVERYDAY ENTERTAINING
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-pesto-blistered-tomatoes

  • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Herbaceous, flavorful store-bought pesto is one of our favorite shortcuts in the book. Here, it’s key for keeping the ingredients list down to six items.

67. Low-Carb Tex-Mex Casserole

https://dudethatcookz.com/low-carb-tex-mex-casserole/
Dude That Cookz
https://dudethatcookz.com/low-carb-tex-mex-casserole/

  • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 4 people

Instead of using pasta or rice to bind the casserole, eggs and cream cheese do the trick, making the casserole low-carb and keto-friendly. (Oh, and super indulgent.)

68. Pepper Teigen’s Thai Glazed Ribs

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/thai-glazed-ribs
Jenny Huang/The Pepper Thai Cookbook
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/thai-glazed-ribs

  • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 4 people

They only take 40 minutes to prepare, since they’re deep-fried instead of grilled. This turns the ribs tender and crispy in a fraction of the time.

69. 30-Minute Breakfast Hash with Kale and Sweet Potatoes

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/30-minute-breakfast-hash
Photo/Styling: Katherine Gillen
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/30-minute-breakfast-hash

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly, one pan
  • Serves: 3 to 4 people

Sub additional veggies for sweet potatoes to bring the carbs even lower. While you’re at it, go ahead and add bacon to the mix—you know you want to.

70. Tuna Salad with Yogurt, Capers and Za’atar

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tuna-salad-yogurt-capers-zaatar
Romas Foord/Sea Salt and Honey
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tuna-salad-yogurt-capers-zaatar

  • Time Commitment: 5 minutes
  • Why I Love It: make ahead, no cook, high protein
  • Serves: 2 people

Mayo who? You’ll never make this lunch staple the old way again. Greek yogurt is just as creamy, but tangier and higher in protein.

71. Strawberry, Basil and Arugula Salad

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/strawberry-salad
Photo/Styling: Katherine Gillen
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/strawberry-salad

  • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, <10 ingredients, no cook
  • Serves: 4 people

This modernized ’90s staple is only ten minutes away (and it’d be even tastier and more filling crowned with grilled chicken).

72. Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-in-garlic-sauce
Esteban Castillo/Chicano Eats
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-in-garlic-sauce

  • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, <10 ingredients, crowd-pleaser
  • Serves: 5 people

Aka 15-minute shrimp in an epic lemon-garlic sauce. You’ll want lots of low-carb bread for soaking up every last drop of butter.

73. Pressure Cooker Mushroom-Beef Soup

https://www.thecreativebite.com/pressure-cooker-creamy-mushroom-beef-soup/
The Creative Bite
https://www.thecreativebite.com/pressure-cooker-creamy-mushroom-beef-soup/

  • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
  • Why I Love It: Instant Pot recipe, high protein, one pot
  • Serves: 8 people

Low-carb comfort food at its finest, courtesy of the pressure cooker. Use corn starch to thicken the soup instead of flour to make it gluten free.

74. Seared Scallops with Citrus-Shallot Salad

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/seared-scallops-citrus-shallot-salad
Photo/Styling: Katherine Gillen
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/seared-scallops-citrus-shallot-salad

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, <10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 4 people

Thoroughly pat the scallops dry before searing them to get a flawless outer crust, and don’t place them in the pan until the oil is shimmering and sufficiently heated.

75. Air Fryer Fried Chicken

https://grandbaby-cakes.com/air-fryer-fried-chicken/
Grandbaby Cakes
https://grandbaby-cakes.com/air-fryer-fried-chicken/

  • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, high protein, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 4 people

Who knew almond flour and pork panko crumbs (ground pork rinds) made such a stellar low-carb breading? Serve with ranch dressing, hot sauce and lemon wedges.

76. Low-Carb Zucchini Enchiladas

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/low-carb-zucchini-enchiladas
Photo: Mark Weinberg/Styling: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/low-carb-zucchini-enchiladas

  • Time Commitment: 1 hour and 15 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, make ahead
  • Serves: 8 people

Bye, tortillas—zucchini has this one covered. Did I mention the enchiladas freeze and reheat like a charm? (You can thank me later.)

77. Keto Guacamole Burger Bites

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-guacamole-burger-bites
Photo: Liz Andrew/Stying: Erin McDowell
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-guacamole-burger-bites

  • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, kid-friendly, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 8 people

These teeny toothpick-able bites will take you 35 minutes to make (and 30 seconds to devour). They’re basically bacon-wrapped mini meatballs topped with guac, tomato and fresh mozz.

78. Antoni Porowski’s Strip Steak with Harissa Butter and Parsley Salad

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/antoni-porowski-strip-steak-harissa-butter-parsley-salad
Paul Brissman/Antoni: Let’s Do Dinner
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/antoni-porowski-strip-steak-harissa-butter-parsley-salad

  • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
  • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 4 people

Oh so impressive, yet ready in 20 minutes with minimal effort. “Melting a pat of good butter over a warm, juicy steak is the ticket to luxuriousness,” recipe creator and Queer Eye star Antoni Porowski shared. “Blend that butter with harissa, the North African chili paste, and in two minutes, you’ve got an amped-up power player.

79. Ginger-Scallion Chicken Meatballs with Sesame-Soy Glaze

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ginger-scallion-chicken-meatballs-sesame-soy-glaze
Photo/Styling: Katherine Gillen
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ginger-scallion-chicken-meatballs-sesame-soy-glaze

  • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
  • Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, high protein
  • Serves: 4 people

Baking instead of pan-frying yields supremely tender results. Eat the sticky, savory meatballs solo, with fresh veggies or atop a bed of cauli rice with quick-pickled cucumbers, cabbage and carrot.

80. Vegan Keto Everything Bagels

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-keto-everything-bagels
Helene Dujardin/The Essential Vegan Keto Cookbook
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-keto-everything-bagels

  • Time Commitment: 1 hour
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, make ahead, beginner-friendly
  • Serves: 6 people

Top one of these beauties with cream cheese and smoked salmon and call it dinner. (Microgreens, capers and red onion are solid accoutrements too.)

81. Ina Garten’s Creamy Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Thyme

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ina-garten-creamy-chicken-thighs-with-lemon-and-thyme
Quentin Bacon/Go-To Dinners
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ina-garten-creamy-chicken-thighs-with-lemon-and-thyme

  • Time Commitment: 1 hour and 25 minutes
  • Why I Love It: high protein, special occasion-worthy
  • Serves: 4 people

Leave it to the Barefoot Contessa to make a gourmet dinner this easy to prepare. Sub cauliflower rice for couscous to make it keto-friendly

82. Spicy, Crunchy Tuna Salad Lettuce Cups

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-crunchy-tuna-salad-lettuce-cups
Katherine Gillen
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-crunchy-tuna-salad-lettuce-cups

  • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
  • Why I Love It: no cook, <30 minutes, beginner-friendly, gluten free, <10 ingredients
  • Serves: 2 people

No cook? Check. Ready in 10 minutes? Check. Packed with protein? You bet. Canned tuna saves the day once again.

83. Lemongrass-Ginger Coconut Grilled Steak

https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-lemongrass-ginger-coconut-grilled-steak
Chelsea Kyle/For the Table
https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-lemongrass-ginger-coconut-grilled-steak

  • Time Commitment: 1 hour and 10 minutes
  • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, <10 ingredients, high protein
  • Serves: 6 to 8 people

Dinner is less than ten ingredients away (and it’s damn impressive nonetheless). Serve it with raw greens, zoodles or grilled vegetables.

    84. Miso-Honey Broiled Chicken

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/miso-honey-broiled-chicken
    Yuki Sugiura/Love Japan
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/miso-honey-broiled-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
    • Why I Love It: high protein, <10 ingredients, beginner-friendly
    • Serves: 4 people

    This simple dish is proof that pantry staples can go miles in the flavor department. The marinade is nothing but umami-rich miso and sweet honey. Butter is added as the chicken cooks for a dose of richness.

    85. Jalapeño Popper Omelet

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/jalapeno-popper-omelet
    Katherine Gillen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/jalapeno-popper-omelet

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, <10 ingredients
    • Serves: 2 people

    Spicy, cheesy, creamy and crowned with bacon, this omelet will satisfy your hankering for jalapeño poppers without the messy frying. Even better, you’ll only need eight ingredients to pull it off. I call that a win-win.

    86. Kristin Cavallari’s Salmon BLT Salad with Spicy Tomatillo Ranch

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch
    Aubrie Pick/Truly Simple
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kristin-cavallari-salmon-blt-salad-with-spicy-tomatillo-ranch

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, high protein, <30 minutes
    • Serves: 2 people

    Salmon is satiating enough on its own. Add avocado and bacon to the fish and it’ll surely hold you over (well, until dessert anyway).

    Categories
    Food

    55 Low-Carb Lunch Ideas You’ll Actually Be Excited to Eat

    Following a low-carb diet can potentially help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol and blood pressure and reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes. It’s no wonder you’ve decided to give it a go. (We salute you!) But you still want to eat meals that are quick and easy, not to mention delicious…and we have just the ticket. Read on for 55 low-carb lunch ideas that will make it a breeze to stick to your new meal plan.

    What Are the Most Filling Low-Carb Foods?

    As much as we love to fill up on bread, we know the feeling is fleeting—and there’s nothing as disappointing as getting a hunger pang 30 minutes after lunch. Instead, reach for a combination of lean proteins (like chicken breast or turkey), healthy fats (like avocado, nuts and Greek yogurt) and fiber-rich vegetables (like broccoli or kale) to keep you full without all the carbs.

    What Can I Eat for Lunch Instead of Bread?

    If your ideal lunch is a triple decker club sammie or you always say yes to the bread with your salad, don’t fret. There are plenty of alternatives that make a satisfying meal (and they don’t all involve swapping your bun for lettuce leaves). We’re big fans of salads that incorporate lots of textures and plenty of protein, or hefty bowls that swap rice for cauliflower or zucchini.

    Related: 86 Keto Dinner Recipe Ideas to Try Tonight

    55 Low-Carb Lunch Ideas

    1. Cold Sesame Cucumber Noodles (14g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cold-sesame-cucumber-noodles
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cold-sesame-cucumber-noodles

    • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <15 minutes, no cook, vegetarian

    Adding store-bought baked tofu not only makes this recipe so easy to prepare, but it boosts the protein content to keep you full until dinnertime.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cold-sesame-cucumber-noodles

    2. Bruschetta Chicken (6g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bruschetta-chicken
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bruschetta-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, gluten free, dairy free

    Why bother with breading when your chicken is crispy all by itself? The secret lies in making sure your skillet is hot enough to get everything well browned.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bruschetta-chicken

    3. Whole30 Chicken Meatballs and Cauliflower Rice with Coconut-Herb Sauce (17g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/whole30-chicken-meatballs-cauliflower-rice-coconut-herb-sauce
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/whole30-chicken-meatballs-cauliflower-rice-coconut-herb-sauce

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: Whole30, high protein

    Nothing against traditional spaghetti and meatballs, but this low-carb lunch might be even better. The meatballs are juicy, tender and flavorful, but won’t put you in a carb coma by 3 p.m.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/whole30-chicken-meatballs-cauliflower-rice-coconut-herb-sauce

    4. Family-Style Chicken Caesar Salad (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/family-style-chicken-caesar-salad
    The Minimalist Kitchen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/family-style-chicken-caesar-salad

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, low carb

    Skip the croutons for a dish that clocks in at just 8 grams of carbs per serving. With garlic, olives and Worcestershire in the dressing, we promise you won’t miss a thing.

    The Minimalist Kitchen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/family-style-chicken-caesar-salad

    5. Keto Steak and Blue Cheese Salad for One (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-steak-blue-cheese-salad
    Dana Carpender/The Keto for One Cookbook
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-steak-blue-cheese-salad

    • Time Commitment: 5 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <15 minutes, keto, <10 ingredients

    You don’t have to follow a keto diet to enjoy its low-carb benefits. This salad is impossibly quick and simple when you use leftover steak from last night’s dinner.

    Dana Carpender/The Keto for One Cookbook
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-steak-blue-cheese-salad

    6. Pesto Zoodles (14g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pesto-zoodles-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pesto-zoodles-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: vegetarian, gluten free, <30 minutes

    Between the sauce and the zucchini noodles, you’re looking at just 14 grams of carbs in one meal. This might be a diet miracle (and a delicious one, at that).

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pesto-zoodles-recipe

    7. Low-Carb Pesto and Turkey Cucumber Roll Ups (2.5g Carbs)

    https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/low-carb-pesto-turkey-cucumber-roll-ups/
    Ambitious Kitchen
    https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/low-carb-pesto-turkey-cucumber-roll-ups/

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <15 minutes, no cook, gluten free

    This modern, healthy take on turkey pinwheels will inspire all the envy from your coworkers. Each roll-up contains just 2.5 grams of carbs and almost 4 grams of protein.

    Ambitious Kitchen
    https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/low-carb-pesto-turkey-cucumber-roll-ups/

    8. 20-Minute Shrimp Scampi Zoodles (16g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-scampi-zoodles
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-scampi-zoodles

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, <30 minutes

    And you thought sticking to a healthy meal plan was going to be time-consuming. Want to make this dish even easier? Pick up some store-bought zoodles instead of spiralizing them at home.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-scampi-zoodles

    9. Meal-Prep Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles (28g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/meal-prep-turkey-meatballs-zucchini-noodles
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/meal-prep-turkey-meatballs-zucchini-noodles

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, make ahead

    Sure, 28 grams of carbs per serving might seem like a lot (especially compared to others on this list), but think about how many carbs a bowl of angel hair would rack up.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/meal-prep-turkey-meatballs-zucchini-noodles

    10. Zucchini & Tomato Ragù (7g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zucchini-and-tomato-ragu
    Helen Cathcart/Tuscany
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zucchini-and-tomato-ragu

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, low sugar

    If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that zucchini is a (nearly) carbless wonder vegetable. Think of this dish as ratatouille’s elegant Italian cousin.

