57 Perfect Italian Recipes for People with Diabetes
Updated: Mar. 15, 2024
Unlike carb-heavy pasta dishes and casseroles, these Italian (and Italian-inspired) dishes are perfect for your healthy, balanced lifestyle. We've even included dessert, too!
Cioppino-Style Soup
This classic San Fransisco soup makes an easy, healthy and flavorful dinner. I serve it every New Year’s Eve, and I’ll often include salmon along with the cod, shrimp and crab. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Goat Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Nutrition Facts1 stuffed chicken breast: 347 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 532mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 39g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 7 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
This spinach-stuffed chicken breast recipe is special to me because it has so much flavor, yet not too many calories. I love Italian food, but most of the time it is too heavy. This is a healthy twist on an Italian dish! —Nicole Stevens, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Understand diabetic exchanges to simplify your healthy diet.
Tomato-Cucumber Mozzarella Salad
Nutrition Facts3/4 cup: 160 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 265mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1 vegetable.
I used fresh mozzarella for the first time last year and loved it. I wanted to incorporate it into as many dishes as possible and came up with this salad. It has quickly become a mainstay at my house. —Jennifer Klann, Corbett, Oregon
Italian Chicken and Penne
Nutrition Facts1-1/3 cups: 291 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 214mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 0.500 fat.
This easy stir-fry combines the pasta with green pepper, mushrooms and tomatoes in an Italian-style sauce. I made up this recipe one evening, and it was a big hit with my family. —Janeen Longfellow, Wolcottville, Indiana
Italian Tomato Cucumber Salad
Nutrition Facts1/2 cup: 93 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 257mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
This yummy medley of vegetables is a cool complement to zesty dishes like my fish, and also barbecued meats and poultry.—Florine Bruns, Fredericksburg, Texas
Italian Cloud Eggs
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 96 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 190mg cholesterol, 234mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 medium-fat meat.
Drop egg yolks on nests of whipped Italian-seasoned egg whites, then bake in a cast-iron skillet. Dreamy! —Matthew Hass, Franklin, Wisconsin
Sicilian Steamed Leeks
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 83 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 77mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
I love the challenge of developing recipes for my garden leeks, a delicious underused vegetable. This Italian-flavored dish is a family favorite. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Must-Have Tiramisu
Nutrition Facts1 piece: 177 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 80mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat-free milk, 1 fat.
This is the perfect guilt-free version of a classic dessert. My friends even say that they prefer my lighter recipe over other tiramisu.—Ale Gambini, Beverly Hills, California
Saucy Spiced Pears
Nutrition Facts3/4 cup: 192 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 130mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 5g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fruit, 1 fat.
We serve these tangy, saucy pears over angel food cake, pound cake or with a little yogurt or vanilla ice cream. Sprinkle with a favorite topping. —Joy Zacharia, Clearwater, Florida
Italian Cabbage Soup
Nutrition Facts1 cup: 111 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 537mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 6g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.
After doing yard work on a windy day, we love to come in for a light but hearty soup like this one. It’s brimming with cabbage, veggies and white beans. Pass the oven-warmed bread! —Jennifer Stowell, Deep River, Iowa
Basil Vegetable Strata
Nutrition Facts1 piece: 322 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 201mg cholesterol, 620mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
I’ve been cooking this strata for years, and my family just can’t get enough! The fresh basil gives this healthy brunch dish an added flavor boost. —Jean L. Ecos, Hartland, Wisconsin
Chicken & Garlic with Fresh Herbs
Nutrition Facts1 chicken thigh with 2 tablespoons cooking juices: 203 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
The key to this savory chicken is the combination of garlic and fresh rosemary and thyme. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty Italian bread. —Jan Valdez, Lombard, Illinois
Lemon Chicken with Orzo
Nutrition Facts1-1/4 cups: 399 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 807mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 9g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
Here’s a dish that’s light and summery but still filling. My kids love all the veggies…for real! If you like a lot of lemon, stir in an extra splash of lemon juice just before serving. —Shannon Humphrey, Hampton, Virginia
Cod with Hearty Tomato Sauce
Nutrition Facts1 fillet with 3/4 cup sauce: 271 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 746mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
My father made up this sweet, flavorful recipe for my mother when he took over the cooking. We serve it with whole wheat pasta or brown rice. —Ann Marie Eberhart, Gig Harbor, Washington
Chicken Sausages with Polenta
Nutrition Facts2/3 cup sausage mixture with 2 slices polenta: 212 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 628mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
I get a kick out of serving this chicken sausage dish—everyone’s always on time for dinner when they know it’s on the menu. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Contest-Winning Easy Minestrone
Nutrition Facts1 cup: 180 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 443mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 7g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 lean meat.
