Slow Down; Slim Down: 19 Lower Carb Meals To Drop Holiday Weight

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Slow Down; Slim Down: 19 Lower Carb Meals To Drop Holiday Weight

Looking to lose those holiday pounds? Check out these 21 low-carb recipes. They’re simple, tasty, and perfect for getting back on track. You’ll find everything from breakfast to dinner, all designed to keep you full and satisfied while cutting down on calories.

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

Garlic Steak & Mushrooms

A white plate with garlic steak bites and mushrooms on it.
Garlic Steak & Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

So you’re looking for a tasty, fulfilling meal but you’re also on a mission to keep your calories in check? Here’s an amazing suggestion for you – Garlic Steak with Mushrooms. It’s full of flavors that you won’t be able to resist. It’s low on calories, but high on satisfaction. And the best part? It’ll make you feel like you’re indulging in a luxury, without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Steak & Mushrooms

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash on a platter with gravy.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’ve been longing for a creamy dish that’s not too heavy on the calories, look no further. Our Chicken Paprikash is exactly what you need. It’s rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. The best part? It packs a burst of flavor without going overboard on calories. Brilliant, right? It’s comfort food that fits right in with your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Mediterranean Cod

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

Feeling the need for some lighter fare after all those holiday treats? Here’s an idea: the Mediterranean Cod. This dish is as refreshing as it gets – lightness, juiciness, and a shot of flavors that feel so summer-y. It’s just what you need to switch things up. And the good news? It’s absolutely gentle on the calorie front as well.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Are you in the mood to try something a bit different, yet conscious of your calorie intake? Meet Chicken Tinga, an irresistible delicacy that is surprisingly low on calories. It’s juicy, spicy, smoky, and all-around delicious. It packs a punch but doesn’t add too much to your daily calorie intake. This one is definitely going to be your new favorite!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

After enjoying all those rich holiday foods, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing salad. The Shirazi Salad is vibrant, refreshing, and tangy, and makes a fantastic low-cal alternative. It’s also a chance to take advantage of all the fresh veggies out there. It’s light, it’s nutritious, and it certainly doesn’t skimp on flavor – just what you need for a post-holiday detox.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Got a hankering for an Asian-style dinner but don’t want to blow your calorie budget? The Chicken Fried Rice could be just what you’re craving. It ticks all the boxes – flavor, texture, satisfaction – without going overboard on the calories. Enjoy the layers of flavors without having to worry about your waistline. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

An image of Tex-Mex Caesar Salad on a square plate.
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Love Tex-Mex but watching your calorie intake? We might have just the thing for you: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad! With bold, zesty flavors and a refreshing crunch, this is a lighter option that keeps your calorie count in check. Who said weight management had to be bland and boring?
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

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.

Do you want something quick, tasty, and calorie-friendly for lunch? Try out the Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. It’s got the savory goodness of chicken and the sweet tang of cranberries, all mixed with crunchy walnuts. It’s a perfect match of textures and flavors and is easy on your daily calorie count. Trust us, you’re going to love this one!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s another great dish suggestion if you’re trying to get back on track after the holidays: Smoked Carver Ham. It’s low-cal, filling, and packed full of delicious smoky flavor. Plus, it’s protein-rich which means it’ll keep you full for longer, helping to maintain your weight loss journey. Perfect, right?
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Have you ever wished you could combine the flavors of the Mediterranean with a low-calorie meal? Well, your wish just came true with our Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. It’s light and refreshing, but still packed full of those Mediterranean flavors you love. Plus, it’s low in calories which is just what we need after a season of indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Over the Top Chili

Over the Top Chili in a black cast iron bowl.
Over the Top Chili. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Does your palate crave spicy and hearty meals, but your calorie count says otherwise? Look no further than the Over the Top Chili. It brings heat, it brings flavor, it brings satisfaction – all without pushing your calorie count. Way to spice up your weight-loss mission!
Get the Recipe: Over the Top Chili

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Braised Beef Short Ribs with gravy and mashed potatoes.
Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

How about slow-cooked, tender beef ribs that are aromatic and satisfying but don’t make your calorie count explode? The Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs might be just what you need. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly kind to your calorie budget. Sounds hard to believe, but it’s true.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Four Mediterranean Tuna Salad stuffed avocados on a white plate.
Mediterranean Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

The Mediterranean Tuna Salad is another fantastic low-calorie lunch option. It’s bursting with fresh ingredients, and bright, tangy flavors, making it a great break from those heavy holiday foods. It’s light, delicious, and it won’t leave you feeling weighed down. What’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Do you need a refreshing, yet satisfying change? The Italian Chicken dish could be just what you’re looking for. Picture moist, tender chicken flavored with a rich blend of Italian spices – absolutely delicious! The best part is it won’t pile on the calories, keeping your weight loss journey on track.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

Mexican Cauliflower Rice

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

Mexican food can be lower in calories too! Take our Mexican Cauliflower Rice for instance. It brings together a wonderful mix of flavors while keeping your calorie intake right where you want it. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal without worrying about weight gain.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup in two white bowls with garnishes nearby.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For all the soup lovers out there looking to shed some pounds, the Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup is for you! It’s flavorful, warm and oh-so satisfying, but miraculously, it’s also light in calories. Seems like the perfect comfort food for a winter slim-down, doesn’t it?
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Al Pastor Carnitas

Al Pastor Carnitas in a white bowl with tongs.
Al Pastor Carnitas. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Craving the comfort of Mexican food but want a lower calorie option? Say hello to the Al Pastor Carnitas. Yes, it’s everything you’re imagining – tender, flavorful, comforting – with the added bonus of being low on calories. Now that’s a feast you can feel good about!
Get the Recipe: Al Pastor Carnitas

Beef Barbacoa

Beef Barbacoa in a blue bowl.
Beef Barbacoa. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you want a savory hit of bold, meaty flavor that isn’t too heavy on calories, try our Beef Barbacoa. It’s a decadent treat that satisfies your cravings without actually being sinful. Excited yet?
Get the Recipe: Beef Barbacoa

German Pork Loin

German Pork Loin on a platter with a gravy boat nearby.
German Pork Loin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Satisfying, fulfilling, hearty, savory – that’s the German Pork Loin for you. Who knew a dish so delectable would also be kind to your post-holiday weight watch! Cook yourself a serving, take a bite – as you bask in the rich flavors, it’s okay to feel a bit smug for finding enjoyment in something that’s also perfectly good for your health.
Get the Recipe: German Pork Loin

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