    Helen Cathcart/Tuscany
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zucchini-and-tomato-ragu

    11. Tomato Salad with Grilled Halloumi and Herbs (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tomato-salad-grilled-halloumi-and-herbs
    Aubrie Pick/Great Tastes
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tomato-salad-grilled-halloumi-and-herbs

    • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <15 minutes, <10 ingredients

    Not only does this salad feature grilled halloumi cheese (a major selling point for us), but it comes together in ten minutes. Swoon.

    Aubrie Pick/Great Tastes
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tomato-salad-grilled-halloumi-and-herbs

    12. Meal-Prep Creamy Kale Caesar Salad (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/meal-prep-creamy-kale-caesar-salad
    100 Days of Real Food
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/meal-prep-creamy-kale-caesar-salad

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: make ahead, <15 minutes, <10 ingredients

    We see your store-bought $15 kale salad and raise you this homemade version dressed in an irresistible lemon-sour cream dressing. And psst: It costs less than $3 per serving to make.

    100 Days of Real Food
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/meal-prep-creamy-kale-caesar-salad

    13. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Stuffed Peppers (16g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-yogurt-chicken-salad-stuffed-peppers
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-yogurt-chicken-salad-stuffed-peppers

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein

    This isn’t your mother’s chicken salad (no offense, Mom). We’re swapping the mayo for Greek yogurt and sandwich bread for crispy bell peppers. Lunch rut, be gone.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-yogurt-chicken-salad-stuffed-peppers

    14. Thai Lettuce Wraps (9g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Thai-Lettuce-Wraps
    Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Thai-Lettuce-Wraps

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: low sugar, low carb

    When it comes to cutting carbs, everyone knows the trusty lettuce wrap trick. What they don’t know is that the spicy flavors of Thai cuisine are a genius way to take lunch from standard to exciting.

    Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Thai-Lettuce-Wraps

    15. Hemp-Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders (16g Carbs)

    https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/hemp-crusted-baked-chicken-tenders-recipe/
    Gimme Some Oven
    https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/hemp-crusted-baked-chicken-tenders-recipe/

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, kid-friendly

    If chicken tenders were a food group, they’d be our all-time favorite. So the fact that a diet-friendly version exists is music to our ears.

    Gimme Some Oven
    https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/hemp-crusted-baked-chicken-tenders-recipe/

    16. Chicken and Snap Pea Stir-Fry (11g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-snap-pea-stir-fry-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-snap-pea-stir-fry-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, gluten free

    If you can carve out 20 minutes on Sunday night for meal-prep, you’ll have healthy, ready-to-eat lunches prepared for the whole week.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-snap-pea-stir-fry-recipe

    17. Taco Cauliflower Rice Bowls (17g Carbs)

    https://thecleaneatingcouple.com/taco-cauliflower-rice-bowls/
    The Clean Eating Couple
    https://thecleaneatingcouple.com/taco-cauliflower-rice-bowls/

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein

    You know that when it comes to tacos, it’s what’s inside that counts. With tasty cilantro cauliflower rice and all the fixings, you won’t even miss the tortillas.

    The Clean Eating Couple
    https://thecleaneatingcouple.com/taco-cauliflower-rice-bowls/

    18. Summer Chipotle Chicken Cobb Salad with Cilantro Vinaigrette (11g Carbs)

    https://pinchofyum.com/summer-chipotle-chicken-cobb-salad-with-cilantro-vinaigrette
    Pinch of Yum
    https://pinchofyum.com/summer-chipotle-chicken-cobb-salad-with-cilantro-vinaigrette

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: make ahead

    There’s something about a cobb salad that makes us feel fancy even when we’re eating at our desk. This one has strawberries, avocado and corn to boot. Prep the toppings ahead of time and you can assemble as needed.

    Pinch of Yum
    https://pinchofyum.com/summer-chipotle-chicken-cobb-salad-with-cilantro-vinaigrette

    19. Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken and Shredded Brussels Bowls (19g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-stir-fried-chicken-brussels-sprouts-bowls
    Skinnytaste One and Done
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-stir-fried-chicken-brussels-sprouts-bowls

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein

    Brussels sprouts in a stir-fry? Why the heck not? The way they get all caramelized and crispy around the edges is *chef’s kiss.* The recipe makes enough for two, so double it if you want more leftovers.

    Skinnytaste One and Done
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-stir-fried-chicken-brussels-sprouts-bowls

    20. Quiche with Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Crust (15g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/quiche-gluten-free-sweet-potato-crust
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/quiche-gluten-free-sweet-potato-crust

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, gluten free

    Ditch the traditional crust and you’ve got yourself a low-carb slice of heaven. We’re filling our version with kale, but if you’re in the mood for a fridge cleanout, any green will work.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/quiche-gluten-free-sweet-potato-crust

    21. Mini Eggplant Pizzas (13g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/eggplant-pizza-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/eggplant-pizza-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: gluten free, beginner-friendly, make ahead

    You’ve heard of cauliflower pizza crust…but what about eggplant pizza crust? You can easily make these babies the night before, then heat them up the next day for a satisfying low-carb lunch.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/eggplant-pizza-recipe

    22. Keto Pasta with Lemon-Kale Chicken (9g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-pasta-lemon-kale-chicken
    Dana Carpender/The Keto for One Cookbook
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-pasta-lemon-kale-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <15 minutes

    Ever heard of shirataki noodles? They’re made from yams, high in fiber and low in calories. The secret to making the meal extra easy is to buy kale from the grocery-store salad bar so you don’t even have to cook it. And if you’re not into chicken thighs, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast too.

    Dana Carpender/The Keto for One Cookbook
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-pasta-lemon-kale-chicken

    23. Mediterranean Tuna Salad (12g Carbs)

    https://lexiscleankitchen.com/mediterranean-tuna-salad/
    Lexi’s Clean Kitchen
    https://lexiscleankitchen.com/mediterranean-tuna-salad/

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, gluten free, dairy free

    This upgraded tuna salad is tossed in a light red wine vinaigrette that will have your coworkers jealous that they didn’t bring tuna to the office.

    Lexi’s Clean Kitchen
    https://lexiscleankitchen.com/mediterranean-tuna-salad/

    24. Kung Pao Chicken (17g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kung-pao-chicken
    Stir-Fry
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kung-pao-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, <15 minutes

    This takeout main uses a single skillet and only requires ten minutes to prep, plus you can make the sauce up to two months in advance. Use the hour of marinating to catch up on your Netflix queue.

    Stir-Fry
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kung-pao-chicken

    25. Baked Sesame-Ginger Salmon in Parchment (21g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sesame-ginger-salmon-in-parchment
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sesame-ginger-salmon-in-parchment

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: make ahead, <30 minutes, dairy free

    Our motto, forever and always? Make it ahead. This 30-minute dish will leave you with minimal cleanup too, so you won’t even mind a little weekend meal-prep.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sesame-ginger-salmon-in-parchment

    26. Sheet Pan Lemon Butter Veggies and Sausage (18g Carbs)

    http://www.purewow.com/recipes/sheet-pan-lemon-garlic-butter-sausage
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    http://www.purewow.com/recipes/sheet-pan-lemon-garlic-butter-sausage

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, gluten free

    A hands-off, low-carb dish that cooks on a single sheet pan? This one checks all the boxes. And because it makes six servings, you’ll have enough for the week and then some.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    http://www.purewow.com/recipes/sheet-pan-lemon-garlic-butter-sausage

    27. Cold Lemon Zoodles (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cold-lemon-zoodles-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cold-lemon-zoodles-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, <10 ingredients

    Zucchini noodles come to the rescue yet again, and we’re not mad about it—especially since this versatile, light lunch comes together in only 20 minutes.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cold-lemon-zoodles-recipe

    28. Cacio e Pepe Cauliflower (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cacio-e-pepe-cauliflower
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cacio-e-pepe-cauliflower

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, gluten free

    Oh hey, lunch of our dreams. We’ll be eating you every day for the rest of forever. (It’s like fancy mac and cheese, minus the noodles.)

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cacio-e-pepe-cauliflower

    29. Zoodle Stir-Fry (18g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zoodle-stir-fry-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zoodle-stir-fry-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 22 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, beginner-friendly

    Why do we love stir-fries? Their versatility and lightning-fast cook time, for starters. Plus, this dish is packed with so many veggies, you won’t even miss the rice.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zoodle-stir-fry-recipe

    30. Za’atar Chicken Bowls with Tomato and Cucumber Raita (5.5g Carbs)

    https://www.cottercrunch.com/paleo-meal-prep-zaatar-chicken-raita/
    Cotter Crunch
    https://www.cottercrunch.com/paleo-meal-prep-zaatar-chicken-raita/

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour
    • Why I Love It: gluten free, high protein

    If you thought watching your carbohydrate intake meant eating bland steamed veggies and plain chicken, we present this Middle Eastern-inspired bowl to change your mind.

    Cotter Crunch
    https://www.cottercrunch.com/paleo-meal-prep-zaatar-chicken-raita/

    31. Cauliflower Fried Rice with Crispy Tofu (21.5g Carbs)

    https://pinchofyum.com/15-minute-meal-prep-cauliflower-fried-rice-with-crispy-tofu
    Pinch of Yum
    https://pinchofyum.com/15-minute-meal-prep-cauliflower-fried-rice-with-crispy-tofu

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, make ahead

    Oh, cauliflower. What would we do without you? Certainly not make this 30-minute meal-prep recipe…or show it off to everyone in the office.

    Pinch of Yum
    https://pinchofyum.com/15-minute-meal-prep-cauliflower-fried-rice-with-crispy-tofu

    32. Zucchini Noodle Pad See Ew (22g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zucchini-noodle-pad-see-ew
    Liz Moody/Healthier Together
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zucchini-noodle-pad-see-ew

    • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, low carb

    This healthy spin on a Thai favorite tosses wide zucchini noodles (instead of traditional rice noodles) in a gingery, garlicky sauce you’ll go gaga for.

    Liz Moody/Healthier Together
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zucchini-noodle-pad-see-ew

    33. 20-Minute Paleo Egg Roll Bowls (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/20-minute-paleo-egg-roll-bowls
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/20-minute-paleo-egg-roll-bowls

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein

    All of the eating and none of the assembly? Yes, please. If you’re not yet on the egg roll bowl train (it’s a thing), now’s the time.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/20-minute-paleo-egg-roll-bowls

    34. Honey Mustard Sheet Pan Salmon (23g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-sheet-pan-salmon
    Aubrie Pick/Eat What You Love
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-sheet-pan-salmon

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, high protein

    This simple sheet-pan recipe will convert you into a seafood-for-lunch person for sure. (The key is not to heat it up in the microwave.)

    Aubrie Pick/Eat What You Love
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-sheet-pan-salmon

    35. 40-Minute Saag Paneer (14g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/saag-paneer
    Swayampurna Mishra/My Indian Kitchen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/saag-paneer

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: vegetarian, low sugar, <500 calories

    This Indian staple is loaded with yummy spices, and the leftovers get better and more flavorful the longer they sit in the fridge.

    Swayampurna Mishra/My Indian Kitchen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/saag-paneer

    36. Vegan Keto Coconut Curry (10g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-keto-coconut-curry
    Helene Dujardin/The Essential Vegan Keto Cookbook
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-keto-coconut-curry

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: keto, low sugar, vegan

    Plant-based? Check. Keto-friendly? Check. We knew there was a reason we liked this diet. This bowl is enhanced with protein powder and stevia, but you can leave both out if they’re not your thing.

    Helene Dujardin/The Essential Vegan Keto Cookbook
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-keto-coconut-curry

    37. Cumin Beef Stir-Fry (10g Carbs)

    http://www.thedefineddish.com/cumin-beef-stir-fry/
    The Defined Dish
    http://www.thedefineddish.com/cumin-beef-stir-fry/

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: gluten free, high protein

    This Sichuan-style dish is spicy, aromatic and surprisingly easy to make. All you need is a searing-hot wok (or skillet) and an appetite.

    The Defined Dish
    http://www.thedefineddish.com/cumin-beef-stir-fry/

    38. Gochujang Chicken Stir-Fry (22g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gochujang-chicken-stir-fry
    Stir-Fry
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gochujang-chicken-stir-fry

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, one pan

    Have you tried gochujang yet? The Korean chili paste is packed with funky flavor, and it’s the key to this quick chicken dish.

    Stir-Fry
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gochujang-chicken-stir-fry

    39. Keto Chicken Pesto Burgers (3g Carbs)

    https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-chicken-pesto-burgers/
    Hey Keto Mama
    https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-chicken-pesto-burgers/

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: low carb, keto, high protein

    We’ve found the definition of “no bun, no problem,” and it’s these protein-packed burgers. Serve ’em on a bed of spinach and don’t forget the cheese.

    Hey Keto Mama
    https://www.heyketomama.com/keto-chicken-pesto-burgers/

    40. 15-Minute Skillet Pepper Steak (12g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/fifteen-minute-skillet-pepper-steak
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/fifteen-minute-skillet-pepper-steak

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, <15 minutes, <500 calories

    Give us a skillet and we’ll give you a reason to be excited for tomorrow’s lunch. This low-calorie dish takes less time to make than it does to order delivery.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/fifteen-minute-skillet-pepper-steak

    41. Lemon Salmon with Garlic and Thyme (3g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-salmon
    PureWow Editors
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-salmon

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly

    Not only does this low-carb recipe only require six ingredients, but it’s also ready in 25 minutes.