This minestrone soup recipe is special to me because it’s one of the few dinners my entire family loves. And I can feel good about serving it because it’s full of nutrition and low in fat. —Lauren Brennan, Hood River, Oregon
Kale and Fennel Skillet
Nutrition Facts3/4 cup: 167 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 398mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
I love to mix different vegetables together and use unexpected herbs and spices to change things up. If you can’t find apple sausage for this skillet, a good mild Italian sausage would work just fine. —Patricia Levenson, Santa Ana, California
Italian Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Nutrition Facts1-1/4 cups: 109 calories, 11g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 343mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
For an Italian twist on salad, I mix greens with red onion, mushrooms, olives, pepperoncini, lemon juice and seasoning. Add tomatoes and carrots if you like. —Deborah Loop, Clinton Township, Michigan
Orange Ricotta Cake Roll
Nutrition Facts1 slice: 169 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 95mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch.
I come from a big Italian family where my mom cooked and baked many delicious meals and desserts from scratch. Now I like to do the same for my family. This cake is my finale to our Italian Christmas Eve dinner. —Cathy Banks, Encinitas, California
Garden Chicken Cacciatore
Nutrition Facts3 ounces cooked chicken with about 1/2 cup sauce: 207 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 410mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
Here’s the perfect Italian meal to serve company. While simmering, it frees you up to visit with your guests and always receives rave reviews! I like to serve it with hot cooked pasta, a tossed salad and a dry red wine. Mangia! —Martha Schirmacher, Sterling Heights, Michigan
Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Shells
Nutrition Facts3 stuffed shells: 313 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 642mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 medium-fat meat, 1/2 fat.
This is my own personal recipe. I’m very proud of it because I am still a beginner cook and it was the first recipe I created. You can adjust it to your liking by doubling the spinach or adding some meat. —Laci Hooten, McKinney, Texas
Contest-Winning Eggplant Parmesan
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 305 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 912mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 9g fiber), 18g protein.
Because my recipe calls for baking the eggplant instead of frying it, unlike most eggplant Parmesan recipes, it’s much healthier! It takes a little extra time, but the Italian flavors and rustic elegance are well worth it. —Laci Hooten, McKinney, Texas
Garlic Chicken with Herbs
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 214 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 487mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
Pan-roasting garlic cloves turns them into rich, creamy deliciousness. This chicken is fantastic with crusty Italian bread or mashed potatoes on the side. —Kathy Fleming, Lisle, Illinois
Frittata Florentine
Nutrition Facts1 slice: 176 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 174mg cholesterol, 451mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1/2 fat.
My family is all about brunchy meals like this gorgeous Italian omelet. Lucky for us, it’s loaded with ingredients we tend to have at the ready. —Jenny Flake, Newport Beach, California
Chicken with Fire-Roasted Tomatoes
Nutrition Facts1 chicken breast half with 1 cup bean mixture: 294 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 681mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 37g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
My skillet chicken with the colors and flavors of Italy is so easy. The fire-roasted tomatoes sound complicated, but all you have to do is open a can! —Margaret Wilson, Sun City, California
Slow-Roasted Root Vegetables
Nutrition Facts2/3 cup: 158 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 263mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch.
When she was a little girl growing up in Italy, my Aunt Virginia learned to make a dish called “Noodles and Nuts.” I tried the topping on carrots and parsnips instead of noodles and haven’t looked back. —Terri Collins, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Skillet Chicken with Olives
Nutrition Facts1 serving (calculated without capers): 237 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 571mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat.
