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You are here: Home / Archives for Appetizers & Side Dishes

Appetizers & Side Dishes

Easy, nutritious appetizers and side dishes for everyday or fun party foods. All these recipes are gluten free and many are low carb. From finger foods: 10-minute cucumber bites to crunchy grain-free bruschetta cheese crisps to pub-style Irish nachos to popular sides: how to cut and cook spaghetti squash, easy keto bacon Brussels sprouts, how to make velvety smooth gravy and much more!

Easy Homemade Guacamole Recipe

Published September 11, 2026 | Last Updated September 20, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 10 Comments

This easy guacamole is made by mashing ripe avocado with fresh lime juice, tomato, red onion, cilantro, and salt. Plus unlike traditional guacamole recipes, this version uses salsa for an extra layer of flavor, while keeping the preparation simple, fresh, and completely no-cook. Guacamole is one of those things I can never resist. Creamy avocado,…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Egg free, Keto, LOW CARB, Nut free, Paleo, Pinned, Recipe, Vegetarian, WHOLE 30 Recipes

What to Do With Too Much Zucchini (17 Easy Recipes to Use It Up)

Published March 11, 2026 | Last Updated September 11, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 10 Comments

gluten free zucchini zoodles organic vegetable gardening

Got extra zucchini? When the kitchen counter starts filling up, it helps to have a few easy ideas ready. These zucchini recipes turn summer squash into cozy dinners, simple sides, quick snacks, and even a few surprising ways to use it up.      If you grow zucchini or visit farmers markets in the summer,…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dinner, Recipe, Vegetables & Salads

Easy Manhattan Clam Chowder Recipe That’s Naturally Gluten Free And Low Carb

Published December 28, 2025 | Last Updated September 11, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 9 Comments

This Manhattan clam chowder is warm, savory, and deeply comforting without feeling heavy or complicated. Made with simple ingredients and naturally gluten free and low carb, it’s a one-pot dish that delivers real flavor and an easy win when you want comfort food that still supports your feel-good goals. This new Manhattan clam chowder is…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Egg free, Fish And Seafood, Keto, LOW CARB, Paleo, Recipe, Soups, Soups & Chili, WHOLE 30 Recipes

Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

Published November 6, 2024 | Last Updated September 13, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 16 Comments

Indulge in the rich flavor of this easy-to-make caramelized onion dip. It’s smooth, savory, and perfect for dipping! Great for parties, game day, movie nights, or casual snacks. Caramelized Onion Dip, combines rich, caramelized onions, a hint of rosemary and crispy bacon for a dip that’s creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible!       Without…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, LOW CARB, Nut free, Recipe

Au Jus Gravy Recipe (Low Carb)

Published December 22, 2023 | Last Updated July 17, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 15 Comments

This low-carb Au Jus is a traditional pan sauce made from roast drippings, wine, broth, and simple seasonings. Unlike recipes thickened with flour or cornstarch, it delivers rich, concentrated flavor while staying naturally gluten free and low carb. Ah, there’s something undeniably wonderful that happens in a kitchen, especially when the aroma of a roast…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Egg free, LOW CARB, Most Popular Recipes, Paleo, Recipe, Thanksgiving

8 Best Keto Snacks

Published November 26, 2023 | Last Updated April 6, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 22 Comments

These best keto snacks are low carb, and not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. In this collection, I’ve curated a selection of mouthwatering recipes designed to fuel your low-carb journey. Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or just beginning your carb-conscious adventure, these delightful creations are sure to keep your cravings at…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Keto, LOW CARB, Pinned, Recipe

Crispy Salami Chips Recipe

Published November 21, 2023 | Last Updated April 24, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 20 Comments

Crispy salami chips are a smart snack with this easy, homemade recipe that turns simple salami slices into savory chips. Quick and satisfying. It’s afternoon tea time, and sometimes I get a craving for a little snack along with my tea. That’s when my go-to, solution comes to the rescue: crispy salami chips. These babies are…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Egg free, Keto, LOW CARB, Nut free, Paleo, Recipe

How To Make Caprese Salad: A Classic Italian Appetizer

Published November 17, 2023 | Last Updated February 9, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 16 Comments