    Photo/Styling: Katherine Gillen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/lemon-salmon

    42. Zoodles with Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella (22g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zoodles-with-tomato-sauce-and-mozzarella-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zoodles-with-tomato-sauce-and-mozzarella-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, <30 minutes, vegetarian

    If you miss the pasta (which, TBH, we doubt you will), compensate by treating yourself to extra fresh mozz. You deserve it.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zoodles-with-tomato-sauce-and-mozzarella-recipe

    43. Shrimp with Cauliflower “Grits” and Arugula (13g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-and-cauliflower-grits
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-and-cauliflower-grits

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, high protein

    Yup, we’ll definitely be whipping up those goat cheese grits for breakfast, too. (Aren’t you glad bacon and eggs are keto?)

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-and-cauliflower-grits

    44. Keto Sheet Pan Chicken and Rainbow Veggies (35g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-sheet-pan-chicken-rainbow-veggies
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-sheet-pan-chicken-rainbow-veggies

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, high protein

    This dish contains a little more than a quarter of your daily recommended fiber. (Subtract those 6 grams of fiber from the total carbs and you’re down to 29g net carbs per plate.)

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-sheet-pan-chicken-rainbow-veggies

    45. Warm Ginger-Scallion Pork & Kale Salad (19g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/warm-ginger-scallion-pork-kale-salad
    Kelsey Preciado/Unbelievabowl Paleo
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/warm-ginger-scallion-pork-kale-salad

    • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <15 minutes, Paleo

    If you find kale tough to eat raw, sautéing it in honey-ginger dressing will be a major help. Coconut aminos is a popular soy sauce replacement in Paleo cooking, but if you’re not Paleo, you could also swap regular or low-sodium soy sauce or tamari in the dressing without issue.

    Kelsey Preciado/Unbelievabowl Paleo
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/warm-ginger-scallion-pork-kale-salad

    46. Keto Instant Pot Greek Cauliflower Rice (6g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-greek-cauliflower-rice
    Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-greek-cauliflower-rice

    • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: Instant Pot recipe, keto

    BRB, eating our weight in feta and kalamata olives. Plain cauli rice is kind of a snooze, but adding tons of flavorful vegetables is an easy fix. (P.S., low-carb pita bread exists at your grocery store.)

    Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-greek-cauliflower-rice

    47. Everything Chicken Wings (1g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/everything-chicken-wings
    MELLISSA SEVIGNY/SQUEAKY CLEAN KETO
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/everything-chicken-wings

    • Time Commitment: 55 minutes
    • Why I Love It: low carb, high protein, crowd-pleaser

    Consider these your newest go-to Super Bowl appetizer. Save time by using store-bought everything bagel seasoning instead of mixing up your own.

    MELLISSA SEVIGNY/SQUEAKY CLEAN KETO
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/everything-chicken-wings

    48. Camarones al Mojo de Ajo (3g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-in-garlic-sauce
    Esteban Castillo/Chicano Eats
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-in-garlic-sauce

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <15 minutes, <10 ingredients, high protein

    Serve these garlic shrimp over cauliflower rice or low-carb pasta if you must. But they taste downright divine all by themselves.

    Esteban Castillo/Chicano Eats
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-in-garlic-sauce

    49. Spicy Lemon-Ginger Chicken Soup (12g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-lemon-ginger-chicken-soup
    Photo: Nico Schinco/Styling: Aran Goyoaga
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-lemon-ginger-chicken-soup

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: make ahead, high protein, <500 calories

    We love this soup for its simplicity, but it’s also totally customizable. Try kale instead of spinach, or add a little bit of rice for a richer version. One slurp and you’ll never look at canned chicken noodle soup the same way again.

    Photo: Nico Schinco/Styling: Aran Goyoaga
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-lemon-ginger-chicken-soup

    50. Cauliflower Fried Rice (23g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-fried-rice
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-fried-rice

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <30 minutes, gluten free

    A runny egg will never do you wrong, especially atop this takeout staple. If you don’t feel like making your own cauliflower rice, shortcut it by buying the packaged kind.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-fried-rice

    51. Tuna Salad with Yogurt, Capers and Za’atar (2g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tuna-salad-yogurt-capers-zaatar
    Romas Foord/Sea Salt and Honey
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tuna-salad-yogurt-capers-zaatar

    • Time Commitment: 5 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <15 minutes, high protein

    This O.G. lunch deserves the glow-up of a lifetime. Creamy Greek yogurt, briny capers and a few pantry staples can no doubt transform canned tuna into something spectacular.

    Romas Foord/Sea Salt and Honey
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tuna-salad-yogurt-capers-zaatar

    52. Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings (3g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/buffalo-wings
    Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/buffalo-wings

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly

    One bite, and you’ll be making these baked beauties for every game day you ever host. Serve them with a green salad and plenty of blue cheese or ranch dressing.

    Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/buffalo-wings

    53. Poached Egg with Frisée and Arugula Salad (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/poached-egg-frisee-arugula-salad
    Tara Donne/Cooking Solo
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/poached-egg-frisee-arugula-salad

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: low sugar, <15 minutes

    It turns out that all it takes to make a restaurant-quality poached egg is a dash of vinegar. It helps the egg white set neatly.

    Tara Donne/Cooking Solo
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/poached-egg-frisee-arugula-salad

    54. Salmon with Pesto and Blistered Tomatoes (11g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-pesto-blistered-tomatoes
    Elizabeth Van Lierde & Abagail Halstead/Everyday Entertaining
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-pesto-blistered-tomatoes

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, sheet pan recipe

    You’re only six ingredients and 35 minutes away from this stunning seafood dish, thanks to easy store-bought pesto. Plate it over greens or zucchini rice to keep the carbs low.

    Elizabeth Van Lierde & Abagail Halstead/Everyday Entertaining
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-pesto-blistered-tomatoes

    55. Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken (6g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-keto-indian-butter-chicken
    Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-keto-indian-butter-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: Instant Pot recipe, <30 minutes, high protein

    This pressure cooker wonder is packed with protein and flavor, thanks to a mélange of warm spices and coconut cream.

    Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-keto-indian-butter-chicken

    Related: 45 Keto Chicken Recipes You’ve Never Tried

    Categories
    Food

    The 8 Best Low-Sugar Ice Creams That Will Satisfy Your Craving, Based on Our Taste Test

    Vanilla and chocolate might have seemed like the only ice cream flavors that mattered when we were kids, but in 2024, there are a zillion flavors to explore in the freezer aisle. And many of them happen to be keto, lactose-free, non-dairy and, perhaps most intriguing of all, low-sugar. But just because the options are plentiful doesn’t mean they’re all worth the buy. (In fact, if you’ve been freezer-burned by “healthy” ice cream in the past, you know all too well that they can be icy in texture, off in flavor and near impossible to scoop.) So, we tried more than 30 low-sugar ice creams to bring you the best of the best. Read on for our top picks.

    (Note: An average half-cup serving of regular ice cream contains 12 to 24 grams of added sugar.)

    Related: We Taste-Tested 11 of the Best Vanilla Ice Cream Brands & Graded Them from ‘Passable’ to ‘Ate the Whole Pint’

    How We Chose the Best Low-Sugar Ice Creams

    Depending on the base (traditional ice cream is made with cream and milk, but there are many brands that use nondairy alternatives, like oat, coconut or almond milks, as well as more unexpected ingredients, like beans or avocado oil), low-sugar ice creams can be a gamble. Some are frosty and crystallized in texture, others smooth and silky like the real thing. Another thing to consider is that some use less real sugar than other brands, while some substitute sugar alcohols or sugar-free sweeteners to keep the sugar content low while maintaining an authentic flavor. Whatever is used, low-sugar ice cream should ideally be as creamy, smooth and tasty as possible.

    To uncover the best low-sugar ice creams, we scoured the internet (and surveyed our sundae-loving staff) for their favorite brands and varieties. Then, we nabbed a few flavors from more than 15 brands and tasted them. After choosing our favorites from each, we ranked them on five factors:

    • Value: Is the low-sugar ice cream worth what it costs given the ingredients and taste?
    • Quality: Is the low-sugar ice cream made with authentic ingredients? Is it full of fillers or preservatives?
    • Flavor: Is the low-sugar ice cream tasty? Does it taste like the label says it should?
    • Texture: Is the low-sugar ice cream creamy, smooth and silky? Are there ice crystals in it?
    • Scoopability: Is it easy to scoop? How long do you need to wait for it to soften before you can run an ice cream scoop through it? Does it melt at a rapid pace? For non-scoopable ice creams, like bars and sandwiches, are they soft enough to bite into right away? Do you need to wait for them to thaw before eating?

    The 8 Best Low-Sugar Ice Creams

    1. Turkey Hill No Sugar Added Vanilla Bean

    Best Low-Sugar Vanilla Ice Cream
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instacart.com%2Flanding%3Fproduct_id%3D27866365&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Instacart
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instacart.com%2Flanding%3Fproduct_id%3D27866365&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Turkey Hill
    4
    • Value: 20/20
    • Quality: 17/20
    • Flavor: 18/20
    • Texture: 18/20
    • Scoopability: 18/20

    TOTAL: 91/100

    Let’s start with old faithful, shall we? When in doubt (or when serving brownies, pie, cake—you get the picture), vanilla is an easy win. This is Turkey Hill’s singular option with no added sugar, and it also happens to be fat-free. (Each serving contains 8 grams of sugar from the milk.) It’s made with nonfat milk and real vanilla bean, but the rest of the ingredients are sugar alcohols, thickeners and caramel color. While it doesn’t exactly taste like regular ice cream, it’s still creamy, clean and vanilla-y. Its texture is soft and rich, but it’s best to wait a few minutes before scooping.

    • Per ⅔-Cup Serving: 100 calories, 0g fat, 26g carbs, 8g sugar, 0g added sugars, 4g protein
    • Where to Buy: ACME, Instacart, Walmart

    2. Rebel Creamery Triple Chocolate

    Best Low-Sugar Chocolate Ice Cream
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instacart.com%2Flanding%3Fproduct_id%3D20244600&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Instacart/Background: amguy/Getty Images
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instacart.com%2Flanding%3Fproduct_id%3D20244600&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Rebel Creamery
    6
    • Value: 18/20
    • Quality: 18/20
    • Flavor: 18/20
    • Texture: 18/20
    • Scoopability: 18/20

    TOTAL: 90/100

    If you’re sensitive to lactose, on the keto diet or can only eat sugar-free ice cream, Rebel Creamery is worth considering. Made with real cream, egg yolks, erythritol, monk fruit and gums for texture, these pints contain a few grams of protein and fiber in every serving (this particular flavor has 3 grams and 6 grams, respectively). Their high fat content also makes them an especially good choice for low-carb or keto dieters. We loved the Triple Chocolate variety because of its intense Dutch cocoa flavor and the crunchy chocolate flakes, but wish it was a little easier to scoop and less frosty.

    • Per ⅔-Cup Serving: 190 calories, 18g fat, 19g carbs, 0g sugar, 11g sugar alcohol, 3g protein
    • Where to Buy: Amazon, Target, Walmart

    3. Nick’s Strawbär Swirl

    Best Low-Sugar Fruit-Flavored Ice Cream
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instacart.com%2Flanding%3Fproduct_id%3D21159928&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Walmart
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instacart.com%2Flanding%3Fproduct_id%3D21159928&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Nick’s
    5
    • Value: 20/20
    • Quality: 18/20
    • Flavor: 19/20
    • Texture: 19/20
    • Scoopability: 18/20

    TOTAL: 94/100

    We taste-tested Nick’s Swedish-style light ice creams when they first launched, and this fruity flavor was our favorite of the lot. You seriously would have no clue that it wasn’t regular ice cream, thanks to each pint being made with a mix of plant-based sweeteners like stevia, corn fiber, birch sugar and allulose. (Each serving contains less than 1 gram of sugar.) Despite being made with skim milk, the ice cream has a luxuriously thick, creamy texture, courtesy of a plant-based fat called EPG. The vanilla ice cream swirled with ribbons of strawberry tastes like the O.G., but we wish the strawberry was thicker and more prominent.

    • Per ⅔-Cup Serving: 90 calories, 5g fat, 22g carbs, 1g sugar, 5g sugar alcohol, 3g protein
    • Where to Buy: ACME, Instacart, Walmart

    4. Cado Java Chip Avocado Frozen Dessert

    Best Low-Sugar Coffee Ice Cream
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instacart.com%2Fproducts%2F19801521-cado-avocado-frozen-dessert-non-dairy-java-chip-1-pt&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Cado
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instacart.com%2Fproducts%2F19801521-cado-avocado-frozen-dessert-non-dairy-java-chip-1-pt&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Cado
    8
    • Value: 17/20
    • Quality: 19/20
    • Flavor: 18/20
    • Texture: 19/20
    • Scoopability: 19/20

    TOTAL: 92/100

    “This ice cream is made with organic avocado purée” is a sentence we never expected to utter, but hey, it’s 2024—of course avo ice cream is a thing. Cado’s offerings average around 12 grams of sugar (some from the avocado) per serving, less than many big brands on the market. It’s also lower in calories, free of sugar alcohols and artificial flavorings and made with avocado instead of dairy, meaning it’s loaded with healthy fats, which in turn keep the ice cream easy to scoop and silky in texture. Of the flavors we tried, we most enjoyed the latte-like Java Chip, made with chocolate flakes, organic coffee and a touch of sea salt.

