We often hear from readers like you who are looking for smart ways to cut back on carbs. Whether you’re controlling your carb intake to lose weight or to manage diabetes or another health issue, consider Good Housekeeping Low Carb! your ally. We’ve rounded up 90 great main dishes that are big on flavor and easy to execute yet contain just 20 grams of carbs (or less) per serving. Sprinkled throughout are quick and tasty ideas for side dishes to round out your meals.
If you’re already following a low-carb diet, you’re probably familiar with basic meal-planning guidelines. But for the newbies (and as a refresher course for everyone), we review the basic nutrients you need for optimum health, offer tried-and-true tips for low-carb success, and invite you to make friends with your slow cooker and nonstick skillet— they’ll make meal prep a breeze!
Easy to prepare and light on your wallet, chicken and turkey are mainstays of a low-carb diet: Try our stir-fries, kabobs, roasts, and even a healthy turkey meatloaf. For you red-meat lovers, we’ve included succulent steaks and chops, hearty stews like Beef Burgundy, and salad plates like Pork Medallions with Asparagus Salad to make sure you get your greens.
Fish and shellfish are low in fat and high in protein, so we’ve included light and luscious recipes for everything from Ginger-Shallot Cod on Watercress to Shrimp and Tomato Summer Salad. Make it a habit to eat seafood at least once a week. And don’t forget the power of eggs and vegetables: These make terrific low-carb breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. You’ll love egg-centric dishes like Shrimp Egg Salad with Spring Peas and meatless mains like Roasted Eggplant Parmesan.
As always, every recipe is triple-tested and paired with complete nutritional information. With Good Housekeeping Low Carb! in your kitchen, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor—or satisfaction!
SUSAN WESTMORELAND
Food Director, Good Housekeeping