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The holiday season is synonymous with rich flavors, festive treats, and hearty meals that bring people together.
However, for those managing diabetes or simply seeking healthier alternatives, the season can also bring some challenges.
The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice flavor, tradition, or enjoyment just because you’re watching your sugar intake.
With the right ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can enjoy a festive holiday feast without the worry of blood sugar spikes.
In this collection of over 25 gourmet diabetic-friendly recipes, we’ve curated a selection of delicious dishes that are low in carbs, free of refined sugars, and packed with rich, festive flavors.
Whether you’re looking for savory side dishes, indulgent desserts, or satisfying main courses, there’s a recipe here to fit every part of your holiday spread.
These recipes are designed to keep your blood sugar stable while still allowing you to indulge in the flavors and traditions that make the holiday season so special.
25+ Flavorful Holiday Diabetic Gourmet Recipes to Enjoy Delicious Meal
This holiday season, there’s no need to feel left out of the celebration or sacrifice your health goals.
With these 25+ diabetic gourmet recipes, you can indulge in all the festive flavors you love, but with the peace of mind that comes from choosing low-carb, sugar-free, and healthy alternatives.
From savory side dishes and delicious mains to decadent desserts, these recipes will not only satisfy your taste buds but also help you maintain balanced blood sugar levels.
Embrace the holidays with flavor, health, and happiness, knowing that you can enjoy every bite without the guilt!
These recipes make it easy to create a holiday feast that everyone can enjoy, whether they’re managing diabetes or simply looking for healthier options.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to savor a holiday season full of flavorful meals that keep you feeling your best.
Sugar-Free Gingerbread Cookies
These diabetic-friendly gingerbread cookies are a perfect treat for the holiday season. With a warm blend of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, they satisfy your sweet cravings without spiking your blood sugar. Made with almond flour and a sugar substitute, these cookies bring the holiday cheer in a healthier way.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup coconut flour
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp monk fruit sweetener or another sugar substitute
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sugar-free molasses
- 1 tbsp water (if needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce, egg, monk fruit sweetener, vanilla extract, and sugar-free molasses.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. If the dough is too thick, add water a little at a time until it’s soft but not sticky.
- Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.
These gingerbread cookies are an excellent choice for those watching their sugar intake this holiday season. With their rich flavor and satisfying crunch, they are sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering. You can even decorate them with sugar-free icing for extra flair. Perfect for those with diabetes or anyone looking for a healthier dessert option, these cookies deliver the full taste of the holidays with none of the guilt.
Low-Carb Cranberry Orange Bread
This low-carb cranberry orange bread is moist and bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of fresh cranberries and the citrusy zing of orange. Perfect for breakfast or a snack during the holidays, it’s a great diabetic-friendly option that won’t spike blood sugar.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, almond milk, melted coconut oil, erythritol, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth.
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until combined.
- Stir in the chopped cranberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool completely in the pan before removing it to slice.
This cranberry orange bread makes a deliciously fragrant and satisfying treat during the holidays. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet orange makes for an irresistible flavor profile, while the almond flour keeps it low-carb and diabetic-friendly. It’s a great way to enjoy a holiday classic without worrying about your blood sugar levels. Serve this bread with a little sugar-free butter for an extra indulgence.
Spiced Roasted Nuts
These spiced roasted nuts are an excellent holiday snack that’s not only low in carbs but also high in protein and healthy fats. Coated in a blend of warm spices and a hint of sweetness, they make a perfect treat for holiday parties or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups mixed unsalted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, cashews)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp monk fruit sweetener or another sugar substitute
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the nuts with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, sweetener, and sea salt. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the spiced nuts onto the baking sheet in an even layer.
- Roast for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from the oven and stir in the vanilla extract and fresh rosemary, if using.
- Allow the nuts to cool completely before serving or storing.
These spiced roasted nuts are a fantastic holiday snack, providing a crunchy, savory, and sweet option that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re a great addition to a party spread, and with the use of a sugar substitute, you can enjoy them without worrying about your blood sugar levels. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and smoked paprika gives these nuts a unique depth of flavor that will surely impress your guests. Keep them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week.
Almond Flour Pumpkin Pie
This low-carb, diabetic-friendly pumpkin pie is a holiday favorite made with almond flour for a gluten-free crust and a spiced pumpkin filling. It’s rich and creamy, with all the comforting flavors of traditional pumpkin pie, but without the sugar spikes. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday dessert table.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg
For the filling:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a pie dish or line it with parchment paper.
- To make the crust, combine the almond flour, melted butter, erythritol, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and egg in a bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
- Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pie dish, creating an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- For the filling, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, heavy cream, erythritol, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the pie cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours before serving.
