Here are a few of my favorite low-carb store-bought delights!
The day I discovered Mission Carb Balance Flour Tortillas, my keto head exploded. I don’t remember what words came out of my mouth, but my enthusiasm garnered the attention of several shoppers.
A regular 6-inch Mission flour tortilla contains 17 net carbs. The Carb Balance, a mere 4 net carbs. That’s a savings of 13. The 8-inch tortilla reduces from 25 net carbs down to 6. This find was a life-changer – quesadillas, burritos, wraps – all back on the menu! And best of all, they taste spectacular.
When making cold wraps, I use them right out of the fridge so they stay firm. Making soft tacos? Place in an oil-free skillet and cook over medium heat for 30 seconds each side. In a hurry? Cover with paper towels and microwave for about 5 seconds per tortilla. If you prefer crispy, melt butter in a skillet and cook over medium-high heat on each side until browned.
When I’m too tired (or lazy) to make our Fat Heat Pizza, I pull Milton’s Cauliflower Crust Roast Vegetable Pizza out of the freezer. It’s the best frozen pizza I’ve ever eaten. They come in a 2-pack box and are very reasonably priced. I layer on shredded Parmesan cheese first, then pepperoni, and top with mozzarella cheese. The crust is thin and crispy, without any taste of cauliflower at all. Two slices (1/4 pizza) come in at 25 net carbs (a bit on the high side) but that’s a good 50% less than most.
We have to give Amy the credit for this game-changer. Pasta has been missed in our family. Really missed. We usually spiral zucchni which is just fine, but when you taste the neutral flavor and pasta-like texture of Palmini Hearts of Palm Angel Hair you’re gonna flip like we did. Make sure to follow the directions on the can, always rinsing well in cold water first. It’s very important to press out the moisture well before serving, otherwise you’ll have a watery mess when you add sauce. We like to boil the Hearts of Palm Angel Hair for 10 minutes before topping with our favorite low carb marinara sauce. 1 can contains only 6 net carbs, but you won’t be able to chow down that much. We split the can for only 3 net carbs each.
And speaking of marinara sauce, Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce is a gem of a low carb sauce. Several varieties, but our favorite is Arrabbiata. One serving (1/2 cup) contains just 5 net carbs. All natural, and no added sugars. A huge time-saver and the best flavor we’ve tasted.
I came across Tattooed Chef’s Organic Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry in the frozen isle at Costco. It contains 4 – 12 ounce bags, plenty for 4 meals. The cauliflower rice is mixed with peas, corn, and red bell pepper, and tossed with a sesame-ginger sauce. It. Is. Amazing. A one cup serving is only 6 net carbs and with a flavor profile that’ll knock your socks off!
And now, on to the sweet stuff. My sister, Annie, brought me Elevations bars when I was ill this past summer. She asked me if I liked Mounds bars. Ummm, YES. Their chocolate coconut bars taste almost identical, but with 2 net carbs per bar. Compare that with the 29 net carbs you’ll digest in a Mounds bar. Elevation bars come in a variety of flavors. My favs: chocolate coconut and almond coconut, the latter coming in at 3 net carbs. The cheapest price I’ve found is at Aldi’s.
Amy got me hooked on Smart Sweets Sweet Fish. Nearly identical to the taste and texture as in the original Swedish fish candy but with only 3 net carbs for this 50 gram pack! Compare that with the original – same amount is 41.3 net carbs. When Amy was a toddler, I’d bring her home a small bag from Sears, where I worked the cash register in the toy department. To this day, Amy and I have a special place in our hearts for Swedish fish candy. I buy on Amazon in bulk for the best price. 12 packets come in at $2.75 per individual pack.
The fish show 18 net grams on Amazon. 42g carbs – 13g (fiber) – 11g (Allulose)
Thank you so much for pointing this out to me. I’ve done some research and found that in 2020, the company changed the formulation of their “smart” sweets and the carb count went way up! I’m removing this from my list of Exceptional Ready-to-Eat Keto Foods. Definitely not what I’d consider keto or low-carb anymore.
Hi,
Thanks so much! I saw you on GMA3 to – you were great! I’ve read a lot but was wondering if you have a 7 day starter menu and a shopping list. I’m making the chili now!
Dear Carolynn, Thank you for the lovely comment. Copy and paste into your browser https://myketohome.com/keto-basics/page/2/?et_blog It will take you to “Keto Basics” which is also found under “Recipes” at top of the home page. Scroll to second page to find “Keto Diet Food List” and “Stocking Your Keto Pantry.” These articles will help you with your shopping list. I do not have a 7 day diet plan, but I hope you enjoy the chili.