60 Low-Carb Dinner and Lunch Ideas You'll Love

Eating a low-carb diet as an older adult is important for healthy aging. What you eat can help reduce the risk of certain health conditions, like heart disease or diabetes. However, finding a low-carb recipe when you're short on time can be challenging.

Below, you'll discover 60 low-carb lunch and dinner ideas that are high in protein, have lots of fiber, and you can make quickly throughout the week.

• 1. Chicken cobb salad

A low-carb, protein-packed salad filled with chicken, bacon, and egg, you can take this lunch or dinner on the go by prepping it into a jar with the dressing on the bottom. Then, when it's time to eat, tip the jar over into a bowl and enjoy your chicken cobb salad.

• 2. Shrimp scampi spaghetti squash

Try saying this one five times fast! Looking for a healthier version of your favorite pasta dish? Try spaghetti squash "pasta" with herb garlic shrimp. This low-carb, high-protein dish will leave you feeling full for hours without hitting that after-dinner carb crash.

• 3. Philly cheesesteak lettuce wraps

Whether you're gluten-free or cutting down on carbs, lettuce wraps are a great low-carb, healthy option to swap for bread. Philly cheesesteak lettuce wraps are a delicious, hearty dish you can enjoy any time of day. Plus, you can make them in under 30 minutes.

• 4. Chopped Italian salad

Turn your favorite lunchtime meal into a salad, and enjoy all the flavors of this classic sandwich without the bread. Chopped Italian salad combines all your favorite sub toppings like salami, peperoncini, and mozzarella onto a bed of crunchy romaine. To prep ahead, leave the dressing at the bottom of a jar or on the side, to ensure your salad stays crispy.

• 5. Jalapeno popper chicken

If you're tired of eating plain rotisserie chicken, spice it up with a flavorful jalapeno popper skillet. This keto-friendly dish is sure to give your tastebuds a whirl.

• 6. Cauliflower beef stroganoff

After a cold or dreary day, you might be in the mood for a hearty comforting dish. A beef stroganoff made with riced cauliflower instead of egg noodles is the perfect option that can be quite comforting on a dreary day without any of the stuff you're trying to avoid.

• 7. Lemon garlic steak and broccoli skillet

This one-pan meal of juicy, tender steak tips and buttery lemon broccoli is a perfect quick and easy meal you can enjoy at any time. Let the meat marinate overnight, then prep and cook the steak and broccoli for a weeknight dinner in just 15 minutes.

• 8. Healthy chicken parmesan

This whole-30-friendly recipe is a great "reset" meal to start your week off on the right foot. All you need is chicken breasts, fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and seasonings, and you have a high-protein meal ready to go in no time.

• 9. Baked fish and lemon butter

If you're following the Mediterranean diet, or looking for a protein-rich meal that's high in omega-3s, try baked lemon butter fish. The buttery garlic and lemon sauce will have your tastebuds soaring, you'll want to go back for more. You can use any hearty white fish for this recipe.

• 10. Airfryer chicken and vegetables

Airfryer chicken and vegetables are a great quick, one "pan" meal you can whip together on a busy weeknight. In under 20 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that requires minimal effort.

• 11. Garlic parmesan chicken

A quick one-pan meal you can combine with any carb source or vegetable throughout the week - try garlic parmesan chicken. It takes about 20 minutes to bake and is bursting with flavor. Bring the leftovers to work for a delicious lunch.

• 12. Taco salad

For a quick and easy meal you can throw together in minutes, try a lean taco salad. All you need is lettuce, tomatoes, your choice of meat, cheese, beans, and your favorite toppings. They're great for meal prep, too, since you can build any number of combinations for new and exciting twists throughout the week.

• 13. Sausage and veggies

One quick meal you can make if you're on the go is a one-pan sausage and veggie skillet. Combine sausage with your favorite vegetables on a sheet pan, and toss it in the oven. In minutes, you have a high-protein, veggie-packed meal.

• 14. Coconut curry

A quick, comforting dish you can enjoy any night of the week is coconut curry. This dairy-free dish is veggie-packed and filled with warm spices. For additional protein, add chicken to the curry dish, or tofu for a vegetarian option. If you want to go ultra-low carb, skip the rice and use riced cauliflower instead to soak up all the delicious sauce.

• 15. Avocado chicken salad

Avocado chicken salad is a great, easy go-to lunch idea you can quickly make in the morning or toss it together quickly on those busy work-from-home days. Plus, you can change up your meals throughout the week by serving on a bed of lettuce, on bread, or with crackers and vegetables.

