10 Simple and Delicious Low Carb Heart Healthy Recipes
When it comes to eating healthy, many people believe that eating bland or tasteless food is a necessary sacrifice. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. In fact, there are plenty of savory and delicious low-carb heart-healthy recipes that you can whip up with ease. Here are 10 of the most delectable ones:
1. Spicy Baked Avocado Eggs
This recipe is a great way to start your day with a flavorful breakfast that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. All you need to do is cut an avocado in half and scoop out the pit. Crack an egg into each half, sprinkle some salt and cayenne pepper, and bake in the oven for about 15 minutes. The result is a creamy, spicy, and nutrient-packed breakfast that will keep you full and energized.
2. Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli
This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who want a low-carb and heart-healthy meal that tastes like a restaurant dish. In a large skillet, sauté some garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil. Add in some peeled and deveined shrimp, and cook until pink. Toss in some chopped broccoli and lemon juice, and cook until tender. This recipe gives you a burst of vitamins, protein, and flavor.
3. Cauliflower Fried Rice
This recipe is a great alternative to traditional fried rice that uses rice — hence the name. Instead, it uses grated cauliflower as a low-carb substitute. Simply cook some chopped vegetables (such as onion, carrots, peas, and bell peppers) in a wok or large skillet. Add in the grated cauliflower and some soy sauce, and stir-fry until everything is heated through. Top with some cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for added protein.
4. Fish Tacos
This recipe is a refreshing and healthy twist on the classic Mexican dish that uses tortillas. Instead, it uses lettuce leaves as a wrapper, which cuts down on the carbs and adds some crunch. Simply pan-sear some fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod) with some cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Place the fish and some chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, cilantro, and tomatoes) on a lettuce leaf, and drizzle with lime juice and hot sauce.
5. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Sauce
This recipe is a perfect way to indulge in some Italian-style pasta without the carbs and calories. All you need is a spiralizer to turn some zucchini into long and thin noodles. Toss the noodles in some homemade or store-bought pesto sauce, and sprinkle with some Parmesan cheese. You can also add in some cooked shrimp or chicken for added protein and flavor.
6. Oven-Baked Salmon
This recipe is a no-fuss way to cook salmon that turns out juicy, tender, and flavorful every time. Simply place some salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the fillets with some olive oil, and sprinkle with some salt, pepper, and dried herbs (such as dill, thyme, or parsley). Bake in the oven at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Greek Salad
This recipe is a classic Mediterranean dish that is light, fresh, and packed with nutrients. Simply chop some tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives into bite-size pieces. Add in some crumbled feta cheese and drizzle with some olive oil and red wine vinegar. This salad is low-carb, heart-healthy, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This recipe is a tasty way to add some green veggies to your diet that are rich in fiber and vitamin C. Simply preheat the oven to 400°F and place some halved Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Drizzle with some olive oil and sprinkle with some salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until browned and crispy.
9. Turkey Chili
This recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold winter night. Cook some ground turkey in a large pot with some garlic, onions, and chili powder. Add in some canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and some chicken broth. Simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until everything is cooked through. Top with some shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream for added flavor.
10. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
This recipe is a sweet and indulgent treat that is low-carb and heart-healthy, thanks to the use of dark chocolate and natural peanut butter. Melt some dark chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into a muffin liner. Place a dollop of natural peanut butter on top, and cover with more melted chocolate. Freeze for about 30 minutes or until set. These cups are rich, chocolatey, and satisfying.
