Italian cuisine is beloved for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting dishes.
Many traditional Italian meals, like pasta and pizza, are high in carbs, but you don’t have to give up flavor to follow a low-carb lifestyle.
These 15 low carb Italian recipes offer a variety of options, from hearty main courses to light appetizers and satisfying sides.
Using ingredients like zucchini, cauliflower, chicken, and cheese, these dishes keep the essence of Italian cooking alive while cutting down on carbs.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, entertaining guests, or following a keto-friendly diet, these recipes provide authentic taste without the carb load.
You’ll find dishes that are easy to prepare, nutrient-packed, and full of rich Italian flavors that everyone will love.
15 Delicious Low Carb Italian Recipes for Every Meal
Low carb Italian recipes show that you can enjoy the rich flavors of Italy without overloading on carbs.
These 15 recipes feature creative ways to replace high-carb ingredients with vegetables, lean proteins, and low-carb alternatives.
They are perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or special occasions.
With a balance of fresh herbs, cheeses, and flavorful sauces, you can enjoy Italian classics while staying on track with your health goals.
Cooking low carb doesn’t mean sacrificing taste—these recipes prove that Italian cuisine can be both authentic and healthy.
Zucchini Lasagna
This zucchini lasagna is a low-carb twist on a classic Italian favorite.
Thinly sliced zucchini replaces traditional pasta layers, keeping the dish light and nutritious.
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese create a creamy, savory filling with Italian herbs for authentic flavor.
Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for a satisfying dinner.
A flavorful, low-carb alternative that transforms zucchini into a hearty, cheesy Italian meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low sugar)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Layer zucchini slices, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used.
- Bake 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
Zucchini provides a low-carb pasta substitute.
Cheese adds creaminess and flavor.
This dish is hearty, cheesy, and perfect for low-carb Italian dinners.
Cauliflower Risotto
This cauliflower risotto is creamy, comforting, and low in carbs.
Riced cauliflower replaces traditional Arborio rice, reducing carbs while maintaining texture.
Parmesan, butter, garlic, and fresh herbs add rich, authentic Italian flavor.
Perfect as a side dish or a main course, it’s fast, nutritious, and satisfying.
A delicious, low-carb alternative that captures the essence of classic Italian risotto.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cauliflower rice
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt, pepper, and parsley to taste
Instructions:
- Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add cauliflower rice and vegetable broth, cook 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan, season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Serve hot.
Cauliflower replaces traditional risotto rice.
Parmesan adds creaminess and flavor.
This risotto is low-carb, rich, and full of Italian flair.
Chicken Piccata
This chicken piccata is a tangy, flavorful low-carb Italian dish.
Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared and finished in a lemon, caper, and butter sauce.
The sauce is bright, savory, and pairs perfectly with a side of sautéed vegetables.
Quick to prepare, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
A zesty, protein-packed Italian classic made low-carb without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp capers
- Salt, pepper, and parsley to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken, add butter, lemon juice, and capers to the pan.
- Pour sauce over chicken, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Chicken provides protein and substance.
Lemon and capers add bright, zesty flavor.
This dish is tangy, quick, and perfect for low-carb dinners.
Eggplant Parmesan
This eggplant Parmesan is a low-carb, baked Italian favorite.
Slices of eggplant are roasted instead of fried, reducing carbs and calories.
Layered with marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan, it’s rich, cheesy, and flavorful.
Baked until bubbly, it’s a comforting main dish or side.
A hearty, cheesy, low-carb alternative that keeps the Italian tradition alive.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low sugar)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roast eggplant slices 10–12 minutes until tender.
- Layer eggplant, marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, bake 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Serve warm.
Eggplant provides a low-carb base.
Cheese and sauce add richness and flavor.
This casserole is cheesy, comforting, and low-carb.
Italian Sausage and Zucchini Skillet
This Italian sausage and zucchini skillet is savory, hearty, and low-carb.
Sautéed sausage, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions create a flavorful, one-pan meal.
Garlic and Italian herbs enhance the aroma and depth of the dish.
Quick to cook, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
A protein-packed, low-carb Italian dish that’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 Italian sausages, sliced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
- Add sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in zucchini and Italian seasoning, cook 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Serve hot.
Zucchini adds freshness and texture.
Sausage provides protein and flavor.
This skillet is quick, hearty, and perfect for low-carb Italian meals.
Keto Alfredo Zucchini Noodles
This keto Alfredo zucchini noodle dish is creamy, rich, and low-carb.
Zucchini noodles replace pasta while still delivering a satisfying texture.
A homemade Alfredo sauce with butter, cream, and Parmesan coats the noodles for authentic Italian flavor.
Perfect for a quick dinner, it’s indulgent without the carb load.
A creamy, comforting low-carb Italian meal that satisfies pasta cravings.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan, stir until smooth.
- Toss zucchini noodles in the sauce for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.
Zucchini provides a low-carb pasta alternative.
Alfredo sauce adds creaminess and richness.
This dish is indulgent, low-carb, and full of flavor.
Low Carb Caprese Salad
This Caprese salad is fresh, simple, and low-carb.
Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil create a classic Italian combination.
Drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, it’s a perfect appetizer or side.
Quick to assemble, it highlights fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.
A refreshing, low-carb Italian dish that’s healthy, vibrant, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on a serving plate.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately.