• 16. Tomato, cucumber and avocado salad

For a lighter vegetarian dish than the chicken salad that still hits those creamy notes, try a tangy tomato, cucumber, and avocado salad. This salad is packed with clean ingredients - all it takes is some fresh veggies, olive oil, lemon juice, and seasoning - that's it. It's a clean, nutritious meal with little to no prep. Eat it on its own or grab a little bit as a side for one of the other meals on this list.

• 17. Egg roll in a bowl

Not only is this dish's name fun to say - it's fun to eat, too. Transform one of your favorite takeout items into a healthier, refreshing meal you can eat throughout the week. An egg roll in a bowl still contains the protein-rich, delicious filling, but skips the frying that may make you feel weighed down.

• 18. Greek chicken bowls

Easy, filling, and flavorful, Greek chicken bowls infuse Mediterranean tastes into your lunch or dinner. This dish contains a healthy dose of your daily vegetables and protein, but with a delicious twist that'll be satisfying any time of day.

• 19. Cajun meat and veggies

Can't decide between seafood or red meat for dinner? Luckily, you don't have to - and you don't have to travel to New Orleans to try it. This one pan cajun recipe calls for shrimp and sausage, then toss in some corn and your favorite veggies for a low-carb meal.

• 20. Chicken lime avocado salad

Think chicken salad, with a fresh, zesty twist. A chicken lime avocado salad combines these three ingredients with green onion, mayo, and cilantro for a creamy, delicious, and filling meal. Throw the salad onto a bed of lettuce, with rice, make a sandwich, or eat it on its own - it's that delicious.

• 21. Beef satay

With just a handful of ingredients, you can easily prepare a delicious beef satay to enjoy all week long. This dairy-free recipe requires 30 minutes to marinate before you get to cooking, so prepare accordingly.

• 22. Zucchini noodles

Skip the high-carb pasta and opt for a veggie-forward option like zucchini spirals, which you can playfully call "zoodles." These vegetable noodles are easy to prepare and cook and taste wonderful on their own or in a bowl with some spaghetti. Whether you prefer red sauce and meatballs or a low-carb chicken alfredo, zucchini noodles are a fun and great way to get your vitamins in.

• 23. Cauliflower broccoli ham salad

With just seven ingredients, you can create a keto-friendly, low-carb salad that stores well throughout the week. Simply toss broccoli, cauliflower, black olives, ham, tomatoes, and mozzarella in a garlicky vinaigrette (that only requires five ingredients to make), and enjoy.

• 24. Thai lettuce wraps

Enjoy a burst of Thai flavors in a lettuce wrap that comes together in less than 20 minutes. This sweet and spicy ground chicken dish is the perfect low-carb, high-protein meal you can enjoy for dinner or pack as a lunch.

• 25. Fish taco bowls

This Mediterranean-inspired meal skips the tortilla but doesn't skimp on any of the flavors that make tacos so delicious. Cilantro and lime take the base of this bowl to the next level. For an even lower carb option, substitute rice for cauliflower rice.

• 26. Spinach, mushroom, and tomato quiche

You may associate quiche with breakfast, but this egg-based dish can be enjoyed at any time of day. This healthy vegetarian quiche recipe is simple and doesn't require a lot of prep. You can even make a few and freeze them for a quick, no-fuss lunch or dinner. Skipping the crust keeps this recipe low-carb, too.

• 27. Spaghetti stuffed peppers

Peppers are the star of the show, without completely foregoing some delicious carbs. You'll still get to enjoy a little bit of that pasta goodness with plenty of vitamins and fiber to accompany it. To create this spaghetti stuffed peppers recipe, cook your sauce mixture over the stove, then place it into the bell pepper, add cheese and sausage (optional), and broil for roughly 10 minutes.

• 28. Chicken with sundried tomato sauce

Also called Tuscan chicken, this creamy dish doesn't skimp on any of the flavor while keeping the carb count low. The juicy chicken and creamy tomato sauce will have your taste buds going for a whirl. This classy and delicious dish is just right to serve guests, too, without them feeling like anything is missing.

• 29. Steak caesar salad

This low-carb meal offers plenty of iron and protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Skip the croutons without missing any of the flavor or that classic Caesar experience. Get the recipe here.

• 30. Cauliflower and kale frittata

This healthy frittata recipe combines these two great veggies with goat cheese to create a low-carb, high-protein meal you can enjoy all week. Pair with a light salad for a dinner option, then store in the fridge to enjoy the next morning for breakfast. Not a kale fan? Swap out any leafy green, like spinach, for a similar take.

