Liven up your midday meal with these low-carb lunch ideas with 15 grams of carbohydrates or less. Packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, these salads, soups, flatbreads and skillet meals are well-balanced, filling and satisfying.
1/48
Cauliflower Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheesy recipe is way tastier than any other cauliflower soup I've tried! We like it with hot pepper sauce for a little extra kick. —Debbie Ohlhausen, Chilliwack, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 160 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
2/48
Buffalo Pulled Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
This slow-cooker dump meal is one of my go-to’s. The lighter chicken is a nice alternative to pulled pork. —Kim Ciepluch, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup chicken mixture: 147 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1288mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein.
3/48
Air-Fryer Pork Chops
From the Recipe Creator:
These air-fryer pork chops get their rich flavor from Creole seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Bonus: They’re low in carbs, too! —Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop: 310 calories, 16g fat (5g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 308mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 2 fat.
4/48
Cheesy Onion Chicken Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
My zesty chicken with peppers and onions is so versatile, it works when you serve it over rice, potatoes, noodles, even a hoagie bun. —Kim Johnson, Sibley, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 293 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 226mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein.
5/48
BLT Chicken Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Featuring all the fun fixings for a BLT chicken sandwich, this salad is so lovable. I can prep the ingredients ahead of time and just throw it together at the last minute. Barbecue sauce in the dressing gives it unexpected flavor. Even picky eaters love my chicken salads. —Cindy Moore, Mooresville, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 281 calories, 19g fat (4g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 324mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein.
6/48
Tex-Mex Chicken Strips
From the Recipe Creator:
I was looking for a way to amp up the flavor of regular chicken strips so I crushed up some leftover corn chips to create a crispy, flavorful coating. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken: 258 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 85mg cholesterol, 351mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 28g protein.
7/48
Southwest Turkey Lettuce Wraps
From the Recipe Creator:
If you’re tired of the same old taco routine, give these a try. I tweaked a friend’s recipe to suit our tastes and my family’s loved it since. It’s so tasty and low maintenance. —Ally Billhorn, Wilton, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
3 filled lettuce wraps (calculated without optional toppings): 251 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 806mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 43g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
8/48
Air-Fryer Fajita-Stuffed Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
I had all the ingredients for fajitas, but instead of heating up my big oven I decided to try out the air fryer. Since mine is a small one, I wanted to get as much filling as I could in each stuffed chicken breast. This worked nicely by cutting slits in the breasts and then filling them. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 347 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 126mg cholesterol, 628mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 42g protein.
9/48
Slow-Cooker Chicken Taco Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
We use this super-duper chicken across several meals, including it in tacos, sandwiches, omelets and enchiladas. My little guys love helping to measure the seasonings. —Karie Houghton, Lynnwood, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups lettuce with 3 ounces cooked chicken: 143 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 516mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
10/48
Asparagus-Mushroom Frittata
From the Recipe Creator:
My Sicilian Aunt Paulina inspired this fluffy frittata. I remember visiting her garden, picking fresh veggies and watching her cook. Her wild asparagus frittata was my favorite. —Cindy Esposito, Bloomfield, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge: 130 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 192mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 medium-fat meat, 1/2 fat.
11/48
Chicken Caprese
From the Recipe Creator:
I love a Caprese salad of tomatoes, basil and cheese, so why not try a chicken caprese? You can grill this dish, but my family agrees it’s juicier straight from the oven. —Dana Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 525 calories, 34 g fat (11g saturated fat), 139 mg cholesterol, 761 mg sodium, 5 g carbohydrate (4 g sugars, 1 g fiber), 45 g protein.
12/48
Dad’s Greek Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
The heart of a Greek salad recipe is in the olives, feta, cucumbers and tomatoes. Dress it with olive oil and vinegar, then add more olives and cheese. —Arge Salvatori, Little Ferry, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 148 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 389mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 fat.
13/48
Fontina Asparagus Tart
From the Recipe Creator:
This lemony tart is loaded with fontina cheese and fresh asparagus. It’s a snap to make but looks really impressive. Be advised…your guests will be vying for the last tasty slice. —Heidi Meek, Grand Rapids, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 142 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 202mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
14/48
Almond Chicken Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother used to prepare this chicken salad with grapes and almonds for an evening meal during the hot summer months. It’s my favorite of my mother’s chicken salad recipes. —Kathy Kittell, Lenexa, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 351 calories, 23g fat (5g saturated fat), 152mg cholesterol, 540mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
15/48
Vegetable, Steak and Eggs
From the Recipe Creator:
Low-carb doesn’t have to be skimpy with this lighter take on steak and eggs. I love cooking with squash, but feel free to toss in any vegetable combination you like. —Robert Deskin, Plantation, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 344 calories, 21g fat (10g saturated fat), 259mg cholesterol, 770mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein.
16/48
Almond Vegetable Stir-Fry
From the Recipe Creator:
While broccoli florets and chunks of red pepper give these stir-fry vegetables plenty of color, it’s the fresh gingerroot, garlic, soy sauce and sesame oil that round out the flavor. —Mary Relyea, Canastota, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 143 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 260mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
17/48
Bacon-Wrapped Pesto Pork Tenderloin
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to serve this family-favorite tenderloin—maybe because of the compliments that come with it! When the weather warms up, we grill it instead. —Megan Riofski, Frankfort, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 402 calories, 25g fat (9g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 864mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein.
