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Healthy Recipes, Nutrition · May 22, 2025

24 Simple and Healthy Meals For Diabetics: Easy to Make Recipe Ideas 

This post highlights a variety of meals for diabetics that are not only delicious but also perfect for managing blood sugar levels. 

We all know adults, or perhaps ourselves, who are living with diabetes and could use some suggestions for meals for diabetics. 

Indeed, finding a fulfilling and low-carb recipe can be a challenge. 

But you have landed on the right page!

I will be sharing some tasty recipes and meal ideas for diabetics to try. 

These will include all of the necessary ingredients that can help you create delicious and satisfying meals in no time.

24 Delicious Healthy Meals For Diabetics 

The best part is that all of these recipes mainly focus on promoting stable sugar levels. 

And also to ensure that your meals are both nutritious and flavorful.

Salad Recipes

1. Apple Walnut Salad

Source

Nuts and fruits are fantastic for people with diabetes as they provide all-natural sources of essential nutrients. 

Even research suggests that having walnuts can improve blood sugar levels. 

That’s why I am excited to include this delicious walnut apple salad in my list. 

  • Main Ingredients: Apple, Walnuts, Arugula, Raisins
  • Additional Benefits: Vegan, Heart-friendly
  • Prep Time: 28 minutes

2. Mediterranean Low-Carb Broccoli Salad

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This salad is a mix of some green veggies and tomatoes, foods considered best for diabetics. 

The recipe I mentioned here is simple and vegan, but if you would like to boost the protein content, feel free to add some chicken or tofu! 

  • Main Ingredients: Broccoli, Artichoke, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Greek Yogurt, Sunflower Seeds. 
  • Additional Benefits: Vegan, Low-Carb, High Fiber. 
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

3. Sweet Potato, Kale & Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing

Source

The next recipe on my list is this salad with veggies. 

It combines boiled sweet potatoes, kale, and chicken, all drizzled with a creamy peanut dressing. 

It’s nutritious and perfect for diabetics, complementing any lunch or dinner!

  • Main Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, Kale leaves, Chicken breast, Olive oil, Unsalted Peanuts
  • Additional Benefits: Low-sodium, High Fiber, Egg-free, Gluten-free
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes

With Chicken and Turkey

4. Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon

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This chicken and spinach recipe uses virgin olive oil, a type of monounsaturated fat shown to improve blood sugar levels in the body. 

Another thing I like about this recipe is that it is incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients.

  • Main Ingredients: Penne pasta, Olive oil, Boneless Chicken, Spinach, Parmesan Cheese, Lemon Zest
  • Additional Benefits: Soy-free, Nut-free, High-Protein
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

5. Low-fat Chicken Tikka Masala

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This is a South Asian dish and a low-fat version of the original recipe. 

To make it, the recipe here uses boneless and skinless chicken breast. 

It also substituted Greek yogurt for cream and used less oil during cooking.

  • Main Ingredients: Chicken Boneless, Garlic, Yogurt, Tikka spice, Tomatoes
  • Additional Benefits: High-Protein, Egg-free, Low-fat
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes

6. Roast Chicken & Sweet Potato

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The sweet potato and chicken combo is perfect for anyone seeking healthy meals for diabetics. 

The best is to use boiled or steamed potatoes, especially in moderation, as per serving size. 

This recipe highlights that approach beautifully, so give it a try!

  • Main Ingredients: Chicken thighs, Sweet potatoes, Red Onion, Dijon mustard, Thyme 
  • Additional Benefits: Low-sodium, Healthy Immunity, Heart-Healthy
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes

7. Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

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What could be better than a warm bowl of soup? 

And if you make it in a slow cooker or Crock-Pot with chicken and noodles, it is even more perfect. 

While the recipe I have mentioned uses egg noodles, much research has suggested switching to shirataki noodles. These noodles are high in fiber and significantly reduce blood sugar levels and cholesterol. 

