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17 Carb-Smart Dishes That Won’t Leave You Missing Your Old Favorite Foods

These dishes make eating carb-smart a lot easier without feeling like you’re sacrificing anything. With options that feel hearty and satisfying, they provide a fresh way to approach everyday meals. If you’re looking for flavorful alternatives, these recipes bring all the comfort without overthinking it.

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

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

If you’ve been holding onto old carb-loaded favorites, Creamy Mashed Cauliflower might be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed. This dish brings all the creamy texture and comfort without the carb overload. It’s so rich and rewarding that you’ll forget about the heavy version you used to love. Swapping to this feels more like a treat than a compromise.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you’re looking to switch up your dinner routine, look no further than Vintage Chicken Divan. It’s a comforting classic that proves you don’t need a ton of carbs to enjoy a hearty meal. This dish will become a go-to for those busy weeknights when you want something both simple and nourishing. End your day on a high note with this comforting recipe.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Horiatiki Salad

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

For anyone craving something light yet fulfilling, Horiatiki Salad is your answer. This dish brings a refreshing bite without the heavy feeling afterward. Ideal for a quick lunch or a side dish, it’s straightforward and packs a punch of flavor. It’s a reminder of how simple ingredients can create something incredibly satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Giving a classic dish a modern twist, Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu combines convenience with flavor. This recipe ensures a crispy outside with a tender inside, all while keeping things less greasy. Perfect for those who love a good protein-packed meal without spending ages in the kitchen. This dish has a way of making any dinner feel a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans offers a hassle-free side dish that’s bursting with flavor. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you focus on other tasks, making your meal prep a breeze. This dish pairs well with almost any main, adding a touch of comfort to your plate. It’s an ideal pick for anyone craving home-cooked warmth without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re in search of a lunch option that’s both easy to prepare and hearty, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts won’t disappoint. This recipe is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for sandwich fillings or atop a bed of greens. Not only is it convenient, but it also brings a festive twist to your routine meals. Enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing the essence of Mediterranean cooking into your kitchen, Mediterranean Cod is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an expansive array of flavors. This dish is ideal for anyone seeking a meal that’s both light and fulfilling. Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or you’re entertaining guests, it fits seamlessly into any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm and inviting, Chicken Paprikash is a dish that promises comfort in every spoonful. It’s a treasure of flavors, perfect for those cooler evenings when you crave something to warm you up from the inside out. Not only is it hearty, but it also introduces you to the depths of flavor that can be achieved with minimal effort. A true testament to the power of home cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in a bowl.
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are a game-changer for anyone looking to keep meals both healthy and flavor-packed. These meatballs turn out perfectly juicy every time, thanks to the air fryer, making them an excellent addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking to top your favorite pasta substitute or need a fulfilling snack, these meatballs have got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

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

Transform your mealtime with Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon, a side dish that packs a punch. This combination of flavors not only complements a variety of mains but also stands strong on its own. It’s an excellent way to introduce a mix of tangy and savory notes to your palate. Let this dish surprise you with its unique taste profile.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken brings festivity to your table with minimal effort. This dish is all about slow-cooking to perfection, allowing every spice to fully marinate and envelop the chicken in flavor. It’s a perfect centerpiece for a family dinner, ensuring everyone leaves the table full and happy. Let yourself be transported by the vibrant flavors of Mexico.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

A plate of asparagus with mascarpone and lemon.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Not just a side dish; it’s a statement of elegance and simplicity with Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. This recipe transforms a simple vegetable to a creamy treat, making it the perfect complement to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this dish adds a touch of sophistication.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins brings a delicious twist to your typical chicken salad. This dish is a blend of comfort and surprise, offering a new take on a classic recipe. It’s perfect for those days when you want something both familiar and exciting. Every bite offers a burst of flavor, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Mexican Cauliflower Rice

A closeup of Vegan Mexican Rice with tomatoes in the background.
Mexican Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Stand as a testament to the versatility of cauliflower, turning it into something extraordinary with Mexican Cauliflower Rice. This dish is packed with flavor, proving that low-carb options do not have to be boring. It’s an excellent base for a variety of toppings, or it can be enjoyed splendidly on its own. Experience a culinary adventure with this vibrant recipe.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

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

Experience the robust flavors of Smoked Chicken Al Pastor, a dish that seamlessly blends smokiness with a hint of sweetness. Perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, this recipe is both innovative and comforting. It’s an ideal choice for a weekend barbecue or a weeknight dinner with a twist. Let each bite transport you to the heart of culinary creativity.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Sliced Smoked Bacon Wrapped Whole Pork Tenderloin on a white platter.
Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is the ultimate dish for anyone looking to treat themselves to a protein-packed meal. This recipe wraps tenderness and flavor into one, guaranteed to be a hit at any dining table. It’s perfect for an intimate dinner or when you want to impress your guests. Enjoy the richness of flavors enveloped in every slice.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

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

Introduce yourself to the comforting embrace of Mediterranean Chicken Bake, a dish rich with flavors that speak of sunny landscapes and aromatic kitchens. This bake is the perfect answer to a chilly evening when you crave something warm and hearty. It’s an effortless way to bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

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