When you are on a low-carb diet, many portable meals are off-limits. Sandwiches, yogurt parfaits and pasta salads contain significant amounts of grains, making them high in carbohydrates. A small cooler, insulated lunch bag and glass containers with tight-fitting lids are accessories that make transporting low-carb meals easier.
Lettuce Wraps
Large leaves of romaine or Boston lettuce can serve as wrappers for slices of deli meat including ham and turkey. You could also add cream or goat cheese, avocado, salsa and sprouts to fill out the wrap. Secure the wraps with a toothpick and slice into bite-sized pieces to enjoy on the go. Transport them in a glass container or wrap them firmly in plastic wrap. Read the ingredient list when selecting deli meat for you low-carb diet. Some contain added sugars and fillers that raise the carb count.
Tuna Salad
A tuna salad is a popular lunch option that is appropriate for a low-carb diet. Mix together water-packed tuna, chopped celery, lemon juice, onion and low-fat mayonnaise for a classic version. You could also mix the tuna with 1 tbsp. of non-fat yogurt, lemon juice and capers for a tangier option. Mix in tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cayenne, parsley and toasted pine nuts for a Middle Eastern-inspired version. Put the salad in a glass container and bring along a zip-top bag with cut-up, low-carb vegetables such as celery sticks, red pepper strips and cucumber coins.
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs contain only a trace amount of carbohydrates and hard-boiled versions are easy to take with you for a low-carb meal. Pair two with cut up vegetables, such as jicama wedges, leaves of endive and grape tomatoes, and a stick of string cheese. Have a handful of almonds or walnuts on the side to round out your low-carb meal.
Wrap Sandwiches
Low-carb tortillas, with about 10 g of carbohydrates per wrap, help make portable low-carb meals that are easy to create. Fill the tortillas with a combination of low-carb ingredients, roll up and wrap in plastic wrap for a simple on-the-go meal. Try deli turkey, cream cheese and avocado, or Swiss cheese, spinach leaves and ham, or low-fat mayonnaise, bacon and romaine, or, perhaps, grilled chicken, roasted red peppers and Italian dressing.
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