This almond flour pumpkin pie captures the essence of a traditional holiday dessert with a healthier twist. The almond flour crust adds a nutty flavor and a pleasant texture, while the creamy pumpkin filling is rich in spices and sweetness from the erythritol. This pie will be a crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious way to enjoy pumpkin pie without the sugar rush.
Keto Pecan Pie
A decadent and nutty dessert that’s perfect for the holidays, this keto-friendly pecan pie is sweetened with a sugar substitute and made with almond flour for a gluten-free crust. It’s just as rich and flavorful as the classic pecan pie but without the carbs and sugar.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 2 tbsp erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- 1 egg
- ¼ tsp salt
For the filling:
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
- ⅓ cup erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (optional for a richer filling)
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish or line it with parchment paper.
- For the crust, combine almond flour, melted butter, erythritol, egg, and salt in a bowl. Stir until dough forms.
- Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pie dish, creating an even crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- For the filling, whisk the eggs, almond milk, erythritol, vanilla extract, cocoa powder (if using), and salt in a bowl until smooth.
- Stir in the pecans, then pour the mixture into the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Let the pie cool completely before serving. Refrigerate for a few hours for the best texture.
This keto pecan pie is a great way to enjoy a rich, flavorful dessert without worrying about sugar or carbs. The almond flour crust provides a light, nutty foundation, while the filling is packed with roasted pecans and a sweet, caramelized flavor. This pie is an elegant holiday dessert that everyone will love.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, this garlic mashed cauliflower is the perfect side dish for a holiday meal. With the rich taste of roasted garlic and a creamy texture, it’s a diabetic-friendly option that will complement any holiday main dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Steam or boil the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves in a large pot for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain the cauliflower and garlic, then transfer them to a food processor or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
- Add the heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, then blend until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
This creamy garlic mashed cauliflower is a savory, satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any holiday spread. It’s smooth, flavorful, and low in carbs, making it ideal for anyone following a diabetic-friendly or low-carb diet. The roasted garlic and Parmesan add depth to the dish, ensuring that it’s just as comforting as traditional mashed potatoes.
Chocolate-Covered Almonds
These sugar-free chocolate-covered almonds are a perfect holiday treat. With a rich coating of dark chocolate sweetened with erythritol, they offer the perfect balance of crunchy, nutty, and sweet. These treats make an elegant gift or a snack that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 4 oz sugar-free dark chocolate
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 2 tbsp erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast the almonds in the oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown. Let them cool completely.
- In a small saucepan, melt the sugar-free dark chocolate and coconut oil over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the erythritol until fully incorporated.
- Dip each almond into the melted chocolate, coating it completely, then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Once all the almonds are coated, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for extra flavor.
- Let the chocolate-covered almonds cool at room temperature or refrigerate them for faster setting.
These chocolate-covered almonds are a simple yet indulgent treat for the holidays. They’re low in sugar and rich in antioxidants from the dark chocolate, making them a healthier option for satisfying your sweet tooth. Pack them into small bags or jars as a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family.
Spaghetti Squash with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This low-carb, nutrient-packed spaghetti squash with pesto and cherry tomatoes makes for a fresh and flavorful holiday side dish or light main course. The spaghetti squash provides a pasta-like texture, and the basil pesto adds a rich, savory flavor, making this dish a perfect healthy alternative to traditional pasta.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp pine nuts (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Drizzle the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be scraped with a fork to form spaghetti-like strands.
- While the squash is roasting, make the pesto. In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, pine nuts (if using), Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Process until smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the spaghetti squash is done, remove it from the oven and use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands.
- Toss the squash strands with the pesto and halved cherry tomatoes. Serve immediately.
This spaghetti squash with pesto and cherry tomatoes is a vibrant, healthy dish that’s full of flavor and light on carbs. The pesto brings a delightful depth of taste, while the squash provides a satisfying, low-calorie base. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pasta, making it an excellent addition to your holiday menu.
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
These lemon blueberry cheesecake bars are a low-carb, diabetic-friendly dessert that combines the tartness of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries. The creamy cheesecake filling sits atop a crumbly almond flour crust, creating a perfect bite-sized treat for your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- For the crust, combine almond flour, erythritol, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- While the crust is cooling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and erythritol until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of fresh blueberries on top and gently swirl them into the filling using a knife or skewer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
These lemon blueberry cheesecake bars offer a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. The almond flour crust is both crunchy and low-carb, while the lemon-infused cheesecake filling provides a refreshing, indulgent treat. They’re perfect for a holiday dessert table or as a make-ahead option for a crowd-pleasing, guilt-free dessert.
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This low-carb cauliflower mac and cheese is a comforting holiday dish that combines creamy cheese with tender cauliflower florets, providing the rich flavor of traditional mac and cheese but without the carbs. It’s a great way to enjoy a cheesy, indulgent side dish while keeping your blood sugar in check.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Steam or boil the cauliflower florets in a pot of water for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Drain well.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, and stir to combine.