    • Per ⅔-Cup Serving: 220 calories, 13g fat, 25g carbs, 16g sugar, g sugar alcohol, 1g protein
    • Where to Buy: Cado, Instacart, Whole Foods Market

    6. So Delicious Dairy Free Vanilla Bean Coconutmilk Sandwiches

    Best Low-Sugar Ice Cream Sandwiches
    https://howl.me/clzx8IYp3DB
    So Delicious
    https://howl.me/clzx8IYp3DB
    So Delicious
    8
    • Value: 19/20
    • Quality: 18/20
    • Flavor: 20/20
    • Texture: 19/20
    • Scoopability: 20/20

    TOTAL: 96/100

    As far as dairy-free, vegan treats go, this pick from So Delicious just might be the tastiest we’ve ever tried. Starring non-dairy coconutmilk frozen dessert—thickened with pea protein, locust bean gum and guar gum and sweetened with organic cane sugar—these sammies are as indulgent as they are fresh tasting. There’s no off-putting stickiness around the edges and no weird taste in the cookies, which are made with cocoa, wheat flour, cane sugar and organic brown rice syrup. As long as you like the taste of coconut, these are worth the buy. They aren’t sugar free, but each only contains 7 grams, so you’ll just need to keep from devouring the whole box in one sitting (which is harder than it seems).

    • Per Sandwich: 100 calories, 4g fat, 14g carbs, 7g sugar, 1g protein
    • Where to Buy: ACME, Target, Walmart

    7. Yasso Chocolate Fudge Greek Yogurt Bars

    Best Low-Sugar Ice Cream Bar
    https://howl.me/clzyasjG7RA
    Target
    https://howl.me/clzyasjG7RA
    7
    • Value: 18/20
    • Quality: 18/20
    • Flavor: 19/20
    • Texture: 20/20
    • Scoopability: 19/20

    TOTAL: 94/100

    TBH, these taste almost identical to the Fudgesicles of our youth, only with a bonus 5 grams of protein. (Thanks, Greek yogurt.) We’ve tried our fair share of flavors from this brand, and this one tastes the most like regular ice cream. Each of these Yasso bars, flavored with Dutch cocoa, contains 12 grams of sugar, but only 8 of those are added (no artificial sweeteners here)—the rest are from milk and yogurt. The bars also contain gums for texture, yet the yogurt doesn’t need much help in the richness department. It’s chocolatey without being cloying, but it’s the texture that will keep you coming back for another lick.

    • Per Bar: 80 calories, 0g fat, 15g total carbs, 12g sugar, 8g added sugar, 5g protein
    • Where to Buy: ACME, Instacart, Target, Walmart

    8. Chloe’s Oatmilk Cookies and Cream Pops

    Best Low-Sugar, Non-Dairy Ice Cream Bar
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.freshdirect.com%2Ffro%2Ffro_icecr%2Fsc%2Ffro_icecr_pops%2Fp%2Ffro_pid_3503890&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Chloe’s
    https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.freshdirect.com%2Ffro%2Ffro_icecr%2Fsc%2Ffro_icecr_pops%2Fp%2Ffro_pid_3503890&xcust=best%20low%20sugar%20ice%20cream
    Chloe’s
    8
    • Value: 18/20
    • Quality: 18/20
    • Flavor: 18/20
    • Texture: 18/20
    • Scoopability: 19/20

    TOTAL: 91/100

    Ice cream bars that aren’t made with real milk often have the texture of ice pops, meaning they’re frostier than they are creamy. But these kid-friendly pops from Chloe’s surprised us, as they deliver sophisticated sweetness and only slight iciness in every bite. Their mild flavor will satisfy the vanilla lovers in your house, while little ones will especially enjoy the chocolatey cookie pieces. Both the oatmilk base and the cookies are sweetened with cane sugar, so each bar contains 11 grams. Not only are they dairy-free, but the cookie crumbs are also made without wheat flour, so gluten-free snackers can get in on the goods, too.

    • Per Bar: 120 calories, 5g fat, 17g carbs, 12g sugar, 11g added sugar, 2g protein
    • Where to Buy: ACME, DoorDash, FreshDirect

    Honorable Mentions

    Does No Sugar Added Mean Sugar Free?

    Not necessarily, because added sugar is different than naturally occurring sugar. “Sugar free” (as well as “no sugar” or “zero sugar”) means that one serving of the food or drink contains less than .5 grams of sugar, whether it’s natural or added. “No sugar added” simply means that no sugar (or an ingredient containing sugar) was added to the food or drink during processing or packaging, says the American Heart Association.

    Can Diabetics Eat Sugar-Free Ice Cream?

    Yes. Low-sugar and sugar-free ice creams are a great option for diabetics because they won’t impact their blood sugar as much as regular ice cream, says Healthline. (Though you may want to check with your doctor before indulging.)

    Related: 11 Low-Sugar Cereals, So You Can Enjoy Your Fave Cereal Without an Energy Crash

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    The PureWow100 is a scale our editors use to vet new products and services, so you know what’s worth the spend and what’s total hype. Learn more about our process here.

    Categories
    Food

    Hungry for Low-Carb Fast Food? Here Are 15 Options We Love, from McDonald’s to Chipotle

    Burgers, fries, crispy chicken—we love ’em all, but if you’re keeping carbs to a minimum, these fast-food classics are off the table (at least without modifications). Luckily, there’s plenty of low-carb fast food out there to enjoy, whether you’re craving on-the-go breakfast, salad or soup. Here, you’ll find 15 popular options from your favorite chains that are sure to satisfy. We’re talking a lettuce-wrapped ShackBurger from Shake Shack, Chick-Fil-A Grilled Nuggets, Chipotle’s Wholesome Bowl and beyond.

    Related: The 20 Best High-Protein Fast Food Meals You Can Eat

    1. McDonald’s Egg McMuffin (3g Carbs with no English muffin)

    McDonald’s

    • Modified Nutritional Information: 170 calories, 12g fat, 3g carbs, 12g protein, 1g sugar, 0g fiber

    This lightning-fast brekkie is relatively low in calories and high in protein, making it a solid way to start the day. The English muffin contains 27 grams of carbs, so as long as you skip it, you’re in the clear. Bring your favorite low-carb bun or wrap to the McDonald’s drive-thru or eat the fillings with a fork instead. If you want to make the sammy leaner, skip the butter on the English muffin.

    2. Arby’s Roast Chicken Entrée Salad (8g Carbs)

    Arby’s

    • Nutritional Information: 250 calories, 14g fat, 8g carbs, 25g protein, 4g sugar, 3g fiber

    While many fast-food salads are just chicken nuggets on a bed of lettuce, this gem from Arby’s is topped with grilled chicken. Black pepper bacon, tomato, cheddar cheese and ranch dressing round things out for a filling lunch (or dinner). Best of all, you won’t need to modify the menu item to make it low-carb.

    3. Shake Shack Shackburger, Lettuce Wrap (2g Carbs)

    Nhat V. Meyer/Digital First Media/The Mercury News Via Getty Images

    • Nutritional Information: 320 calories, 24g fat, 2g carbs, 21g protein, 1g sugar, 0g fiber

    As far as low-carb fast food goes, skipping the bun is the easiest hack across the board. Luckily, you can ask for any Shake Shack sandwich to be served on a crispy lettuce wrap instead of bread to keep the carbs to a minimum, reducing the overall count by 24 grams. Pile on the Shack Sauce (or fine, ketchup) if you dare.

    4. Chick-Fil-A 8-Piece Grilled Nuggets (1g Carbs)

    Chick-Fil-A

    • Nutritional Information: 130 calories, 3g fat, 1g carbs, 25g protein, 0g sugar, 1g fiber

    True life: We love chicken nuggets. Chick-Fil-A is one of the few chains that offers a grilled version of the kid-friendly meal, which is far lower in carbs than its breaded predecessor. Plus, this better-for-you riff contains 25 grams of protein in an eight-piece serving and only 3 grams of fat, compared to 11 grams in the fried kind.

    5. Dunkin’ Wake-Up Wrap with Turkey Sausage (15g Carbs)

    Dunkin’

    • Nutritional Information: 240 calories, 15g fat, 15g carbs, 11g protein, 1g sugar, 0g fiber

    We know it’s hard to pass up a doughnut at Dunkin’, but if you’re eating low-carb, the confection is unfortunately off limits. On the other hand, this lighter morning wrap contains 11 grams of protein (shoutout to egg, turkey sausage and cheese) and just 240 calories. Worth getting out of bed for, no?

    6. Taco Bell Soft Taco (17g Carbs)

    Taco Bell

    • Nutritional Information: 180 calories, 9g fat, 17g carbs, 9g protein, 1g sugar, 3g fiber

    Taco Bell’s traditional ground beef soft taco has a good ratio of protein to everything else, even if you order two to make it a more filling meal. With no modifications, the taco contains 17 grams of carbs, thanks to the flour tortilla. Still, that’s low enough to keep you in ketosis if you’re on keto, as long as you mindfully choose the rest of your meals for the day. (P.S.: If you wanna throw carbs to the wind, we’d pair it with a Baja Blast.)

    7. Wendy’s 4-Piece Spicy Chicken Nuggets (9g Carbs)

    Wendy’s

    • Nutritional Information: 190 calories, 12g fat, 9g carbs, 10g protein, 0g sugar, 1g fiber

    Even strict keto dieters can eat up to 20 grams of carbs a day (many eat even more). A small order of Wendy’s nuggets—spicy or original—only contains 9 grams of carbs, so this fan favorite is still on the table, despite its crispy breading. (FYI, the six- and ten-piece nuggets contain 13 and 22 net carbs respectively.) To keep the carbs to a minimum, avoid sugary dips like ketchup, BBQ sauce and Sweet & Sour.

    8. Egg White & Roasted Red Pepper Egg Bites (11g Carbs)

    Starbucks

    • Nutritional Information: 170 calories, 8g fat, 11g carbs, 12g protein, 3g sugar, 0g fiber

    You have your sugar-free, low-carb Starbucks order down to a science (looking at you, tall heavy cream cappuccino). But what are you going to nosh on between sips? Turn to these protein-packed sous vide egg bites, made with cage-free egg whites, Monterey Jack cheese, spinach and fire-roasted red peppers. They’re vegetarian to boot.

    9. Wendy’s Parmesan Caesar Salad (7g Carbs)

    Wendy’s

    • Nutritional Information (includes dressing packet): 440 calories, 28g fat, 7g carbs, 42g protein, 3g sugar, 3g fiber

    Take the fiber into account, and this Wendy’s salad contains only 4 net carbs sans-modifications. A mix of romaine lettuce, grilled chicken breast, Italian cheeses and creamy Caesar dressing, this low-carb fast food option is tasty and satisfying. One clever substitute that keeps the fat and protein high and the carbs low? Swap the traditional croutons for crunchy Parmesan crisps. (BTW, the Southwest Avocado Salad, piled high with lettuce, pepper Jack cheese, tomatoes, avocado, bacon, grilled chicken and Southwest ranch dressing, is a close second at 10 net carbs.)

    10. Chick-Fil-A Kale Crunch Side Salad (8g Carbs)

    Chick-Fil-A

    • Nutritional information: 120 calories, 9g fat, 8g carbs, 3g protein, 8g sugar, 2g fiber

    If you’re trying to up your daily intake of greens (aren’t we all?), this blend of curly kale and green cabbage dressed in an apple cider mustard vinaigrette is waiting for you at Chick-Fil-A. You could leave off the almonds for two grams fewer total carbs, but they’re adding extra fat macros that are helpful for staying in ketosis (if you’re on keto, that is).

    11. Chipotle Wholesome Bowl (18g Carbs)

    Chipotle

    • Nutritional Information: 460 calories, 29g fat, 18g carbs, 35g protein, 4g sugar, 9g fiber

    Chipotle’s claim to fame is how customizable all their menu items are, so it’s easy to order low-carb fast food there. This grain-free option is Paleo-, keto- and Whole30-friendly. Think of it as a souped-up salad, made with a base of romaine, baby kale and spinach, chicken, fajita veggies, tomato salsa and guacamole—no rice or beans in sight.

    12. Subway Buffalo Chicken No Bready Bowl (13g Carbs)

    Subway

    • Nutritional Information: 380 calories, 21g fat, 13g carbs, 36g protein, 7g sugar, 4g fiber

    When it comes to low-carb fast food, Subway’s No Bready Bowls are a solid, fuss-free option. They’re basically sandwich bowls that feature all your favorite fixings, minus the bread. We’re partial to the spicy Buffalo chicken option, which includes grilled chicken, your choice of cheese, lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, black olives, red onions, Buffalo sauce and peppercorn ranch dressing.

    13. McDonald’s McDouble (3g Carbs with no bun or ketchup)

    McDonald’s

    • Modified Nutritional Information: 240 calories, 18g fat, 3g carbs, 17g protein, 0g sugar, 0g fiber

    This fast food icon stars two beef patties, American cheese, pickle slices, ketchup, onions and mustard. The bun is the source of most of the burger’s carbs (28 grams), but the ketchup also clocks in at 2 grams of carbs and 2 grams of sugar per serving. Without them, the meal is totally keto-friendly. Ask for a large leaf of lettuce (or bring your own) to make a low-carb fast food wrap or sub your favorite low-carb bun, if you’d prefer it to feel like a regular burger. (Note that there are plenty of burger options at McDonald’s, and they’re all fair game if you order them bunless. As for the Big Mac, you may want to skip the Big Mac sauce if you’re strictly keto, since it contains 2 grams of carbs per serving, like ketchup.)

    14. Taco Bell Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco (12g Carbs)

    Taco Bell

    • Nutritional Information: 170 calories, 10g fat, 12g carbs, 8g protein,

    Sans substitutions, you can easily fit this cult-favorite taco into your low-carb meal plan. Savor the famously cheesy Doritos shell, filled with seasoned beef, cheddar cheese and iceberg lettuce. If you’re feeling decadent, order it supreme to add tomatoes and sour cream to the mix.

