Snowed In? 5 Low-Carb Snacks You Can Make with Pantry Staples

As South Louisiana experiences this rare and crazy snowstorm, most of us find ourselves stuck at home, cozying up under blankets and looking for ways to pass the time. If you saw our post yesterday, we promised to share some simple, low-carb snacks you can make from items you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Here are five easy recipes to keep you nourished while you enjoy this winter wonderland from the comfort of your home.

1. Boiled Eggs with Cajun Seasoning

Grab those eggs sitting in your fridge and boil them for a quick, protein-packed snack. Sprinkle a little Cajun seasoning or hot sauce for that South Louisiana flair. This snack is low-carb, filling, and incredibly easy to make.

2. Cheese Crisps

Take shredded cheese or slices (cheddar, Parmesan, or any favorite) and bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F until crisp. These crunchy, low-carb bites are perfect for snacking or dipping into salsa or guacamole if you have it.

3. Pork Rinds with Dip

Pork rinds are a low-carb staple in many South Louisiana pantries. Pair them with a simple dip made from cream cheese and a splash of hot sauce or salsa for a satisfying snack. If you have Greek yogurt, you can use it as a base for a tangy alternative.

4. Avocado Mash

Got an avocado? Mash it up with some salt, pepper, and a dash of lemon or lime juice. Use celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or even spoon it straight out of the bowl for a healthy, low-carb treat.

5. Sausage Bites

Pull out any smoked sausage or boudin you have in the freezer. Slice it into bite-sized pieces and sauté or bake until cooked through. Pair with mustard or sugar-free BBQ sauce for a snack that’s loaded with protein and flavor.

Turning to Gumbo? Here’s How to Keep It Diet-Friendly

If this weather has you craving a warm bowl of gumbo, don’t worry—you can enjoy it without completely derailing your low-carb goals. Gumbo is a Louisiana classic, but it can be high in carbs due to the roux and rice. Here are three tips to keep it lighter:

1. Skip the Rice or Use Cauliflower Rice: Traditional gumbo is served over white rice, which is high in carbs. Swap it out for cauliflower rice, or skip the rice entirely and enjoy the gumbo as a hearty soup.
2. Watch the Roux: The roux is often made with equal parts flour and oil. To cut carbs, use almond flour or coconut flour instead of regular flour, or make a lighter roux with less flour overall.
3. Pile on the Protein and Veggies: Focus on the shrimp, chicken, sausage, or any protein you’ve included in the gumbo, as well as the okra and other vegetables. These ingredients are naturally low in carbs and full of flavor.

Nutrition Facts of Gumbo

A traditional bowl of gumbo can range between 200-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion size. However, the carb count can climb quickly due to the roux and rice, with an average bowl containing 30-50 grams of carbohydrates. By making the swaps above, you can cut the carb content significantly and still enjoy this comforting dish.

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