Carb Free Vegetarian Recipes UK for Healthy Eating

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Embarking on a carb-free vegetarian journey might sound challenging, especially in the UK where traditional meals often lean heavily on carbs like potatoes, bread, and pasta. But fear not!

There are plenty of delicious, satisfying dishes that fit perfectly into a low-carb vegetarian lifestyle without compromising on flavor or nutrition. Whether you’re here to manage your carbohydrate intake for health reasons or simply want to explore vibrant plant-based meals, these recipes deliver wholesome goodness with every bite.

In this post, you’ll discover a variety of creative, easy-to-make carb-free vegetarian recipes tailored for UK kitchens. From hearty mains to refreshing sides, these dishes showcase the versatility of vegetables, nuts, cheeses, and spices.

Plus, they’re crafted to keep you full, energized, and inspired. Dive in and start cooking without the carbs!

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

Carb-free vegetarian recipes can often feel limiting, but these dishes prove otherwise. They’re packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that not only taste fantastic but also support your well-being.

By focusing on fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and plant-based proteins, you’ll enjoy meals that are low in carbs but high in satisfaction.

These recipes are perfect for anyone living in the UK who wants to maintain a low-carb diet without missing out on traditional flavors and hearty textures. They also cater wonderfully to vegetarians looking for creative, carb-conscious options.

Plus, with easy-to-follow instructions and common kitchen equipment, you’ll be whipping up these dishes in no time.

Ingredients

  • Mixed leafy greens (spinach, kale, rocket) – 200g
  • Cauliflower – 1 medium head
  • Zucchini – 2 medium
  • Cherry tomatoes – 150g
  • Avocado – 1 ripe
  • Feta cheese – 100g
  • Walnuts – 50g, chopped
  • Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
  • Garlic cloves – 3, minced
  • Fresh basil – a handful, chopped
  • Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
  • Salt and pepper – to taste
  • Chili flakes – optional, for a little heat

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Food processor or box grater
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large frying pan or skillet
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Serving plates

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower rice: Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower. Break it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice grains. Alternatively, grate it using a box grater.
  2. Sauté the cauliflower rice: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but not mushy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the zucchini noodles: Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create noodles from the zucchini. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let them drain for 10 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture.
  4. Make the salad base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed leafy greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh basil.
  5. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.
  6. Combine all components: Add the sautéed cauliflower rice and drained zucchini noodles to the salad bowl. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
  7. Finish with toppings: Slice the avocado and gently fold into the salad. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts over the top for added texture and creaminess.
  8. Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the vibrant textures and flavors.

Tips & Variations

Tip: If you prefer a warm dish, lightly sauté the zucchini noodles for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the salad.

For a protein boost, consider adding some roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu cubes. Although chickpeas contain some carbs, they add excellent plant-based protein and fiber.

Swap feta with goat cheese or halloumi for a different flavor profile. Adding fresh herbs like mint or coriander can give the salad an exciting twist.

You can also experiment with nuts—try pecans or almonds if walnuts aren’t your favorite.

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 8 g
Fat 22 g
Carbohydrates 8 g
Fiber 5 g
Sugar 3 g

Serving Suggestions

This carb-free vegetarian salad shines as a light lunch or a side dish alongside your favourite British mains. Pair it with a warming bowl of Lectin Free Soup for a balanced meal.

For a more substantial dinner, serve with grilled halloumi or a side of roasted portobello mushrooms. You could also enjoy it alongside some crispy low-carb crackers; try our Lemon Crackers Recipe for a zesty complement.

Conclusion

Going carb-free as a vegetarian in the UK doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or variety. This recipe highlights how easy and enjoyable it is to create delicious, filling meals using fresh vegetables, nuts, and cheeses.

The combination of cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, and crunchy walnuts offers a delightful texture contrast while keeping carbs in check.

By incorporating recipes like this into your weekly routine, you’ll discover a whole new world of vegetarian cooking that’s both health-conscious and utterly satisfying. If you’re curious to explore more, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food for another tasty carb-conscious vegetarian option.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with these carb-free vegetarian delights — your taste buds and body will thank you!

📖 Recipe Card: Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Description: A delicious carb-free vegetarian dish featuring fresh zucchini noodles tossed in basil pesto and garnished with juicy cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT5M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Spiralize the zucchinis and set aside.
  2. Blend basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make pesto.
  3. Toss zucchini noodles with pesto until evenly coated.
  4. Add cherry tomatoes and gently mix.
  5. Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 30 g | Carbs: 8 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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