    15. Panera Bread Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup (13g Carbs)

    Panera Bread

    • Nutritional Information: 100 calories, 1g fat, 13g carbs, 9g protein, 4g sugar, 0g fiber

    This classic Panera Bread soup, made with tender white meat chicken, chicken bone broth, egg noodles, carrots, celery and herbs, is consistently comforting. Even with pasta in the mix, the soup is keto-friendly, as long as you skip the side of French baguette in favor of potato chips (which are lower in carbs than the apple option, BTW) or tomato-basil cucumber salad.

    Related: The Best Shake Shack Keto-Friendly Menu Items to Order

    Categories
    Food

    The 16 Best Keto Starbucks Drinks (That Are Way More Fun Than Black Coffee)

    If you’re newly on keto, you’re likely trying to figure out how to make your morning Starbucks order low-carb. With the cap at just 50 grams per day, it’s easy to blow half (or more) of your allotted carbohydrates on one sugary, delicious Starbucks drink. The good news? There are plenty of diet-friendly options on the menu that are more exciting than plain black coffee. The name of the game is minimizing milk and sugar, the two main sources of carbs in many Starbucks drinks. Presenting 16 keto Starbucks drinks to try on a low-carb meal plan, plus tips on how to order them. 

    Related: The Best Starbucks Holiday Drinks of 2023, Ranked (Plus Two New Bevs We Can’t Wait to Try)

    1. Hot or Iced Coffee (0g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    Hi, old reliable. When it comes to keto Starbucks drinks, plain coffee, hot or iced, is a no-brainer. It’s basically carb-free: 12 ounces, or a Starbucks tall cup, contains less than one gram of carbs. Feel free to add milk, non-dairy milk or cream to your cup.

    Starbucks

    2. Hot or Cold Coffee with Sugar-Free Syrup (1g+ Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    Here’s the thing: Sugar-free syrups are a great way to sweeten your drink without added sugar or calories, but they can contain hidden carbs that can knock you out of ketosis if used in excess. As long as you stick to two pumps (about 1g of net carbs), you’re in the clear. Sugar-free vanilla, caramel and hazelnut syrups are commonly available at Starbucks. Lighten your joe with a touch of milk, non-dairy milk or cream to boot.

    Starbucks

    3. Cold Brew Coffee (0g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    Much like drip or iced coffee, cold brew is virtually free of carbs, calories and sugar. The difference is that it’s brewed cold, which helps it retain caffeine. So, you’ll get a bigger energy boost, whether you spike it with cream and sugar-free syrup or not. If you prefer your coffee silky-smooth and creamy, order nitro cold brew instead. It’s infused with nitrogen to create sweetness without additional sugar and a deliciously velvety mouthfeel.

    4. Unsweetened Hot or Iced Tea (0g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    Tea is an easy win when it comes to ordering keto Starbucks drinks. It’s just water and tea, which are carb-free by nature. If you’re ordering iced tea, be sure to let the barista know you want it unsweetened; the default recipes include classic syrup, otherwise known as liquid sugar. If you like your tea with milk, go for a splash of heavy cream (or steamed heavy cream), which is higher in fat and lower in carbs than regular milk.

    Starbucks

    5. Espresso Shots (1g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    Like black coffee, espresso is essentially free of carbs. (We’re talking half a gram per shot.) Order yourself a doppio, meaning two shots, and sip it as is or add a splash of cream or almond milk to mellow it out, if it’s too bitter for your taste. You can even add half a pump of sugar-free syrup while you’re at it to make what’s essentially the cutest, tiniest keto latte ever.

    Starbucks

    6. Espresso con Panna (2g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    You don’t like espresso plain…but you also can’t down 12 ounces of milk first thing in the morning on keto. This modest mix of espresso and whipped cream should do the trick. Starbucks’s whipped cream is infused with vanilla syrup, so it’s already slightly sweet. It’ll melt and naturally mix into the bitter, robust shots as it sits, so the drink will become less harsh on your palate as you sip. (If you prefer steamed milk to whipped cream, ask for an Espresso Macchiato made with cream.)

    7. Hot or Iced Americano (0g Net Carbs)

    Americanos are nothing but espresso and water, so you won’t have to worry about tallying up carbs with this keto Starbucks drink. Feel free to add a pump or two of sugar-free flavoring or a splash of cream if it’s too bitter for you.

    8. Tall Latte or Cappuccino with Heavy Cream (8.5g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    Heavy cream’s carb count is lower than both half-and-half and milk. It’s also much higher in calories and fat, but that’s not necessarily a problem if you’re on the keto diet. Stick to a tall latte or cappuccino so you’ll be limited to about eight ounces of cream.

    9. Short Caffè Breve or Caffè Misto with Half-and-Half or Cream (~7g Net Carbs)

    The standard milk used for espresso drinks at Starbucks is two percent. Due to milk’s natural sugar, regular milk is too high in carbs to be keto-friendly (11g net carbs for eight ounces), unless you only have a splash or two. Ordering a breve latte (espresso topped with steamed half-and-half instead of milk) or a caffè misto (half drip coffee and half milk, but in this case, you’d use half-and-half or cream) will reduce your drink’s carbs while also upping its creaminess. Stick to about six ounces of half-and-half or cream by ordering an eight-ounce short cup.

    10. Grande Almond Flat White (2g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    If you love lattes but have never tried a flat white, it’s long overdue. This drink is a blend of espresso and steamed milk, but the milk is steamed to have microfoam, which gives it a velvety consistency. Espresso is carb-free, but the dairy definitely isn’t. So, swap in almond milk, which is lower in carbs than dairy milk at about 1 net carb per cup (at least at Starbucks—almond milks with added sugar aren’t low in carbs).

    11. Tall Low-Carb Mocha (~10-12g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    You may notice the term “skinny” on some Starbucks menus in front of lower-calorie drinks, but that doesn’t mean they’re inherently low-carb. For instance, a grande Skinny Mocha has 20g net carbs. Here are a few tweaks you can make to turn it into a keto Starbucks drink: Order a tall, use only two pumps of skinny mocha sauce and ask the barista to use almond milk or a 50/50 mix of hot water and heavy cream.

    12. Grande Keto Pink Drink (2-4g Net Carbs)

    This crafty recipe has made the rounds in online keto circles for a reason, the main one being that it’s pretty darn delicious. To order a low-carb Pink Drink, ask for an iced Passion Tango tea with up to three pumps of sugar-free vanilla syrup and a splash or two of heavy cream. (We’re betting you can do the same with the green tea if you’re craving caffeine, perhaps with a scoop of the dried pineapple that goes in the Paradise Drink?)

    13. Tall Blonde Vanilla Latte (2.5g Net Carbs) 

    Starbucks

    A tall Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte clocks in at 23 grams of carbohydrates and 22 grams of sugar. Swap the milk for cream or plant-based milk to nix about 12 grams of sugar and carbs, and opt for sugar-free vanilla syrup instead. Your new grand carb total? About 2.5 grams, if you go with almond milk. How’s that for a keto Starbucks drink?

    14. London Fog (~1g Net Carbs) 

    Starbucks

    For those who prefer tea, you can still enjoy this doctored-up Earl Grey. Choose a plant-based milk (almond is the lowest in carbs, but you can still opt for oat or soy if you’d prefer) and go easy on the sugar-free vanilla syrup. A pump will cost you a carb. 

    15. Tall Keto Frappuccino (3g Net Carbs) 

    Starbucks

    Love Frappuccinos? Well, have your cake and eat it too, friend. This secret menu hack starts with the Espresso Frappuccino and makes the following tweaks: Ask for a tall, then request no Frappuccino base or the usual syrups. Instead, substitute two pumps of sugar-free vanilla syrup and two shot glasses of heavy cream. Ask them to blend it Frappuccino-style and voilà. (For a script of exactly what to say when you order this keto Starbucks drink, check out this guide from Hip2Keto.)

    16. Keto Hot Chai (~2-4g Net Carbs)

    Starbucks

    This keto Starbucks drink is actually pretty ingenious. Instead of ordering your usual chai latte, which comes sweetened and is made of mostly milk, ask for a hot chai tea with a few fingers of heavy cream. If you prefer it sweet, add a couple pumps of sugar-free vanilla syrup too. You’ll get the creamy, warm-spiced bev you crave with a fraction of the sugar and calories.

    Related: These Are the Healthiest Drinks & Snacks at Starbucks, According to Nutritionists

    Categories
    Food

    70 Low-Carb Dinners, from Juicy Meatballs to Lightning-Fast Stir Fries

    If you’ve just started a low-carb diet, more power to you. After all, it might help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol and blood pressure and reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes. But plain chicken breasts and steamed broccoli will only get you so far. When you tire of the usual, add any of these 70 low-carb dinners to your repertoire. With filling meals like coconut curry meatballs, honey mustard salmon and chicken-Brussels sprouts stir fry on the list, you’ll avoid a dinner rut while sticking to your meal plan.

    But first, why does your body need carbs in the first place? According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, carbs give your body glucose, which is converted into energy. Carbs can be split into three categories: sugar, starch and fiber. The type of carbohydrates you eat is more significant for your health than the amount of them; for instance, whole grains like quinoa and barley are better for you than refined, processed and sugary foods, like white bread, soda and cookies.

    Read on for 70 low-carb dinners that are sure to keep you on track and energized.

    Related: 55 Low-Carb Lunch Ideas You’ll Actually Be Excited to Eat

    1. Chicken and Snap Pea Stir Fry (11g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-snap-pea-stir-fry-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-snap-pea-stir-fry-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    If you can carve out 20 minutes to slice and dice some veggies, you’ll have a healthy, satisfying dinner on the table faster than you can order takeout. Feel free to add any less-than-perfect produce lurking in your fridge to the mix.

    2. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Stuffed Peppers (17g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-yogurt-chicken-salad-stuffed-peppers
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/greek-yogurt-chicken-salad-stuffed-peppers

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 6

    This isn’t your mother’s chicken salad (no offense, Mom). Try swapping the mayo for Greek yogurt and sandwich bread for crispy bell peppers. Bonus: They make great meal-prep lunches.

    3. 20-Minute Shrimp Scampi Zoodles (16g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-scampi-zoodles
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-scampi-zoodles

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    And you thought sticking to a healthy meal plan was going to be time-consuming. Want to make this dish even easier? Pick up some store-bought zoodles at the store instead of spiralizing them at home.

    4. Family Style Chicken Caesar Salad (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/family-style-chicken-caesar-salad
    The Minimalist Kitchen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/family-style-chicken-caesar-salad

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly, special occasion-worthy
    • Serves: 4

    Skip the croutons tonight and you’re in for a dish that clocks in at just 8 grams of carbs per serving. With garlic, olives and Worcestershire in the dressing, I promise you won’t miss a thing.

    5. Meal-Prep Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles (28g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/meal-prep-turkey-meatballs-zucchini-noodles
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/meal-prep-turkey-meatballs-zucchini-noodles

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: make ahead, high protein
    • Serves: 4

    OK, 28 grams of carbs per serving might seem like a lot (especially compared to others on this list), but that’s for the whole meal. Besides, think about how many carbs a bowl of angel hair would rack up.

    6. Chicken Meatballs with Coconut-Herb Sauce (17g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/whole30-chicken-meatballs-cauliflower-rice-coconut-herb-sauce
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/whole30-chicken-meatballs-cauliflower-rice-coconut-herb-sauce

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: Whole30, low sugar, high protein
    • Serves: 4

    Everyone loves spaghetti and meatballs, but this low-carb swap might be even better. The meatballs are juicy, tender and flavorful, but won’t put you in a food coma before you have a chance to catch up on your Netflix queue.

    7. Bruschetta Chicken (6g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bruschetta-chicken
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bruschetta-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, high protein
    • Serves: 6

    Why bother with soggy breading when you can get the chicken crispy all by itself? The secret is making sure your skillet is hot enough to get everything well browned before the meat hits the pan.

    8. Zoodle Stir Fry (18g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zoodle-stir-fry-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zoodle-stir-fry-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    Why do I love stir fries? Their versatility and lightning-fast cook time, for starters. Plus, this take is packed with so many crisp-tender veggies that you won’t miss the rice.

    9. Sheet Pan Lemon Butter Veggies and Sausage (18g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sheet-pan-lemon-garlic-butter-sausage
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sheet-pan-lemon-garlic-butter-sausage

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, sheet pan recipe,
    • Serves: 6

    A hands-off, low-carb dish that cooks on a single baking sheet? It’s *not* too good to be true. If there are any leftovers, serve them for tomorrow’s low-carb lunch.

    10. Baked Sesame-Ginger Salmon in Parchment (21g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sesame-ginger-salmon-in-parchment
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sesame-ginger-salmon-in-parchment

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    My motto, forever and always? No cleanup, no problem. This 30-minute dish cooks up in parchment parcels, so you won’t even need to scrub a sheet pan.

    11. Kung Pao Chicken (17g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kung-pao-chicken
    Stir-Fry
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/kung-pao-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, low sugar, low carb, high protein
    • Serves: 2

    This takeout favorite uses a single skillet and only requires ten active minutes of your time—stir fries for president! Feel free to substitute tofu, pork or beef for chicken.

    12. Keto Pasta with Lemon-Kale Chicken (9g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-pasta-lemon-kale-chicken
    Dana Carpender/Keto for One
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-pasta-lemon-kale-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 1

    Wait, pasta is on your low-carb diet? Yep, and you can thank a type of Asian noodle called shirataki. They’re made from yams, high in fiber and low in calories. Win-win-win.

    13. Mini Eggplant Pizzas (13g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/eggplant-pizza-recipe
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/eggplant-pizza-recipe

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, kid-friendly
    • Serves: 6

    You’ve heard of cauliflower pizza crust…but what about eggplant pizza crust? Simply slice, top, bake and eat, people. Your kids will love decorating their own.