18/48
South-of-the-Border Caprese Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Plump heirloom tomatoes highlight this garden-fresh showpiece, drizzled with a sweet-tart dressing and sprinkled with cheese. It’s perfect for an outdoor party and so easy to make! —Kathleen Merkley, Layton, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 168 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 286mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
19/48
Pork Chops with Parmesan Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Moist and tender chops make a speedy and comforting weekday meal. They’re dressed with a smooth, creamy sauce seasoned with Parmesan, onion and a hint of nutmeg, parsley and thyme. Here’s a new family favorite! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 1/4 cup sauce: 244 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 475mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
20/48
Cream of Asparagus Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
We have a large asparagus patch and are able to freeze a lot for the year. My recipe highlights the flavor of the vegetable and is very easy to make. —Sherri Melotik, Oak Creek, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 154 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 585mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat-free milk.
21/48
Ham Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I first made this ham salad recipe for a shower, and everyone raved about it. Now when I go to a potluck, I take it—along with copies of the recipe. —Patricia Reed, Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup ham salad: 229 calories, 18g fat (3g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 1023mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.
22/48
Shrimp Gazpacho
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a refreshing take on the classic chilled tomato soup. Our twist features shrimp, lime and plenty of avocado. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 112 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 399mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
23/48
Sausage Cobb Salad Lettuce Wraps
From the Recipe Creator:
I substituted sausage for the bacon to make a lettuce roll-up your family and friends will adore. It’s flavorful, crunchy and pretty on the plate. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 433 calories, 38g fat (10g saturated fat), 174mg cholesterol, 887mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 15g protein.
24/48
Chicken Thighs with Shallots & Spinach
From the Recipe Creator:
This moist and tender chicken comes complete with its own creamy spinach side dish! It makes a pretty presentation and comes together in no time flat for a nutritious meal. —Genna Johannes, Wrightstown, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 1/4 cup spinach mixture: 223 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 360mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
25/48
Crunchy Chili Lime Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
Easy, quick and family-friendly, this chili lime shrimp recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. The secret is the flavor-packed sauce and crunchy tortilla chips. — Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 230 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 315mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1/2 starch.
26/48
Portobello Mushrooms Florentine
From the Recipe Creator:
A fun and surprisingly hearty dish packed with flavor and richness. —Sara Morris, Laguna Beach, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed mushroom: 170 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 204mg cholesterol, 428mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 0.500 fat.
27/48
Southwest Shredded Pork Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This knockout shredded pork makes a healthy, delicious and hearty salad with black beans, corn, cotija cheese and plenty of fresh greens. —Mary Shivers, Ada, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 233 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 321mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
28/48
Grilled Chicken Breasts
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves this grilled chicken, and I love having a healthy and tasty recipe that keeps my kitchen cool. —Linda Coss, Lake Forest, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 207 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 105mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
29/48
Grilled Vegetable Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
From the Recipe Creator:
My Italian-style grilled veggies have a wonderful sweet and sour dressing. Best of all, I pick the fresh veggies and herbs from my garden. —Laura Mast, Defiance, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 219 calories, 19g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
30/48
Shrimp Avocado Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This salad can be served as a cool and satisfying dinner or lunch. The delicious taste and smooth texture of avocados mixed with the crisp shrimp salad is heavenly. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup avocado mixture: 252 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 523mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 2 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
31/48
Thai Shrimp Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This tasty soup comes together in minutes, and it’s a crowd-pleaser. The ingredients are available in my little Maine grocery store, too. —Jessie Grearson-Sapat, Falmouth, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 163 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 505mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
32/48
Zucchini Frittata
From the Recipe Creator:
When we travel by car, I make the frittata the night before, stuff it into pita bread in the morning and microwave for a minute or two. I wrap them in a towel so down the road we can enjoy a still-warm breakfast! —Carol Blumenberg, Lehigh Acres, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 261 calories, 18g fat (8g saturated fat), 304mg cholesterol, 459mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 18g protein.
33/48
Everything Bagel Chicken Strips
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the flavor profile of everything bagels, so I re-created it with traditional breaded chicken fingers. Serve them with your favorite chicken finger dip. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 246 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 85mg cholesterol, 593mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 30g protein.
34/48
Slow-Cooked Chicken Enchilada Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This soup delivers a big bowl of fresh comfort—just ask my husband. Toppings like avocado, sour cream and tortilla strips are a must. —Heather Sewell, Harrisonville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups (calculated without optional toppings): 125 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 1102mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 14g protein.
35/48
Chicken Nuggets
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to make these golden chicken nuggets because they’re so quick and easy. My whole family loves them. You can also use the seasoning to cook chicken breast halves. Stack them on rustic bread with mayo, lettuce and tomato for delicious sandwiches. —Annette Ellyson, Carolina, West Virginia. Learn how to make keto chicken nuggets.
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken: 214 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1/2 starch.