While I was visiting my cousin Lilliana in Italy, she made this heavenly chicken for lunch. Now it’s a family favorite stateside, too. —Rosemarie Pisano, Revere, Massachusetts
Olive Oil Mashed Potatoes with Pancetta
Nutrition Facts2/3 cup: 206 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 313mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
Classic American mashed potatoes take a trip to Italy with the flavors of olive oil, garlic, and pancetta. —Bryan Kennedy, Kaneohe, Hawaii
Chocolate Pistachio Biscotti
Nutrition Facts1 each: 107 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 48mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
Chocolate, pistachios and cranberries make a dramatic, delicious trio. Introducing the cranberries to this recipe added tartness, texture and color, too. —Gilda Lester, Millsboro, Delaware
Florence-Inspired Souffle
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 223 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 843mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
This souffle is not only absolutely delicious, but light and beautiful. Your guests will be impressed every time this brunch dish is served. So grab your fork and dig into this little taste of Florence! —Jenny Flake, Newport Beach, California
Italian Chicken Soup
Nutrition Facts1-1/2 cups: 279 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 829mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable.
This satisfying soup gets its Italian flair from fennel, thyme, basil and orzo pasta. If you don’t start with a low-sodium or sodium-free stock, you might want to decrease the amount of salt called for in the recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Spinach and Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Nutrition Facts1-1/2 cups: 235 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 727mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
This 20-minute dish is spicy, garlicky, saucy, and loaded with delicious shrimp. Plus, with the addition of spinach you’re also getting a serving of veggies. When you need a perfect low-fat weeknight meal that is quick to pull together, this is it. You can substitute arugula or kale for the spinach if you’d like. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Italian Beef Vegetable Soup
Nutrition Facts1 cup: 127 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 617mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 lean meat.
This hearty vegetable beef soup features a ton of fresh vegetables, making it the perfect dish to use up all that summer produce. It’s also great during cooler weather! Make sure you serve this Italian soup with some breadsticks, rolls or flaky biscuits. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Italian Turkey Meatballs
Nutrition Facts3 meatballs with 2/3 cup sauce: 239 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 85mg cholesterol, 588mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch.
What’s not to love about moist and tender homemade Italian meatballs? Because they’re made with lean turkey, they’re lower in saturated fat, too! —Mary Berg, Lake Elmo, Minnesota
Italian Sausage Veggie Skillet
Nutrition Facts1-1/3 cups: 251 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 417mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch.
We love Italian sausage sandwiches, but because the bread isn’t diet-friendly for me, I created this recipe to satisfy my craving. If you like some heat, use hot peppers in place of the sweet peppers. —Tina Howells, Salem, Ohio
Arrabbiata Sauce with Zucchini Noodles
Nutrition Facts1 cup sauce with 1 cup zucchini noodles: 287 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 708mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 4g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
This popular Italian dish is very spicy and full of flavor. We decided to re-create one of our favorite jarred sauces and serve over zucchini pasta for a lighter, healthier meal that’s naturally gluten-free. The results were amazing! —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Spicy Sweet Potato Kale Cannellini Soup
Nutrition Facts1 cup: 250 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 615mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 7g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
This cross between a soup and a stew fits the meatless Monday bill quite nicely. It warms you right up, and satisfies without leaving you overstuffed. —Marybeth Mank, Mesquite, Texas
3/4 cup: 82 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 318mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
My sister and I created this fresh salad at one of our “recipe nights” and it’s been a hit at every party since! Try red pepper flakes for a little kick if you’d like, or add Greek pepperoncini. —Jennifer Freier, Algonquin, Illinois
Sicilian Potato Salad
Nutrition Facts3/4 cup: 96 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
Fresh basil is the star of this mayo-free, Italian-inspired take on potato salad. —Sue Falk, Warren, Michigan
Sausage-Stuffed Butternut Squash
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 325 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 587mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 12g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat.
Load butternut squash shells with an Italian turkey sausage and squash mixture for a quick and easy meal. Even better, it’s surprisingly low in calories. —Katia Slinger, Columbus, Georgia
Pizzaiola Chops
Nutrition Facts1 pork chop and 1 cup vegetable mixture (calculated without rice): 351 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 647mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
My favorite cousin shared this recipe, and I tweaked it for our family. Taste as you go, and try the Italian trick of sprinkling on some oregano to give it that extra something. —Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario
1 appetizer (calculated without marinara sauce): 42 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
My Italian Grandma made these for me. I still request them when I visit her. And so do my children. These can be made ahead of time and frozen. They are also delicous served as a vegetarian main course with a salad.