    14. Quiche with Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Crust (13g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/quiche-gluten-free-sweet-potato-crust
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/quiche-gluten-free-sweet-potato-crust

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, special occasion–worthy, low carb
    • Serves: 6 to 8

    Ditch the traditional dough crust and you’re in for a low-carb slice of breakfast-for-dinner heaven. This version is filled with kale, but if you’re in the mood for a fridge clean-out, any green will work.

    15. Spicy Stir Fried Chicken and Shredded Brussels Bowls (19g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-stir-fried-chicken-brussels-sprouts-bowls
    Skinnytaste One and Done
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-stir-fried-chicken-brussels-sprouts-bowls

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 2

    Brussels sprouts in a stir fry? Considering the way they get all caramelized and crispy around the edges, I wholeheartedly endorse this decision. And in case you’re wondering how to shred them, you just need a sharp chef’s knife or mandoline.

    16. Cauliflower Fried Rice (23g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-fried-rice
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cauliflower-fried-rice

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: vegetarian,
    • Serves: 4

    Oh, cauliflower. What would everyone do without you? A runny egg will never do you wrong either, especially atop this savory, low-carb spin on a takeout staple.

    17. Spicy Lemon-Ginger Chicken Soup (15g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-lemon-ginger-chicken-soup
    Photo: Nico Schinco/Styling: Aran Goyoaga
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-lemon-ginger-chicken-soup

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: make ahead, crowd-pleaser, low sugar
    • Serves: 8

    One slurp and you’ll never look at canned chicken noodle soup the same way again. Even better, you can customize your bowl with different greens. Try kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.

    18. Everything Chicken Wings (1g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/everything-chicken-wings
    Mellissa Sevigny/Squeaky Clean Keto
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/everything-chicken-wings

    • Time Commitment: 55 minutes
    • Why I Love It: keto, high protein, crowd-pleaser, no sugar
    • Serves: 6

    Looking for a finger food recipe to impress? These buttery chicken wings have you covered. Save time by using store-bought everything bagel seasoning instead of blending your own.

    19. Warm Ginger-Scallion Pork & Kale Salad (19g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/warm-ginger-scallion-pork-kale-salad
    Kelsey Preciado/Unbelievabowl Paleo
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/warm-ginger-scallion-pork-kale-salad

    • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    If you find kale tough to eat raw, sautéing it in honey-ginger dressing will soften it right up, making it easier on your pearly whites and your digestive system. Problem solved.

    20. Shrimp with Cauliflower “Grits” and Arugula (13g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-and-cauliflower-grits
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/shrimp-and-cauliflower-grits

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    Yup, you’ll definitely be whipping up those goat cheese-laced grits for breakfast, too. Use store-bought riced cauliflower to cut back on prep time.

    21. 15-Minute Skillet Pepper Steak (12g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/fifteen-minute-skillet-pepper-steak
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/fifteen-minute-skillet-pepper-steak

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    Give me a skillet and I’ll give you a reason to be excited for tonight’s low-carb dinner. This high-protein meal is the easiest way to prepare steak at home. Even newbies can tackle it flawlessly, promise.

    22. Gochujang Chicken Stir Fry (22g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gochujang-chicken-stir-fry
    Stir-Fry
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gochujang-chicken-stir-fry

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, low sugar, beginner-friendly
    • Serves: 2

    Gochujang, a sticky, spicy-sweet Korean chili paste, is packed with flavor. It’s the key to making this low-effort, quick chicken dish. (These days, you can find it at any grocery store.)

    23. Honey-Mustard Sheet Pan Salmon (23g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-sheet-pan-salmon
    Aubrie Pick/Eat What You Love
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-sheet-pan-salmon

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, high protein
    • Serves: 5

    This simple sheet pan recipe will convert you into a fish person (if you aren’t one already, that is). You can do all your prep work while the oven preheats. Serve it with cauliflower rice if you usually your salmon with a grain.

    24. 20-Minute Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/20-minute-paleo-egg-roll-bowls
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/20-minute-paleo-egg-roll-bowls

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: gluten free, paleo, low sugar,
    • Serves: 4

    All of the eating and none of the assembly? Yes, please. It’s true that everything tastes better in a bowl. Believe it or not, you won’t miss the crunchy egg roll wrapper.

    25. Zucchini Noodle Pad See Ew (22g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zucchini-noodle-pad-see-ew
    Liz Moody/Healthier Together
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/zucchini-noodle-pad-see-ew

    • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
    • Why I Love It: gluten free, high protein, dairy free
    • Serves: 2

    This healthy spin on a Thai takeout fave tosses wide zucchini noodles (instead of traditional rice noodles) in a gingery, garlicky sauce you’ll swoon for. Eggs, flank steak and cashews make the dish extra filling.

    26. Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken (6g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-keto-indian-butter-chicken
    Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-keto-indian-butter-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    This Indian-inspired delight is packed with protein and flavor, thanks to a blend of warm spices in the coconut cream sauce. Even better, the Instant Pot makes it ready 20 minutes flat.

    27. Salmon with Pesto and Blistered Tomatoes (11g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-pesto-blistered-tomatoes
    Elizabeth van Lierde/Everyday Entertaining
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-pesto-blistered-tomatoes

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, special occasion–worthy,
    • Serves: 4

    You’re only six ingredients and 35 minutes away from this stunning entrée, which calls for easy store-bought pesto. Plate it over greens or cauliflower rice to keep the carbs to a minimum.

    28. Tuna Salad with Yogurt, Capers and Za’atar (2g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tuna-salad-yogurt-capers-zaatar
    Romas Foord/Sea Salt and Honey
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tuna-salad-yogurt-capers-zaatar

    • Time Commitment: 5 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 2

    Creamy Greek yogurt, briny capers and a few pantry staples (like cider vinegar and olive oil) can transform canned tuna into something spectacular enough to serve for dinner. Scoop it up with veggies or spread it on low-carb rolls.

    29. Gena Hamshaw’s Caesar Smashed White Beans (22g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gena-hamshaw-caesar-smashed-white-beans
    Ashley McLaughlin/The Vegan Week
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/gena-hamshaw-caesar-smashed-white-beans

    • Time Commitment: 5 minutes
    • Why I Love It: no cook,
    • Serves: 6

    Whatever you do, don’t sacrifice flavor in the name of a diet. This plant-based recipe is almost like if Caesar salad and hummus had a very delicious baby. Serve it with lettuce cups to eliminate more carbs.

    30. Ina Garten’s Creamy Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Thyme (10g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ina-garten-creamy-chicken-thighs-with-lemon-and-thyme
    Quentin Bacon/Go-To Dinners
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ina-garten-creamy-chicken-thighs-with-lemon-and-thyme

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: special occasion–worthy, high protein, one pan
    • Serves: 4

    Ina Garten isn’t known for serving up diet food, but I love that this decadent skillet just so happens to be low-carb friendly. It’s also packed with protein and fancy enough to serve at a dinner party.

    31. Crispy Chickpeas and Scallops with Garlic-Harissa Oil (27g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-chickpeas-scallops-garlic-harissa-oil
    Caitlin Bensel/The Mediterranean Dish
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/crispy-chickpeas-scallops-garlic-harissa-oil

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, special occasion–worthy, one pan,
    • Serves: 2 to 3

    With crispy chickpeas to soak up all the spicy juices, you won’t even miss that crusty bread for dipping. Serve the scallops with dressed greens or soup if you’re craving a side.

    32. Lemongrass-Ginger Coconut Grilled Steak (3g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-lemongrass-ginger-coconut-grilled-steak
    Chelsea Kyle/For the Table
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/anna-stockwell-lemongrass-ginger-coconut-grilled-steak

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, beginner-friendly, crowd-pleaser
    • Serves: 6 to 8

    What’s the secret ingredient to making the tastiest grilled steak ever, you ask? It’s fish sauce. Serve this stunner with a big green salad to make it a complete meal.

    33. Honey-Mustard Grilled Chicken with Foil Packet Green Beans (13g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans
    Katherine Gillen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-grilled-chicken-foil-packet-green-beans

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, high protein, kid-friendly
    • Serves: 4

    This low-carb dinner maximizes the flavor and minimizes the mess, thanks to an ingenious way to cook your veggies without a grill basket: the foil packet. Good looking out, aluminum.

    34. Spicy, Crunchy Tuna Salad Lettuce Cups (6g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-crunchy-tuna-salad-lettuce-cups
    Katherine Gillen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/spicy-crunchy-tuna-salad-lettuce-cups

    • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: no cook, make ahead,
    • Serves: 2

    This is not your deli’s tuna salad—OK, it kinda is, but with a spicy twist from jarred chile crisp. Substitute low-carb wraps, crackers or rolls for lettuce cups if you’re craving bread.

    35. Leftovers Frittata (13g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/leftovers-frittata
    Katherine Gillen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/leftovers-frittata

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, beginner-friendly, low sugar,
    • Serves: 4

    The only thing sadder than tossing past-their-prime leftovers in the trash is reheating them in the microwave and forcing yourself to eat them plain. Enter this fridge clean-out frittata that’s designed to dinnertime and reduce waste.

    36. Mustardy Pork Tenderloin with Grapes and Red Onions (23g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mustardy-pork-tenderloin-with-grapes-and-red-onions
    Nicole Franzen/To the Last Bite
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mustardy-pork-tenderloin-with-grapes-and-red-onions

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, special occasion–worthy, low carb
    • Serves: 2 to 4

    Pork tenderloin has somehow become synonymous with dry, boring dinners, but it doesn’t have to be that way. As the grapes roast, they turn jammy and saucy alongside the onions and mustard, creating a pan sauce that’s practically irresistible.

    37. 15-Minute Herb-Crumbed Fish (3g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/15-minute-herb-crumbed-fish
    Kate Sears/The Modern Table
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/15-minute-herb-crumbed-fish

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 6

    Grab any types of herbs in your fridge (even if they’re wilted), add breadcrumbs or crackers (or potato chips!) and blitz them in the food processor for a delicious and golden herb-crumb fish topping. Voilà, dinner is handled.

    38. Hot Honey Chicken Thighs (13g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/hot-honey-chicken-thighs
    Katherine Gillen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/hot-honey-chicken-thighs

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, high protein,
    • Serves: 4

    It’s giving “fried chicken” but without all the messy oil and carb-y breading. The secret to making crispy chicken thighs is to start them in a cold pan to slowly render the fat without burning the skin.

    49. Summer Vegetable Steak Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing (25g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/summer-vegetable-steak-salad-with-cilantro-lime-dressing
    Eva Kolenko/The Modern Proper
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/summer-vegetable-steak-salad-with-cilantro-lime-dressing

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    This salad has a trick up its sleeve: It relies on the broiler instead of the grill, so you don’t have to fuss with gas, charcoal or the weather forecast to make dinner. Thank me later.

    40. Bacon Jalapeño Smashburgers (25g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bacon-jalapeno-smashburgers
    Mark Weinberg/I Dream of Dinner
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bacon-jalapeno-smashburgers

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    There’s no need for ketchup, mustard or even buns when there’s bacon involved. The seven-ingredient handhelds call for ground chicken, but just about any protein is fair game on a low-carb diet. Just go easy on the French fries.

    41. Garlic-Confit Chicken with Lemon and Thyme (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/garlic-confit-chicken-with-lemon-and-thyme
    Kate Sears/The Modern Table
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/garlic-confit-chicken-with-lemon-and-thyme

    • Time Commitment: 2 hours and 5 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, special occasion–worthy, high protein
    • Serves: 4 to 6

    Say “confit” and everyone immediately thinks of food that’s delicious yet too fussy to make at home. But this dish defies all assumptions: Most of the cooking is hands off, and the garlic confit can even be prepared ahead of time.

    42. Salmon al Pastor (8g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-al-pastor
    Kristen Kilpatrick/The Comfortable Kitchen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/salmon-al-pastor

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, low sugar, beginner-friendly
    • Serves: 4

    It’s time to rethink the ho-hum-yet-healthy salmon dishes you’ve been serving on repeat. This version borrows the flavor of al pastor with warm spices and a sweet-tart pineapple topping. Might I suggest serving it with guacamole and low-carb chips?

    43. Easy, Lazy Chicken Soup with Beans and Greens (22g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-soup-with-beans-and-greens
    Katherine Gillen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-soup-with-beans-and-greens

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, gluten free, dairy free
    • Serves: 6

    The beans are canned, the greens are swappable and the entire dish is easier to make (and tastier) than grabbing a can opener and warming up the store-bought stuff. I won’t tell if you use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own, either.

    44. Winter Red Cabbage and Apple Soup (21g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/winter-red-cabbage-and-apple-soup
    Issy Croker/One: Pot, Pan, Planet
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/winter-red-cabbage-and-apple-soup

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, vegetarian, vegan
    • Serves: 6

    Cabbage doesn’t get nearly as much love as other vegetables, but this gorgeous, jewel-toned soup can help change that. It’s creamy, bright and fresh all at once. I’ll be putting extra crème fraîche on mine, FYI.

    45. Alison Roman’s Swordfish with Crushed Olives and Oregano (5g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/swordfish-crushed-olives-oregano
    Michael Graydon and Nikole Herriott/Nothing Fancy
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/swordfish-crushed-olives-oregano

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: dairy free,
    • Serves: 6

    Swordfish is ideal for anyone dipping their toes in the seafood waters, because it’s as mild as chicken. This version requires fewer than ten ingredients and comes together in just 30 minutes of your precious time—but tastes way more complicated.