36/48
Wendy’s Apple Pomegranate Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandparents grew pomegranates, pecans and walnuts and would send us some each year. Some of my best memories are the days I used to spend with my grandmother learning how to cook with her. Whenever I make this, it’s like having lunch with my grandmother again. —Wendy Ball, Battle Creek, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 165 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 163mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
37/48
Hot Spinach Apple Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
With a light sweet-tangy dressing, the spinach doesn’t wilt and the apples retain their crunch. We serve this salad with homemade bread. —Denise Albers, Freeburg, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 117 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 135mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
38/48
Quick Cream of Mushroom Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter-in-law, a gourmet cook, served this cream of mushroom soup recipe as the first course for a holiday dinner. She received the recipe from her mom and graciously shared it with me. Now I’m happy to share it with my own friends and family. —Anne Kulick, Phillipsburg, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 136 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 842mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
39/48
California Burger Wraps
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the way these fresh flavors blend together. It’s a snap to throw this together using leftover burgers for a quick, healthy lunch. The burgers can also be served on buns. —Rachelle McCalla, Batesville, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
2 wraps: 252 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 518mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat.
40/48
Shakshuka
From the Recipe Creator:
Shakshuka is a dish of poached eggs with tomatoes, onion and cumin. I learned about it while traveling through Southeast Asia, and it's been my favorite way to eat eggs since. —Ezra Weeks, Calgary, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 159 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 186mg cholesterol, 381mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 medium-fat meat, 1 vegetable.
41/48
Spinach Blueberry Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Blueberries are a fun surprise in this salad. I received the recipe from a co-worker’s wife, and it’s become one of my favorites. —Heidi Gilleland, Lees Summit, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 254 calories, 24g fat (5g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 407mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
42/48
Cajun Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
These zippy shrimp bring a lot of pizazz to the table. Use as much or as little cayenne pepper as you'd like, depending on your family's tastes. We love ours served alongside rice pilaf. —Donna Thomason, El Paso, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked shrimp: 131 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 430mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
43/48
Cauliflower Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Cauliflower in potato salad? You bet, along with carrots, olives and other yummy surprises. —Mike Schulz, Tawas City, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 61 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 375mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
44/48
Tomato Walnut Tilapia
From the Recipe Creator:
Tomato, bread crumbs and crunchy walnuts dress up pan tilapia fillets in this favorite recipe. I serve it with cooked julienne carrots and green beans. —Phyl Broich-Wessling, Garner, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 202 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 251mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1/2 starch.
45/48
Rainbow Veggie Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Every salad should be colorful and crunchy like this one with its bright tomatoes, carrots, peppers and sassy spring mix. Toss with your best dressing. —Liz Bellville, Jacksonville, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 64 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 232mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
46/48
Asparagus & Cheese Frittata
From the Recipe Creator:
This rich and creamy frittata begins in the skillet and ends in the oven. We like this melty, cheesy dish with salad on the side. —Gilda Lester, Millsboro, Delaware
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge: 325 calories, 22g fat (9g saturated fat), 263mg cholesterol, 779mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
47/48
Tasty Turkey and Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh mushrooms star in this tender turkey entree that comes together in 15 minutes. Served with a side of brown rice, it makes a light but satisfying meal. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 209 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
48/48
Blackened Pork Caesar Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
When I cook, the goal is to have enough leftovers for lunch the next day. This Caesar with pork has fantastic flavor even when the meat is chilled. —Penny Hedges, Dewdney, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
2-1/2 cups: 458 calories, 31g fat (5g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 464mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein.
Low-Carb Lunch Ideas FAQ
What is a good lunch with low carbs?
One of my family’s favorite low-carb lunches is lettuce-wrap burgers, which brings all the cheeseburger goodness without needing a bun. We wrap juicy, seasoned ground beef in crisp lettuce leaves and pile on the classics: melty cheddar, pickles, cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of burger sauce. It’s a fresh, fork-friendly way to enjoy nostalgic summer flavors. Quick to prep, easy to pack and endlessly customizable—it’s a feel-good lunch my family keeps returning to!
What lunch foods are filling but have no carbs?
When it comes to zero-carb lunches, focus on meals made with protein and healthy fats. It’s challenging to find truly zero-carb foods, as many foods—even healthy ones—contain at least trace amounts of carbohydrates. So I usually turn to protein powerhouses that are practically carb-free (or extremely low in carbs, typically under 1 gram per serving), like egg salad, deviled eggs and salads topped with canned sardines, tuna or salmon. Low-carb grilling recipes like chicken breasts or thighs are a good option, too.
How can I make low-carb lunch ideas ahead of time?
To prep low-carb lunches ahead of time, choose ingredients that store well and maintain a fresh flavor and texture in the fridge. With a little weekend planning, you can whip up low-carb, high-protein lunch ideas that are fresh, flavorful and ready to grab and go. Try combining grilled chicken breasts, crunchy veggies and a zingy sauce for an easy lunch—it tastes especially tasty when it’s packed up in a cute little container! Mason jar salads, lettuce wraps, egg muffins and hearty protein-packed bowls are also perfect for mixing, matching and loving all week long. Just prep, pack and enjoy.