Savor the simplicity of this Caprese salad. A quick, no-cook platter of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil that turns an ordinary day into extraordinary. Your delicious escape is just minutes away.   Nothing captures the essence of sunshine like a caprese salad (pronounced kuh·pray·zay). It’s the ultimate no-cook, no-fuss, no-stress dish that you can whip up in…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, Italian-inspired recipes, Keto, LOW CARB, Paleo, Recipe

Chicken Soup: A Wholesome Low Carb, Gluten-Free, Whole 30 Recipe

Published November 12, 2023 | Last Updated June 8, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 19 Comments

This whole chicken soup is a simple, from-scratch recipe made by gently simmering a whole chicken with vegetables and aromatics on the stovetop or in your slow cooker. Unlike quicker chicken soups that rely on pre-made broth or cooked chicken, this version builds rich flavor from the bone-in simmer for a deeper, more traditional taste….

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Egg free, Keto, LOW CARB, Nut free, Paleo, Recipe, Soups, Soups & Chili, WHOLE 30 Recipes

Spicy Salmon Sushi Cups in Crispy Ham (Gluten-Free, Low Carb)

Published December 16, 2022 | Last Updated March 31, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 19 Comments

These baked salmon sushi cups are the kind of easy win you make once and keep coming back to. Crispy ham wraps around tender, spicy salmon for no-fuss, gluten-free bites that feel comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to pull together. Enjoy! These Spicy Salmon Bake Cups are so incredibly delicious and quick to make. The…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Egg free, Fish And Seafood, LOW CARB, Paleo, Recipe, WHOLE 30 Recipes

Dr. Ted Naiman’s P:E Potatoes Au Gratin

Published August 5, 2022 | Last Updated March 31, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 10 Comments

Thinly sliced potatoes are layered in a creamy low-fat yogurt and cheddar cheese sauce and then topped with low-fat Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a delicious and healthy high-protein potatoes au gratin casserole.  Today, Barbara and I (John) will be reviewing a potatoes au gratin recipe that Dr. Ted Naiman featured on his twitter account….

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, LOW CARB, Nut free, Recipe, Reviews

Spoon Bread Recipe With Rosemary And Bacon

Published July 14, 2021 | Last Updated December 11, 2024 By Barbara Bianchi 11 Comments

Today, I’ve jazzed up my gluten free spoon bread recipe with rosemary and bacon. It’s a delicious side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. I first had spoon bread on one of my family’s many vacations to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. We originally visited Gettysburg because we have several Civil War buffs in the family, but we…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Gluten Free Bread Recipes, Nut free, Recipe

Sautéed Broccoli With Garlic Recipe

Published January 27, 2021 | Last Updated August 8, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 5 Comments

It’s really about time I share this recipe with you. I make this sautéed broccoli side dish for nearly every family dinner. My whole family loves it. Who could resist the vibrant green tender broccoli in a luscious blend of oil and garlic? Add butter and a little salt, and even the pickiest eaters will be devouring their greens.

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, Keto, LOW CARB, Nut free, Paleo, Recipe, Recipes with dairy-free option, Vegetables & Salads, Vegetarian, WHOLE 30 Recipes

Low Carb Cauliflower Stuffing Recipe

Published November 24, 2020 | Last Updated October 30, 2024 By Barbara Bianchi 1 Comment

Emergency recipe! While I was writing up my Thanksgiving menu, I realized that I didn’t have a stuffing recipe planned. Oh my. The Thanksgiving meal just doesn’t feel complete without stuffing. Since I’m following a low carb diet, however, bread stuffing is a no-no. Cauliflower to the rescue.

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, Keto, LOW CARB, Nut free, Paleo, Recipe, Recipes with dairy-free option, Thanksgiving, Vegetables & Salads, WHOLE 30 Recipes

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara (No Egg) Recipe

Published October 21, 2020 | Last Updated August 7, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 2 Comments

Recently, my dear friend Patty gave me her recipe for an egg-free carbonara paired with zucchini noodles (zoodles). Zoodles are a fantastic nutritious substitute for the spaghetti in the classic Italian dish. But I happened to have a spaghetti squash ripening on my kitchen counter, and I thought it would…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dinner, Egg free, Italian-inspired recipes, LOW CARB, Paleo, Recipe, Vegetables & Salads

10-Minute Cucumber Bites (With Three Amazing Toppings)

Published September 5, 2020 | Last Updated November 30, 2025 By Barbara Bianchi 8 Comments

Today, I was reminiscing with my daughter about the amazing bagels we used to get at a local deli when we lived in New York. I don’t eat bagels anymore because I’m on a low carb diet, but I wondered if there was a way to make a keto-friendly snack that would capture our favorite bagel flavor.

