Low-carb meal ideas

Cutting down on carbs helps the body to shed water weight and start to burn fat, boosting metabolism and encouraging muscle growth. Since the body does need an adequate amount of carbs to function and build muscle, one of the most effective ways to trim down is to begin carb cycling (see our article on carb cycling here). We’ve compiled some super-tasty, extra-healthy recipes perfect for low-carb days or anyone cutting down on their carb intake overall.

Steak with carrot fries

If you’re craving steak and chips, this one’s for you. Carrot fries are lower in carbs than white and sweet potato or parsnips – so they’re ideal for a mid-week treat. Add peppercorn, blue cheese or diane sauce for extra indulgence!

Method: Marinate the steak with your favourite herbs and spices. Leave to rest in the fridge to allow the flavours to infuse. Meanwhile slice carrots into fries and toss with cold-pressed rapeseed oil, smoked paprika and a little sea salt and black pepper. Spread evenly on a tray and bake until golden brown. When the carrot fries are almost ready, griddle the steak on a hot plate or grill to your liking and serve.

Total carbs: 20g

Salmon steak with cauliflower rice

Salmon is packed with healthy fats and macronutrients – so it’s a fantastic food regardless of your individual fitness goals. It’s also versatile – here we’ve paired it with cauliflower rice for an ultra-low carb meal that packs a flavourful punch.

Method: Marinate the salmon to taste with herbs, spices or your choice of sauce, then sear on a hotplate or bake in the oven. If you aren’t using ready-prepared cauliflower rice, simply add cauliflower florets to a food processor and blitz until sliced into tiny crumbs. Add seasoning – salt, pepper, fresh herbs – and steam or stir-fry for best results.

Total carbs: 8g

Courgetti with creamy carbonara sauce

Pasta is a firm favourite – but it’s off-limits on low-carb days. Courgetti is a sophisticated swap that offers plenty of added fibre, vitamins and minerals. It can be accompanied by any sauce – but this luxuriously thick creamy carbonara with lean turkey bacon is especially delicious.

Method: Chop one small onion and slice 60g of turkey bacon into small squares. Fry together with one clove of crushed garlic and 2 tablespoons of chicken or vegetable stock. Then add 1 tablespoon of fromage frais, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese to the pan and mix well. Season with salt and pepper and stir through steamed courgetti.

Total carbs: 15g