Committing to a low-carb lifestyle doesn't mean you have to give up convenience, variety or comfort foods. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy most of your old favorites -- no culinary degree required. Most recipes can be assembled in no more than three easy steps.
Omelets and Frittatas
All you need are eggs and your favorite fillings for an easy, perfect meal any time of day. A Western omelet made with ham, onions, bell peppers and cheddar cheese is an old standby. Give it south-of-the-border flare by trading the ham for skirt steak and cheddar for asadero cheese and topping with salsa.
Sandwiches and Wraps
Yes, there are low-carb versions of the classic burger bun! Poach or saute two very large portobello mushroom caps, blot off excess liquid or oil, then add your burger and condiments. According to Diet-i.com, this bread substitution is a no-guilt addition to your low-carb food list. Mushrooms only have a glycemic index value of 10. For even more portable options, try wraps made with butter lettuce or nori sheets instead of tortillas.
"Pasta"
Think your enjoyment of pasta is just a distant memory? Cheer up. Use a spiruli, mandoline or vegetable peeler to create thin or wide vegetable "ribbons" out of summer squash or zucchini. Or cut a spaghetti squash in half and remove the pulp and seeds. Microwave cut-side down in a shallow dish of water for 10 minutes. Use a fork to separate the flesh into "spaghetti." Top with your favorite pasta sauce and cheese.
Stir-fry
Some assembly required -- but that's it. Open a bag of your favorite frozen vegetable medley. Saute with your choice of meat plus soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic and sesame oil. Omit the rice to stay low-carb conscious.
No-Cook Options
Nuts are a quick and tasty snack. Add some variety by dusting with a little cinnamon, cayenne and sea salt and roasting in a 300-degree oven for five minutes. You can find other nut recipes at Cooks.com. Or cut up carb-conscious raw vegetables, such as broccoli, sugar snap peas, cauliflower and tomatoes, then drizzle with blue cheese or other low-carb dressing.
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