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Keto, LOW CARB, Paleo, Recipe

Orange Pan Sauce

Published August 25, 2020 | Last Updated September 20, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 2 Comments

Orange pan sauce is quick, easy and ready in less than ten minutes! Pair with fish, pasta, chicken or beef. This lovely sauce has a burst of citrusy sweetness, a touch of Dijon zing, a sprinkle of thyme and a swirl of creamy butter for a wonderful finishing touch. It’s like my Orange Herb Roasted Chicken’s cousin,…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, Nut free, Paleo, Recipe

Pistachio Maple Pan Sauce Recipe

Published August 24, 2020 | Last Updated March 7, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 4 Comments

Think maple syrup is just for pancakes? Think again. A handful of pistachios and a drizzle of syrup make this pan sauce an easy way to make weeknight dinners feel a little special. If dinner has been feeling a little repetitive lately, this Pistachio Maple Pan Sauce is an easy way to change things up…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, Paleo, Recipe

Creamy Mustard Pan Sauce Recipe

Published August 23, 2020 | Last Updated March 28, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 4 Comments

If you’ve ever felt like your dinner is missing something, this is one of the easiest ways to fix it. This creamy mustard pan sauce comes together right in the same pan with simple ingredients and adds rich, savory flavor to chicken, fish, or vegetables. If you love a hint of tang, this creamy sauce…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, LOW CARB, Nut free, Paleo, Recipe

Honey Dijon Pan Sauce

Published August 22, 2020 | Last Updated April 30, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 1 Comment

This honey dijon pan sauce is a quick barbecue sauce that’s ready in just ten minutes. If you love that flavor of a rich barbecue sauce, you have to try this sauce. This is a simple version of my honey barbecue sauce from my slow cooker brisket recipe. It conjures up thoughts of sunshine and backyard cookouts….

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Egg free, Paleo, Recipe

Tomato Basil Quick Pan Sauce Recipe

Published August 21, 2020 | Last Updated November 18, 2025 By Barbara Bianchi 1 Comment

Buttery tomato basil sauce is just what you may be craving for dinner tonight. And it’ll be ready in 20 minutes. This might be the quickest tomato sauce ever. The secret? Fresh cherry tomatoes! The little cherry tomatoes burst when they’re heated. Yum. This sauce bears resemblance to the tomato sauce used in my Garlic…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, Paleo, Recipe

Easy Lemon And Capers Pan Sauce Recipe

Published August 19, 2020 | Last Updated March 4, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 4 Comments

This easy lemon and capers pan sauce is bright, buttery, and full of fresh flavor. Made right in your skillet with simple ingredients, it’s a flourless, piccata-style sauce that comes together in minutes. Spoon it over chicken, fish, or sautéed vegetables for a light, comforting finish that feels special without making dinner complicated. You know…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Egg free, LOW CARB, Nut free, Paleo, Recipe

Keto Coleslaw With Sugar Free Dressing Recipe

Published July 22, 2020 | Last Updated April 10, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 4 Comments

With summer upon us, it’s picnic time! And that means it’s time for coleslaw. Store bought coleslaw can be loaded with sugar. So why not make it at home? You can control the ingredients for a guilt-free, nutritious side dish that everyone at your table will love. What makes this coleslaw special? Sugar-free avocado mayo. It’s delicious.

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Keto, LOW CARB, Nut free, Paleo, Recipe, Vegetables & Salads, WHOLE 30 Recipes

How To Make Homemade Applesauce

Published May 29, 2020 | Last Updated April 10, 2026 By Barbara Bianchi 1 Comment

Applesauce always brings back fond memories of my grandma who my family affectionately called “Nanny”. Whenever I visited Nanny as a child, she was always in the kitchen cookin’ up something yummy. There was the heavenly aroma of…

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Filed Under: Appetizers & Side Dishes, Dairy free, Fall Favorites, Gluten Free Dessert Recipes, Nut free, Paleo,