    46. Seared Scallops with Green Peas, Mint and Shallots (23g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/seared-scallops-green-peas-mint-shallots
    Amanda Frederickson/Simple Beautiful Food
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/seared-scallops-green-peas-mint-shallots

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: gluten free, dairy free,
    • Serves: 4

    My number one tip for success? Make sure your scallops are super dry before plopping them in a preheated skillet. Otherwise, they’ll never get a gorgeous, golden brown sear (and that’s kind of the best part).

    47. Instant Pot Carrot Ginger Soup (17g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-carrot-ginger-soup
    Katherine Gillen
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-carrot-ginger-soup

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: Instant Pot recipe, dairy free, gluten free,
    • Serves: 6 to 8

    If you want to make this soup vegan, use vegetable stock or water instead of chicken stock. The coconut milk added at the end? It’s optional, but adds a creaminess that I can’t imagine you’d want to pass up.

    48. Roasted Tomato Soup (6g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/the-best-damn-tomato-soup
    Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/the-best-damn-tomato-soup

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser,
    • Serves: 10

    Stop settling for the bland stuff in a can. Roasting your tomatoes unlocks tons of flavor with very little effort, and it’s the key to making this easy soup (even with out-of-season produce). Grilled cheese on low-carb bread, anyone?

    49. Low-Carb Zucchini Enchiladas (26g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/low-carb-zucchini-enchiladas
    Photo: Mark Weinberg/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/low-carb-zucchini-enchiladas

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, gluten free, high protein
    • Serves: 8

    Say “see ya” to tortillas and swap in thin-sliced zucchini for a low-carb dinner that’s about to become a staple at your place. The fillings are flexible, so use whatever is in your fridge. Just don’t skip the chicken (or cheese).

    50. Keto Instant Pot Greek Cauliflower Rice (6g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-greek-cauliflower-rice
    Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-greek-cauliflower-rice

    • Time Commitment: 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: low sugar, keto,
    • Serves: 8

    Plain cauliflower rice is just fine, but this Greek version is even better. For one, it’s made in the Instant Pot. And instead of being bland, it’s studded with flavorful bites of olives, feta, herbs and fresh veggies.

    51. Vegan Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom Marinara Sauce (25g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-spaghetti-squash-mushroom-marinara-sauce/
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/vegan-spaghetti-squash-mushroom-marinara-sauce/

    • Time Commitment: 55 minutes
    • Why I Love It: vegan, gluten free,
    • Serves: 4

    Just because spaghetti squash is a low-carb replacement for pasta doesn’t mean it should pale in comparison. But that also doesn’t mean you should go to the ends of the earth to make a meal. This dinner relies on store-bought staples (like jarred sauce) and flavor bombs (hey, nutritional yeast) to pack a punch.

    52. Carrot, Fennel and Miso Soup (24g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/carrot-fennel-miso-soup
    Aran Goyoaga
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/carrot-fennel-miso-soup

    • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
    • Why I Love It: vegan, gluten free
    • Serves: 4 to 6

    The caramelized vegetables and miso in this soup give it depth of flavor, while the crunchy topping (pumpkin seed-pine nut crunch, to be exact) adds welcome texture. It’s dinnertime magic, I tell you.

    53. Bacon-Wrapped Black Cod with Spinach and Capers (7g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bacon-wrapped-black-cod
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/bacon-wrapped-black-cod

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, special occasion–worthy, beginner-friendly
    • Serves: 4

    How to make a meal seem instantly more appealing? Wrap it in bacon, of course. It infuses the fish with tons of savory, smoky, salty flavor that’s sure to satisfy.

    54. Honey Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken with Brussels Sprouts (23g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-sheet-pan-chicken-brussels-sprouts
    Colin Price/Two Peas & Their Pod
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/honey-mustard-sheet-pan-chicken-brussels-sprouts

    • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
    • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, beginner-friendly,
    • Serves: 4

    If you’re searching for a delicious chicken recipe that doesn’t involve roasting for an hour or dirtying up a bunch of pans, this one has your name on it. (Personally, I was sold at “honey mustard,” but the minimal cleanup doesn’t hurt, either.)

    55. Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle (11g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sheet-pan-chicken-shawarma-lemon-tahini-drizzle
    Kristen Kilpatrick/The Defined Dish
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/sheet-pan-chicken-shawarma-lemon-tahini-drizzle

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: sheet pan recipe, crowd-pleaser, high protein
    • Serves: 6

    Throw it all on a sheet pan, toss it in the oven and let it cook to perfection while you tend to other important business…whether that’s answering emails, wrangling kids or scrolling TikTok. The creamy tahini drizzle will greet you when you return to the kitchen.

    56. Tomato-Poached Cod with Fresh Herbs (19g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tomato-poached-cod-fresh-herbs
    Patricia Niven/Keeping It Simple
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/tomato-poached-cod-fresh-herbs

    • Time Commitment: 25 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    When you want to look fancy and feel good with minimal effort (aka my goal in life), slip this low-carb dinner into your rotation. The recipe calls for canned crushed tomatoes, so you can whip it up year-round.

    57. Baked Coconut-Curry Meatballs (7g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/baked-coconut-curry-meatballs
    Tieghan Gerard/Half Baked Harvest Super Simple
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/baked-coconut-curry-meatballs

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, high protein, low carb
    • Serves: 6

    Aside from eliminating the need to babysit a skillet on the stovetop, baking the meatballs yields impossibly tender results every time. Don’t even get me started on the creamy, dreamy coconut milk sauce. Serve it with cauliflower rice (or a modest amount of brown rice).

    58. Perfect Meatballs with Cherry Tomato Sauce (15g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/perfect-meatballs-with-cherry-tomato-sauce
    What’s Gaby Cooking
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/perfect-meatballs-with-cherry-tomato-sauce

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour, 10 minutes
    • Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly, kid-friendly
    • Serves: 8 to 10

    I’m hesitant to call anything perfect, but if you served these tender meatballs with a side Caesar salad, you’d come close to just that. Even picky kids will have no complaints about this dinnertime staple.

    59. Cast Iron Pork Chops with Cacao-Spiced Rub (7g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cast-iron-pork-chops-cacao-spiced-rub
    Eric Wolfinger/The Mexican Keto Cookbook
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/cast-iron-pork-chops-cacao-spiced-rub

    • Time Commitment: 1 hour
    • Why I Love It: keto, high protein, one pan
    • Serves: 4

    Cooking a big cut of meat at home can be daunting, but it’s actually pretty simple with a few tips. One, season the meat at least 30 minutes ahead of time, and two, preheat your skillet until it’s sizzling. It makes the difference between a tough chop and one that melts in your mouth.

    60. Instant Pot Coconut Salmon with Fresh Herbs and Lime (5g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-coconut-salmon-fresh-herbs-lime
    Christopher Testani/Instant Family Meals
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/instant-pot-coconut-salmon-fresh-herbs-lime

    • Time Commitment: 20 minutes
    • Why I Love It: Instant Pot recipe,
    • Serves: 4

    Steam-poaching the fish in coconut milk keeps it moist and infuses it with an instant jolt of flavor. To make this a one-pot deal, you can toss in sliced shiitake mushrooms or snap peas with the salmon. How easy is that?

    61. One-Pan Lemon Sage Chicken and Cauliflower (12g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-lemon-sage-chicken-cauliflower
    Lauren Volo/Cauliflower Power
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-lemon-sage-chicken-cauliflower

    • Time Commitment: 45 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, gluten free, high protein, low sugar
    • Serves: 4

    A one-pan dinner that’s made with chicken and cauliflower? And it’s low-carb? Be still my heart. Serve it with low-carb pasta, zoodles or fresh greens.

    62. Baked Chicken and Ricotta Meatballs (20g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/baked-chicken-ricotta-meatballs
    Patricia Niven/Keeping It Simple
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/baked-chicken-ricotta-meatballs

    • Time Commitment: 35 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, sheet pan recipe, low sugar
    • Serves: 4

    If you end up with leftover meatballs (all bets are off), warm them in broth and toss in some greens at the end for a quick next-day soup. Throw the spare broccolini in too, while you’re at it.

    63. One-Pan Roasted Chicken with Carrots (24g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-roasted-chicken-with-carrots
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-roasted-chicken-with-carrots

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    Few things taste better than enjoying your dinner without a pile of dirty pots and pans in the sink. Squish all the roasted garlic out onto your chicken and spread it across every inch for a boost of savory flavor.

    64. Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas (9g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Slow-Cooker-Pork-Carnitas-Tacos
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/Slow-Cooker-Pork-Carnitas-Tacos

    • Time Commitment: 7 hours, 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, make ahead,
    • Serves: 8

    Cooking a pork shoulder in a Crockpot means that you’ll have the juiciest, tenderest filling for tacos without doing a ton of work. Use low-carb tortillas to stick to your healthy meal plan, or use the meat to top a salad.

    65. Pistachio-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple and Escarole Salad (17g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pistachio-pork-tenderloin-apple-escarole-salad
    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pistachio-pork-tenderloin-apple-escarole-salad

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: special occasion–worthy, high protein, sheet pan recipe
    • Serves: 4

    Surprise: This elegant main course cooks from start to finish on a single sheet pan. The pistachio crust adds crunchy texture without the need for breadcrumbs.

    66. Chicken Thighs with Pancetta and Green Olives (4g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-thighs-pancetta-green-olives
    Christopher Hirsheimer/Canal House Cook Something
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/chicken-thighs-pancetta-green-olives

    • Time Commitment: 50 minutes
    • Why I Love It: one pan, low sugar, high protein
    • Serves: 4

    Don’t be surprised at the directions: The thighs cook for almost 30 minutes undisturbed, which is essential to getting earth-shatteringly crisp skin. The pancetta and punchy olives are just a delicious bonus.

    67. Keto Instant Pot Sausage-Kale Soup (20g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-sausage-kale-soup
    Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/keto-instant-pot-sausage-kale-soup

    • Time Commitment: 15 minutes
    • Why I Love It:
    • Serves: 4

    Use any type of sausage you prefer (kielbasa, chorizo and Italian sausage are all great choices), and you can easily change the flavor profile of this nourishing soup. Feel free to swap Swiss chard, collards or spinach in for kale, too.

    68. Black Pepper Chicken (17g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/black-pepper-chicken
    Kristen Kilpatrick/The Defined Dish
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/black-pepper-chicken

    • Time Commitment: 30 minutes
    • Why I Love It: high protein, low sugar, dairy free
    • Serves: 4

    Not only is this quick dinner a chance for a crisper drawer cleanout, but it’s also gluten-, grain- and dairy-free, paleo and Whole30-approved. (Oh, and even your kids will ask for a second helping.)

    69. Mark Bittman’s Cauliflower “Polenta” with Mushrooms (21g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mark-bittman-cauliflower-polenta-with-mushrooms
    Jim Henkens/How to Cook Everything Fast, Revised Edition
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/mark-bittman-cauliflower-polenta-with-mushrooms

    • Time Commitment: 40 minutes
    • Why I Love It: vegetarian,
    • Serves: 4

    This alternative to polenta—based on super-soft cauliflower—increases your vegetable intake without any effort at dinntertime. Try swapping the mushrooms for caramelized zucchini in the summer.

    70. Broccoli Margherita Pizza (11g Carbs)

    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/broccoli-margherita-pizza
    Con Poulos/Week Light
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/broccoli-margherita-pizza

    • Time Commitment: 55 minutes
    • Why I Love It: low sugar,
    • Serves: 4

    As much as you’d love to order in a massive, cheesy pizza pie every night, it’s just not in the cards. But with a few heads of broccoli, you can get one step closer to your dreams. Be generous with the fresh mozz, will ya?

    How Many Grams of Carbs Should You Eat in a Day?

    Carbs are your main source of fuel, so they should make up 45 to 65 percent of your total daily calories, or 225 to 325 grams per day on a 2,000-calorie diet, according to the Mayo Clinic. In the case of following a low-carb diet, keeping your intake down to 20 to 57 grams per day is a pretty common restriction. To stay energized for extended periods of time, you should prioritize complex carbs that are rich in fiber over refined carbs (like processed snacks). Just be sure to be mindful of portion size if you’re on a low-carb diet and always check with a medical professional before starting any new diet plan.

    Related: 86 Keto Dinner Recipe Ideas to Try Tonight

    Categories
    Food

    53 Keto Chicken Recipes You’ve Never Tried

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    You decided to give the ketogenic diet—the buzzy, high-fat, moderate-protein, low-carb meal plan—a whirl, but you slid into a dinner rut fast. (Douse some chicken and veggies in olive oil, roast and repeat—yawn.) Don’t get discouraged just yet: There are plenty of fun ways to incorporate the lean protein into your diet, from chicken sausage to ground chicken to bone-in, skin-on thighs. Presenting 53 tasty keto chicken recipes that are anything but boring.

    BRITTANY CONERLY/EVERYDAY GRAND
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/french-onion-sheet-pan-chicken

    French Onion Sheet Pan Chicken

    Your favorite winter soup meets your go-to protein for a low-lift meal that will easily feed a crowd of six in one fell swoop. Best of all, it’ll leave you with minimal dishes to clean afterwards (thanks, sheet pan).

    QUENTIN BACON/GO-TO DINNERS
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/ina-garten-creamy-chicken-thighs-with-lemon-and-thyme

    Ina Garten’s Creamy Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Thyme

    Leave it to the Barefoot Contessa to whip up a chicken dinner this elegant and easy. It would taste divine over rice or couscous, but you can serve it with greens or cauliflower rice to keep it keto.

    YUKI SUGIURA/LOVE JAPAN
    https://www.purewow.com/recipes/miso-honey-broiled-chicken

    Miso-Honey Broiled Chicken

    This drool-worthy main is only six ingredients away. Take your pick of chicken breasts or thighs, and go light on the honey to keep the sugar and carbs down (or um, don’t).