• 31. Creamy chicken and mushrooms

All you need is one pan and roughly 30 minutes, and you have the perfect quick weekday meal. Parmesan cheese gives this recipe some carb-free oomph that you'll dive back into for bite after bite.

• 32. Homemade chicken tenders

Low carb doesn't mean you can't enjoy the foods you love. Homemade chicken tenders skip heavy breading and recreate the experience with lighter, lower-carb alternatives like panko. For those going full keto, look for alternative crumbs made of coconut for a similar crunch and a punch of flavor. Pair with a light salad or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

• 33. Egg in a hole peppers

Create your own healthier version of egg in a hole by swapping a bell pepper in for bread. Cook the egg inside the bell pepper and top with avocado and seasonings for a vibrant dinner. This is also a great option for a protein-packed work-from-home lunch that will only take a few minutes to prepare.

• 34. Taco stuffed zucchini boats

Sneak in more vegetables without compromising your favorite meals. These zucchini boats contain all your favorite fillings like seasoned meat, cheese, and beans, all in a low-calorie, low carb "shell." Top it however you like, just like your favorite taco.

• 35. Pesto zucchini noodles

Zoodles are a great vehicle for just about any sauce, and the herbiness and nuttiness of pesto is no different. This light summer recipe substitutes zucchini for pasta, allowing you to utilize all the fresh vegetables and herbs in your garden (or the farmers' market, or the grocery store). Once the zucchini noodles soak into the herb pesto sauce, you may not find yourself missing the pasta.

• 36. Chicken fried 'rice'

Cauliflower rice stands in for standard rice in this recipe, lightening up this takeout favorite. This meal is perfect if you're looking to pack in your protein and vegetables - plus it only takes roughly 30 minutes to make. It's great reheated for quick meals throughout the week.

• 37. Spicy sesame salmon

Spice things up with a sesame-crusted salmon that puts flavor forward. Similar to sesame-crusted tuna, this salmon gets covered in a spicy sauce and coated in sesame seeds for a bit of crunch. Turn it into a bowl with a bed of cauliflower rice, or eat it with a side of roasted veggies.

• 38. California grilled chicken

Fresh veggies and a tangy balsamic marinade give ordinary chicken a west coast flair. This California grilled chicken is a low-carb, high-protein meal option that combines this staple protein with fresh mozzarella and farmers-market-worthy tomatoes and avocado for a summery burst of flavor. Take these chicken breasts to the grill for an even more memorable meal.

• 39. Greek salmon

Jazz up your traditional salmon recipe by adding Greek-inspired salad toppings like tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Marinate the salmon itself in a classically Greek lemon-garlic vinaigrette, and you have a 5-star worthy meal in under an hour.

• 40. Caprese stuffed peppers

Get your daily dose of vegetables with an easy weekday caprese stuffed peppers recipe. For this meal, add mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic to the pepper for a satisfying, colorful dinner. It's like pizza without the crust - all those delicious flavors without the carbs.

• 41. Zaatar sheet pan chicken

This one-pan sheet meal is easy, nutritious, and delicious. Toss boneless chicken thighs with root vegetables, honey, and marinade infused with the zaatar herb mix and roast until crispy. Add a creamy tahini sauce for a flavor punch to the perfect weeknight meal.

• 42. Zucchini enchilada bake

In this meal, zucchini replaces corn tortillas for a carb-free, gluten-free option reminiscent of the Mexican favorite. Layer the thin zucchini slices on the bottom of a baking dish, then add chicken or beef (this recipe calls for chicken), cheese, beans, and your favorite enchilada toppings. Place into the oven and you have an easy lunch and dinner that's healthy and equally satisfying.

• 43. Philly cabbage wraps

Philly cheesesteaks without the bread? Consider us intrigued. Thinly sliced beef, onions, peppers, and melted cheese stuffed into a warm cabbage roll is everything you love about the classic sandwich, without all those carbs weighing you down. Get the recipe here.

• 44. Bacon guacamole bombs

If you're looking for a keto recipe that'll satisfy your cravings and your hunger, try bacon guacamole bombs. Roll your homemade guacamole into crunchy cooked bacon bits for a satisfying appetizer to your lunch or dinner. These are also a party hit if you're having friends or family over.