Tomatoes and basil provide freshness.
Mozzarella adds creaminess and protein.
This salad is vibrant, easy, and perfect for low-carb meals.
Eggplant Rollatini
This eggplant rollatini is a low-carb, cheesy Italian delight.
Thin slices of eggplant are rolled with ricotta, spinach, and herbs, then topped with marinara and mozzarella.
Baked until bubbly, they’re perfect for a main dish or dinner party.
Healthy, satisfying, and flavorful, this dish is a creative alternative to pasta-based meals.
A delicious low-carb Italian recipe that’s hearty and cheesy.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced thin
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix ricotta, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread mixture on eggplant slices and roll up.
- Place in a baking dish, top with marinara and mozzarella.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
Eggplant provides a low-carb base.
Cheese adds creaminess and richness.
This rollatini is flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for low-carb dinners.
Chicken Marsala
This Chicken Marsala is a savory, low-carb Italian favorite.
Chicken breasts are pan-seared and simmered in a mushroom and Marsala wine sauce.
Rich, earthy flavors make this dish perfect for dinner or entertaining guests.
Paired with sautéed vegetables, it’s a low-carb meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
A flavorful, protein-packed Italian dish that’s elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup Marsala wine
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, cook until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and sauté mushrooms in the same pan.
- Add Marsala wine and butter, simmer until sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to pan, coat with sauce, and serve hot.
Chicken provides protein and substance.
Mushroom and Marsala sauce add depth and flavor.
This dish is rich, savory, and low-carb.
Keto Meatballs in Marinara
These keto meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and low-carb.
Made with ground beef, Parmesan, and almond flour, they’re baked and served with a rich marinara sauce.
Perfect as a main course or appetizer, they’re satisfying and family-friendly.
Quick to prepare, they capture the taste of traditional Italian meatballs without the carbs.
A hearty, protein-packed low-carb Italian dish full of flavor and comfort.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ¼ cup almond flour
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low sugar)
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until cooked through.
- Heat marinara sauce, add meatballs, and serve hot.
Almond flour keeps meatballs low-carb.
Parmesan and herbs add flavor and richness.
These meatballs are juicy, savory, and perfect for a low-carb Italian meal.
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken
This spinach and ricotta stuffed chicken is a low-carb Italian-inspired dish.
Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
Baked until golden and tender, it’s perfect for a hearty dinner.
The flavors are rich yet light, making it a satisfying low-carb option.
A protein-packed, flavorful Italian dish that’s elegant and family-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and fill with mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to oven and bake 20 minutes until cooked through.
Chicken provides protein and substance.
Ricotta and spinach add creaminess and flavor.
This dish is flavorful, elegant, and low-carb.
Low Carb Eggplant Caponata
This low-carb eggplant caponata is a tangy, Italian vegetable dish.
Eggplant, tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives combine with vinegar and herbs for a sweet and sour flavor.
It can be served as a side dish or appetizer.
Rich in flavor and nutrients, it’s a perfect addition to a low-carb meal plan.
A versatile, healthy, and satisfying Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- ¼ cup olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp oregano, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté eggplant and bell pepper 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Add tomatoes, olives, balsamic vinegar, and oregano.
- Cook 5 more minutes until flavors combine.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve.
Eggplant adds texture and nutrients.
Balsamic vinegar adds tangy sweetness.
This dish is flavorful, colorful, and low-carb.
Keto Italian Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers are a hearty, low-carb Italian dinner.
Bell peppers are filled with ground turkey, zucchini, marinara, and mozzarella.
Baked until tender, they’re colorful, flavorful, and satisfying.
A low-carb twist on a classic Italian meal that’s both healthy and comforting.
A balanced, protein-packed dish perfect for dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers, tops removed
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low sugar)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté ground turkey and zucchini until cooked.
- Stir in marinara, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill bell peppers with mixture, top with mozzarella.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is golden.
Bell peppers provide color and fiber.
Turkey adds protein and substance.
These stuffed peppers are hearty, cheesy, and low-carb.
Low Carb Chicken Parmesan
This low-carb chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian favorite made healthy.
Chicken breasts are coated with almond flour and Parmesan, then baked and topped with marinara and mozzarella.
It’s crispy, cheesy, and satisfying without breading or pasta.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s full of flavor and protein.
A delicious low-carb Italian dish that satisfies cravings while staying healthy.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- ¼ cup almond flour
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low sugar)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix almond flour, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken in mixture and place on baking sheet.
- Bake 20 minutes, top with marinara and mozzarella.
- Bake 10 more minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
Almond flour provides a low-carb crust.
Cheese and marinara add richness and flavor.
This dish is cheesy, flavorful, and low-carb.
Zucchini and Prosciutto Rolls
These zucchini and prosciutto rolls are a light, low-carb Italian appetizer.
Thin zucchini slices are wrapped around prosciutto and ricotta, then baked briefly.
Fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil enhance the flavor.
Quick, elegant, and perfect for entertaining or as a starter.
A healthy, low-carb Italian appetizer that’s flavorful, light, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 6 slices prosciutto
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix ricotta, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread mixture on zucchini slices and roll with prosciutto.
- Place rolls on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
Zucchini provides a fresh, low-carb base.
Prosciutto and ricotta add savory flavor and creaminess.
These rolls are elegant, easy, and perfect for low-carb Italian appetizers.