    The Recipe Critic

    Creamy Tuscan Chicken

    Velvety sauce, sun-dried tomatoes and it’s ready in 25 minutes flat—yes, please. Serve it over zoodles, with Caesar salad or atop low-carb pasta.

    Ambitious Kitchen

    Goat Cheese and Spinach-Stuffed Chicken Breast with Caramelized Onions and Mushrooms

    When your friends say they don’t understand your keto diet, present them with this supremely cheesy masterpiece. The chicken is stuffed hasselback-style for the ideal meat-to-filling ratio.

    Wholesome Yum

    Buffalo Chicken Soup

    It’s ideal for cold months, but we’d eat it all year-round. Instead of making your usual dip on game day, present them with this soup that will warm them right up (but you should still serve it with plenty of tortilla chips for dunking).

    Hey Keto Mama

    Keto Chicken Enchilada Bowl

    All the fixins’ you crave (onions! chiles! avocado! sour cream!), minus the carby tortillas. Cauliflower rice will give you a keto-friendly Chipotle feel.

    Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Keto Sheet Pan Chicken and Rainbow Veggies

    Because the kids want dinner now. Plate theirs with grains, bread or pasta, and stick to meat and vegetables yourself to keep the meal low-carb.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Chicken Meatballs and Cauliflower Rice

    Psst: Ground chicken is your new best friend. It cooks at lightning speed like other ground meats, but is leaner than typical beef.

    Hey Keto Mama

    Keto White Chicken Chili

    No frigid night is a match for this liquid comfort. Cream cheese, heavy whipping cream and butter make it next-level indulgent.

    Ambitious Kitchen

    Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde

    Kick your feet up: The Crockpot has dinner covered. Serve this keto-friendly dish with a side of cauliflower rice, and crown it with all the avocado and cilantro you desire.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers

    Almost as good as a plane ticket to Santorini. Go ahead and slather the skewers in as much tzatziki as you’d like—the yogurt-based spread is on your diet.

    Life Made Sweeter

    Low-Carb Chicken Fajita Salad

    If you must have salad, do it like this. Believe it or not, this sizzling stunner only takes 25 minutes to come together.

    Foodie Crush

    30-Minute Caprese Chicken

    Close your eyes, take a bite and boom: You’re in Italy. Aren’t you glad mozzarella cheese is keto-friendly?

    Food Faith Fitness

    Keto Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

    Packed with protein and made with just seven ingredients, this dish is an easy win. Pro tip: It’s even better paired with cauliflower mashed potatoes.

    Wholesome Yum

    Whole Crockpot Chicken

    Cool if we lick the plate? We’d bookmark this dinner party-worthy delight for Thanksgiving now if we were you…

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    One-Pan Roasted Chicken with Carrots

    Go for bone-in, skin-on thighs for the juiciest results. (They’re basically impossible to overcook, unlike drier chicken breasts.)

    Wholesome Yum

    Chicken Stir Fy

    Say it with us: Not tonight, takeout. You’ll have this 15-minute meal on the table faster than you can say “for delivery, please.”

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Thai Lettuce Wraps

    Using sturdy, leafy greens in place of carb-based wraps and buns is a keto hack we swear by. These are spicy, bright and deliciously low-carb.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Foolproof Cheater’s Confit

    Chicken confit is a thing, guys. (Although chicken can easily be swapped for duck in this Insta-worthy entree.) Go wild on the garlic and fresh herbs.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Lemon and Herb Roast Chicken

    Hi, old friend, how nice that you’re on our diet. Six ingredients (including fresh thyme, rosemary and lemon) make this low-lift beauty possible.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    White Wine Coq au Vin

    It’s ready in under an hour—Julia Child would be so proud of our foolproof shortcuts. Did we mention this skillet gem serves six?

    Wholesome Yum

    Keto Chicken Tenders

    Here’s your reminder that chicken tenders are completely acceptable for adults, especially when they’re low-carb (thanks to pork rind breading) and ready in 25 minutes flat.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Balsamic Cranberry Roast Chicken

    Bring on the low-carb comfort food. The rosemary and cranberry garnishes make it a no-brainer for Christmastime (or any old Tuesday, really).

    Erin McDowell

    Avocado Chicken Salad

    It’s anything but a Waldorf. The recipe calls for using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own, so it’s as low-lift as humanly possible.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Crispy Grilled Chicken

    This grilled chicken offers fried chicken vibes with none of the extra carbs. What’s our secret you ask? We’ll never tell. (OK, it’s mayonnaise).

    Half Baked Harvest

    Chicken, Avocado and Goat Cheese Salad

    Worthy of a goddess (that’s you, friend). As much as we love fresh produce and tangy goat cheese, the simple honey-balsamic vinaigrette really seals the deal.

    Wholesome Yum

    Keto Chicken Parmesan

    This dish is so filling, you’ll barely have room for dessert (well, almost). Even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to complain about this comforting classic.

    Damn Delicious

    One-Pan Pizza Chicken

    Speaking of picky eater-proof dinners, your kids will almost surely ask for seconds of this pepperoni-topped masterpiece.

    Food Faith Fitness

    Everything Bagel Chicken

    This hearty main is all about the seasoning, which is store-bought for maximum ease. The rest is pantry staples and a generous dose of cream cheese.

    Food Faith Fitness

    Coconut Chicken Curry

    Admit it: Your mouth just started watering. Basmati and naan are our go-to pairings, but cauliflower rice will do if you’re on keto.

    The Recipe Critic

    Shrimp and Chicken Sausage Vegetable Skillet

    It’s a great option for meal prepping, but TBH, you can make this dish at the drop of a hat when necessary. (Seriously—it’ll be on the table in 20.)

    Wholesome Yum

    Healthy Chicken Alfredo

    You won’t miss angel hair once you try it with spaghetti squash. Zoodles are a fine low-carb substitute, too.

    Food Faith Fitness

    Baked Chicken Nuggets

    These are always a crowd-pleaser (and kid-approved). Serve them with a keto-friendly dip, like ranch dressing, mustard or hot sauce.

    Two Sleevers

    Basil Pesto Chicken

    This 25-minute dish will become a permanent part of your weekly rotation at first bite. Make the pesto from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious.

    Two Sleevers

    Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

    Take your taste buds on a wild ride with this crowd-pleaser that’s equal parts spicy, cheesy and savory.

    Dana Carpender/Keto for One

    Keto Pasta with Chicken

    If you’re not into chicken thighs, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead. (Thighs do tend to be juicier and tastier though, especially if you cook them with the skin on.)

    Leslie Grow/Keto in an Instant

    Indian Butter Chicken

    Anyone would love to gobble this Instant Pot gem up—even if they’re not on the keto diet. The pressure cooker pulls it off in 20 minutes.

    Wholesome Yum

    Chicken Cauliflower Casserole

    Prep this on a Sunday and enjoy it all through the week. The 35-minute recipe is gluten-free, low-carb and only requires 10 minutes of prep.

    Wholesome Yum

    Butter Chicken

    Yes, it’s just as delicious (and buttery) as it sounds. Consider the 60-minute marinating time a built-in cocktail hour for the chef.

    Mellissa Sevigny/Squeaky Clean Keto

    Everything Chicken Wings

    Make a batch of these butter-doused wings that’ll give Buffalo sauce a run for its money. Pass the blue cheese, please.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Bruschetta Chicken

    Meet bruschetta chicken: a speedy, nutritious meal that tastes super indulgent. (We credit the grated Parm.)

    Katie Wayne

    Spicy Hummus Chicken Salad

    Picnic fare at its finest. Make this shareable staple ahead if you have the time—or just mix it right before the cookout. Regardless, it’ll only take you ten minutes.

    The Minimalist Kitchen

    Family-Style Chicken Caesar Salad

    Ditch the croutons and this crowd-pleaser will contain only eight grams of carbs per serving. Pile on the chicken for a boost of protein.

    Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

    Chicken and Snap Pea Stir Fry

    We love how riffable this recipe is; toss in any vegetables you have on hand. Bonus? It’s ready to eat in 20 minutes.

    The Modern Proper

    Low-Carb Chicken Divan

    We love a one-and-done dinner. All the veggies are baked in—no sides needed.

    Christopher Hirsheimer/Canal House Cook Something

    Chicken Thighs with Pancetta and Green Olives

    The trick to crispy chicken thighs is to cook them skin side-down low and slow, starting in a cold pan. This slowly renders out all the fat.

    Kristen Kilpatrick/The Defined Dish

    Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle

    A delicious dinner that cooks on a single baking sheet? Where do we sign up? A flurry of spices—like paprika, cumin and cinnamon—pack every bite with bold, warm flavor.

    Katherine Gillen

    Hot Honey Chicken Thighs

    This swicy dish is only six ingredients away (and you likely have most of them on hand). Did we mention it cooks to completion in a single skillet?

    Katherine Gillen

    Honey-Mustard Grilled Chicken with Foil Packet Green Beans

    Dinnertime at the campfire just got a lot tastier—and a lot less messy. Foil keeps the cleanup to a minimum, but it’s also a great way to cook outdoors without a grill basket.

    Kate Sears/The Modern Table

    Garlic-Confit Chicken with Lemon and Thyme

    Slow cooked garlic cloves in oil (20 of ’em, to be exact) > everything. Don’t @ us. This elegant entree is only seven additional ingredients away.

    Erin McDowell

    Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

    It’s time to bust out the carrots, celery and ranch (or blue cheese dressings). Oh, and all the napkins in your kitchen.

    Donna Griffith/The Primal Gourmet Cookbook

    Piri Piri Chicken

    Just like you’d get at a Portuguese churrasqueria. Spatchcock the bird (meaning remove its backbone) to reduce the cooking time and crisp the skin.

    Categories
    Recipes

    Wasabi Deviled Eggs

    Wasabi Deviled Eggs
    Your guests will love this punchy riff on the old-school appetizer.
    Natalie Keng/Egg Rolls & Sweet Tea
    12 servings
    20 min
    15 min
    35 min
    Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn/Egg Rolls & Sweet Tea

    Deviled eggs may seem like an antiquated appetizer. But serve them at your next picnic and they’ll vanish before your eyes. Even though the O.G. is a reliable hit, it’s also a breeze to update the retro-yet-timeless snack. Case in point: the wasabi deviled eggs from Natalie Keng’s new cookbook, Egg Rolls & Sweet Tea.

    The recipe serves as a delicious fusion of Keng’s Asian-American roots and Georgia upbringing. “When I was growing up, we had a lot of visitors come to our house—everyone from extended family to neighborhood kids—and we often had deviled eggs at these gatherings,” Keng writes. “[Deviled eggs] are a real Southern treat not usually found on Asian menus, and my family took a liking to them right away.”

    FYI, real wasabi is basically impossible to find in the U.S.; horseradish is typically used in its place. Nevertheless, this version of the spicy, sinus-clearing condiment will still work its magic. “Wasabi provides a touch of peppery pungency that adds balance to the mayonnaise in these deviled eggs,” explains Keng.

    Excerpted from Egg Rolls & Sweet Tea © 2023 by Natalie Keng. Photography © 2023 by Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn. Reproduced by permission of Gibbs Smith. All rights reserved.

    Related: Avocado Deviled Eggs

    70 calories

    6g fat

    0g carbs

    3g protein

    0g sugars

    6 large eggs

    4 tablespoons mayonnaise

    ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard

    ½ teaspoon wasabi powder or 1 teaspoon wasabi paste

    1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

    Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

    Smoked paprika, for serving

    1. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Turn off the heat and gently place the eggs in the water using a ladle. Turn the heat back on to high and cook the eggs for 12 to 14 minutes.

    2. Meanwhile, fill a medium bowl halfway with ice and water. Once the eggs are cooked, transfer them to the ice bath. Let the eggs cool completely, then peel them and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks carefully with a spoon and put them in another medium bowl. Place the egg white halves on a plate.

    3. To the bowl of egg yolks, add the mayonnaise, mustard, wasabi, vinegar and salt and pepper to taste. With a fork, mash the yolks and seasonings together and mix until you have a smooth paste.

    4. Add a small spoonful of the egg yolk mixture back into each egg white half. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika.

    Note: For an easy, homemade filling dispenser, scoop the egg yolk mixture into a quart-size plastic storage bag or a sandwich bag. Gently press and gather the mixture toward one corner of the bag. Snip off the tip of the plastic bag. Squeeze the yolk mixture into the egg white halves. Enlarge the hole if needed.

    Categories
    Recipes

    Spicy, Crunchy Sesame Cucumber Salad

    Spicy, Crunchy Sesame Cucumber Salad
    It’s refreshing and crisp with just the right amount of heat.
    Katherine Gillen
    4 servings
    40 min
    0 min
    40 min
    Katherine Gillen

    Inspired by the flavors of pai huang gua, a Chinese cucumber salad that’s seasoned with rice vinegar, chili oil and soy sauce, this spicy, crunchy sesame cucumber salad recipe is everything we want in a side dish: It’s refreshing, crisp, juicy and savory with just the right amount of heat to bring us back for another bite. Sure, it’s also further proof that you don’t need lettuce to make a good salad…but that’s beside the point.

    Related: Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta and Honey-Lime Dressing

    36 calories

    1g fat

    7g carbs

    1g protein

    3g sugars

    2 English cucumbers

    Kosher salt

    ¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar

    ½ teaspoon sesame oil

    1 hot pepper (such as Fresno), thinly sliced

    1 garlic clove, grated Sesame seeds and flaky salt, to garnish

    1. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, thinly slice the cucumbers into ribbons. Toss the cucumber ribbons with a generous pinch of salt and transfer to a colander or strainer over the sink or a bowl to drain some of the moisture, 25 to 30 minutes.

    2. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, Fresno pepper and garlic.

    3. Place the drained cucumbers in a serving bowl and toss with the dressing. Garnish with sesame seeds and flaky salt before serving.