• 45. Steak bites

Looking for a quick, easy, protein-filled lunch? For this recipe, all you need is steak, seasonings, and your air fryer. Simply cut up your steak into bite-sized pieces, coat it with the marinade, and throw it into the air fryer. In 20 minutes, you'll have a hearty flavorful meal that you can combine with sides for countless variations throughout the week.

• 46. Feta and herb-crusted salmon

For this recipe, you don't need to worry about cutting up your salmon - just throw it onto a baking sheet with the toppings, and the oven does the rest. It's not quite a Greek island retreat, but the flavors will take you there mentally. Get the recipe here.

• 47. Pork chops with apples

If you're tired of eating chicken or fish, change up your protein routine with a classic combo: pork chops and apples. These pork chops are simmered in cider with apples and onions, leading them to be tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The extra time in the cider is worth it for the flavor.

• 48. Keto crunch wrap

If Taco Bell trips are no longer on your low-carb list, try making this at-home version with cabbage instead of a tortilla. On a softened cabbage roll, throw in your favorite and naturally low-carb fillings like meat, cheese, and sour cream, and cover with another piece of cabbage. Enjoy at your desk just like takeout.

• 49. Reuben bowls

Reuben bowls combine everything you love from the classic sandwich without the rye bread holding it all together. Cole slaw, corned beef, and thousand island dressing fill the bowl - and your stomach.

• 50. Lobster salad

Lobster rolls and summertime go together like peas and carrots. Don't let the bun stand in between you and the otherwise-low-carb filling. Make the lobster sandwich filling and toss it in a bed of lettuce for a meal that's even fresher than the sandwich. Squeeze a bit of lemon to really bring these flavors to life.

• 51. Egg salad

You can't get more classic lunchtime than a high-protein, filling egg salad. Turn up the vibrant flavors by adding bacon, avocado, or peppers, and enjoy on its own or use celery or carrots to dip.

• 52. Keto fried chicken

Double meat inspires this bread-free fried chicken, swapping the crumbs for pork rinds. It's low-carb, protein-rich, and tastes just as good as the real thing, thanks to the spice mix used in the pork rinds.

• 53. Broccoli cheddar soup

Broccoli cheddar soup is a great cozy day meal that's quick and easy to make - plus, it contains your daily dose of veggies. This cheesy soup is great as a side with your meal or fill a bowl on its own. Pack it in a thermos or container to easily heat up at work.

• 54. Big Mac salad

Missing fast food flavors? Big Mac salad may scratch the itch. Meat, pickles, tomatoes, and lettuce are tossed in a Big Mac-sauce inspired dressing for a bowl full of deliciousness without the bun. Chop up all the ingredients and toss into a bed of lettuce for a low-carb, filling dish.

• 55. Keto cereal

No time to cook? It's breakfast for dinner time. This low-carb "cereal" includes nuts, seeds, coconut, and spices that are then spread onto a baking sheet. Cook, let it cool, and combine with your favorite nut milk for a dairy-free meal option.

• 56. Cauliflower mac and cheese

Craving mac and cheese? Cauliflower is the perfect backdrop for that cheesy goodness. Try this recipe if you're looking to add a healthier twist to your favorite childhood comfort dish.

• 57. Cauliflower pizza crust

What can't cauliflower do? Combine this wonder veggie with eggs, cheese, and seasonings to make a pizza crust. Add your favorite toppings, and enjoy those lovable pizza flavors without the carbs.

• 58. Avocado soup

Yes, avocado can be turned into soup. This gazpacho-inspired dish will keep you feeling cool and refreshed all year round.

• 59. Tuscan butter shrimp

Fresh vegetables and seafood covered in a creamy, vibrant sauce? Count us in! This Tuscan butter shrimp is keto-friendly and protein-rich, and it's ready to serve in under 30 minutes. Serve with zoodles to keep lunch or dinner completely low-carb.

• 60. Burrata salad

Looking for a simple, light lunch? Try a sweet tomato and burrata salad. This three-ingredient recipe only takes minutes to make but tastes oh-so good. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for a next-level experience.

Find low-carb lunch and dinner options at Meal Village

If you're on the go often, it can be challenging to find time to cook yourself a healthy, low-carb meal. Luckily, when you order from Meal Village, you can leave the prepping and cooking to the chefs.

Each week, you can choose from more than 130 recipes, many of which are made to be low-carb, gluten-free, or keto. Then, once you find the meals you'd like to try, all you need to do is call or order online. These delicious and nutritious meals that are delivered right to your door, ready for you to heat and eat. Explore the menu and place your first order today.