- Bring the cream mixture to a simmer, then add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.
- In a baking dish, combine the cooked cauliflower with the cheese sauce, stirring until the cauliflower is well coated.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve.
This cauliflower mac and cheese is a rich, creamy dish that rivals the classic comfort food but with fewer carbs. The cauliflower absorbs the cheesy sauce beautifully, providing a satisfying texture that mimics traditional pasta. It’s a perfect low-carb side dish for any holiday gathering, offering the delicious taste of mac and cheese without the sugar spike.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
These roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze are a savory, flavorful holiday side dish that combines the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon and a tangy glaze. It’s a simple, yet elegant addition to your holiday table that’s both low-carb and diabetic-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or sugar substitute (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the balsamic vinegar and honey (if using), stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the glaze has thickened slightly.
- Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, toss them with the crispy bacon and balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.
These roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze are an irresistible holiday side dish. The combination of crispy bacon and the tangy balsamic glaze enhances the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts, making this dish both savory and satisfying. It’s low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a diabetic-friendly diet while still indulging in festive flavors.
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Herb Butter
This grilled salmon with lemon herb butter is a simple yet elegant holiday dish. The rich, flaky salmon pairs perfectly with the zesty lemon herb butter, creating a healthy and flavorful meal that’s low in carbs and packed with omega-3 fatty acids. It’s an excellent choice for a festive main course that feels indulgent but is light on the waistline.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- While the salmon is grilling, make the lemon herb butter by combining softened butter, lemon zest, parsley, dill, lemon juice, and garlic in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the grill and top each fillet with a generous spoonful of the lemon herb butter.
- Serve immediately with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.
This grilled salmon with lemon herb butter is a light yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any holiday meal. The fresh lemon and herbs complement the rich salmon, while the butter adds a touch of luxury without extra carbs or sugar. It’s a perfect diabetic-friendly main dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This dish of zucchini noodles with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes is a low-carb, flavorful holiday side or main course. The spiralized zucchini provides a pasta-like texture, and the homemade basil pesto and tangy sun-dried tomatoes add depth and richness to this light dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- ½ cup homemade basil pesto (or store-bought, sugar-free)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook.
- Add the pesto and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, tossing to coat the zucchini noodles evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the zucchini noodles topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Zucchini noodles with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes are a great low-carb alternative to pasta, offering a fresh and savory option that’s rich in flavor. The pesto adds a burst of aromatic freshness, while the sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy richness that elevates the dish. It’s an ideal option for anyone seeking a healthy, light, yet satisfying holiday dish.
Almond Joy Fat Bombs
These Almond Joy fat bombs are a delicious, low-carb, sugar-free treat that tastes just like the famous candy bar, but with healthier ingredients. Packed with healthy fats from coconut and almonds, they make a perfect holiday snack or dessert that won’t spike blood sugar levels.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tbsp almond butter
- ¼ cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- ¼ cup almonds (whole or chopped)
- 2 tbsp erythritol or preferred sugar substitute
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, almond butter, erythritol, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.
- Melt the coconut oil and chocolate chips together in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Add the melted chocolate mixture to the coconut and almond butter mixture, and stir to combine.
- Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or a lined muffin tin, pressing an almond into the center of each fat bomb.
- Freeze for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Once firm, remove from the molds and store in an airtight container in the freezer.
These Almond Joy fat bombs are a great low-carb, high-fat treat for satisfying your sweet tooth during the holidays. They’re perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or diabetic-friendly diet, as they’re sweetened with erythritol and full of healthy fats. The crunchy almonds and creamy coconut combine with the rich chocolate to create a decadent snack that tastes just like a candy bar, without the added sugar.
Cauliflower Rice Pilaf with Almonds and Cranberries
This cauliflower rice pilaf with almonds and cranberries is a low-carb, diabetic-friendly side dish that’s perfect for any holiday meal. The cauliflower rice takes on the texture of traditional rice, and the crunchy almonds and sweet-tart cranberries add both flavor and texture, making this a festive and healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces (or use pre-made cauliflower rice)
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- ½ cup dried cranberries (sugar-free)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the grated cauliflower rice to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden.
- Add the toasted almonds and dried cranberries, stirring to incorporate. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This cauliflower rice pilaf is a healthy, flavorful side dish that captures the spirit of a traditional rice pilaf but with fewer carbs. The cauliflower rice provides a base that mimics the texture of rice, while the toasted almonds and cranberries add festive flavors that are perfect for the holiday season. It’s a great diabetic-friendly option for anyone looking for a lighter alternative to rice-based dishes.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!