Mediterranean Turkey Potpies
Nutrition Facts1 potpie: 326 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 699mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
Your clan will love these wonderful, stick-to-the-ribs potpies with a Mediterranean twist. I always use the leftovers from our big holiday turkey to prepare this recipe. I think my family enjoys the potpies more than the original feast! —Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, Michigan
Pear & Turkey Sausage Rigatoni
Nutrition Facts1-1/3 cups (calculated without almonds): 273 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 333mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 2 medium-fat meat.
The sweet pear, salty sausage and creamy blue cheese are a wonderful combination in this dish. It tastes just like something you’d get at a great restaurant. —Debby Harden, Williamston, Michigan
Great-Grandma's Italian Meatballs
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 271 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 125mg cholesterol, 569mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
My great-grandmother started this easy meatball recipe with our family. We use ground beef and turkey for these meatballs, and the flavor’s so good, you won’t miss the extra calories. —Audrey Colantino, Winchester, Massachusetts
Tuscan Chicken and Beans
Nutrition Facts1 cup: 216 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 517mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
Rosemary and beans make a nice rustic Italian meal in this flavorful dish. —Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, Michigan
Turkey Cutlets in Lemon Wine Sauce
Nutrition Facts1 turkey cutlet with 2 tablespoons sauce: 145 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 110mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
After I ate something like this at a local Italian restaurant, I figured out how to make it at home for my family. Now I serve it a lot since it’s so quick to make—and they’re so happy I do. —Kathie Wilson, Warrenton, Virginia
Sausage Orecchiette Pasta
Nutrition Facts1-2/3 cups: 363 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 571mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable.
I adapted this pasta to be like my favorite Italian restaurant version, only lighter—and tastier. I often use spicy sausage and broccoli rabe. —Melanie Tritten, Charlotte, North Carolina
Grapefruit Gremolata Salmon
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 332 calories, 16g fat (3g saturated fat), 85mg cholesterol, 387mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 starch.
If you’re looking for a simple fish dish, make this Italian-inspired recipe that combines salmon, broiled grapefruit and a fragrant gremolata. Halibut may be substituted for the salmon. —Gilda Lester, Millsboro, Delaware
Hearty Meatless Minestrone
Nutrition Facts1-1/2 cups: 191 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 664mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 vegetable, 1 starch, 1 fat.
A friend gave me this quick, healthy recipe, and it’s oh-so-tasty. It makes a big batch and is great for leftovers. To enhance the flavor, add a pound or two of sweet Italian sausage. —Mickey Turner, Grants Pass, Oregon
Chocolate Amaretti
Nutrition Facts1 cookie: 92 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
With a hint of almond, these chewy treats are similar to those sold in Italian bakeries. My husband and children are always excited when I include these in my holiday baking lineup. —Kathy Long, Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin
1 cup: 258 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 783mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
Every Italian-American family I know seems to have its own version of meatball soup. This recipe is based on my family’s version. —Christie Ladd, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
Tilapia with Jasmine Rice
Nutrition Facts1 fillet with 3/4 cup rice: 412 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 90mg cholesterol, 615mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 3 starch, 1/2 fat.
This tender, full-flavored tilapia with fragrant jasmine rice is absolutely to die for. And it gets better—each serving has only 5 grams of fat! —Shirl Parsons, Cape Carteret, North Carolina
Simple Italian Salad
Nutrition Facts1-1/2 cups: 120 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 943mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 6g protein.
Homemade croutons star in this easy Italian salad, filled with grape tomatoes, olives and pepperoncinis. “I like to serve it with fresh Italian or focaccia bread,” Nancy Granaman suggests from Burlington, Iowa.
Italian Shrimp 'n' Pasta
Nutrition Facts1-1/2 cups: 418 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 165mg cholesterol, 611mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
This dish will remind you a bit of classic shrimp Creole, but it has a surprise Italian twist. Slow cooking gives it hands-off ease—perfect for company. —Karen Edwards, Sanford, Maine
Feta Tomato-Basil Fish
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 241 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 660mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
I rely on my husband for the main ingredient in this fuss-free dish. He fills our freezer after his summer fishing trip. —Alicia Szeszol, Lindenhurst, Illinois
Eggplant Fries
Nutrition Facts1 serving: 135 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 577mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 medium-fat meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
My kids love this snack—and I like that it’s healthy. Coated with Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese and garlic salt, these veggie sticks are broiled, not fried, so there’s no guilt when you crunch into them. —Mary Murphy, Atwater, California
Originally Published: May 03, 2022