  • Main Ingredients: Egg Noodles, Chicken breast, Onion, Carrots, Parsley
  • Additional Benefits: Healthy immunity, Gluten-free, Nut-free
  • Prep Time: 2 hours

8. Quinoa and Turkey Meatballs 

Source

Research suggests using quinoa more in meals for diabetics is healthy, as it reduces blood sugar levels. 

Additionally, turkey is a great low-carb option that is high in protein.

Combining these ingredients creates a quick and easy dish that makes for a healthy meal! 

  • Main Ingredients: Quinoa, Ground Turkey, Spinach, Feta Cheese, Tomatoes
  • Additional Benefits: Low-carb, High-fiber, High-protein, Immunity booster
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes

Snack Ideas

9. Stuffed Bell Peppers

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We have mostly seen recipes of stuffed bell peppers with rice filling. 

But this recipe is rice-free, making it special for anyone watching their carb intake. 

Just mix the cooked meat and veggies in the recipe and bake it for a few minutes until the cheese melts, and enjoy the snack! 

  • Main Ingredients:  Bell peppers, Ground meat, Cabbage, Onion, Cheese
  • Additional Benefits: 
  • Prep Time:  30 minutes

10. Spinach and Mushroom Frittata

Source

Eggs are an excellent choice for diabetics, supported by numerous research studies highlighting their benefits. 

That’s why I am sharing this delicious spinach and mushroom frittata recipe. 

The recipe is super yummy and can be enjoyed anytime, whether for a meal, breakfast, or as a snack!

  • Main Ingredients: Spinach, Mushroom, Eggs, Milk, Cheese, Olive Oil, Seasonings.
  • Additional Benefits: Vegan, High-Protein
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes

11. Tortilla Pie

Source

If you are looking for a snack that’s both healthy and delicious, this tortilla pie recipe is perfect for you.

Using ricotta cheese makes it healthier for anyone, especially diabetics. 

Plus, this pie can be conveniently stored in the freezer.

Just wrap a single slice in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag.

Reheat when you are ready to enjoy!

  • Main Ingredients: Ground beef, Ricotta Cheese, Onion, Garlic, Whole Wheat Tortillas
  • Additional Benefits: High calcium, Low-Sodium, Low-calorie
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes

12. Yogurt with Mixed Berries Recipe

Source

While berries are very sweet, they are a beneficial food choice for people with diabetes. 

They are also well-researched to be rich in fiber and antioxidants and have a low glycemic index, meaning they don’t spike your sugar that much. 

So mixing with Greek yogurt is a super healthy meal for diabetics. 

  • Main Ingredients: Greek Yogurt, Mixed berries, Granola, Flax seeds
  • Additional Benefits: Low-carb, Vegan, 
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

Vegan Options

13. Lentil and Brown Rice Pilaf

Source 

This vegan recipe can be the best option among meals for diabetics. 

It is because both lentils and brown rice are low-glycemic foods, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. 

You can even add more fiber and taste to it by adding some veggies. 

  • Main Ingredients: Lentils, Brown rice, Chicken broth, Seasonings
  • Additional Benefits: Vegan, High Fiber, Low-Fat, Dairy-Free
  • Prep Time: 55 minutes

14. Cheddar Cheese and Broccoli Soup

Source

Broccoli is a perfect low-carb food with numerous benefits, and using it for meals for diabetics is super smart. 

So, here I have selected a recipe for cheddar and broccoli soup, a creamy way to savour the goodness of broccoli. 

The best part is that the soup is free from any starchy thickeners and is more of a conscious carb meal. 

  • Main Ingredients: Unsalted butter, Almond milk, Vegetable broth, Broccoli, Carrot, Cheddar cheese
  • Additional Benefits: Better Immunity, Low-Carb
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes

15. Savoury Cauliflower Rice

Source

In my opinion, using cauliflower as a substitute for rice is super healthy and great. 

It is because regular rice has a high glycemic index, which is not ideal for diabetics. 

So by using cauliflower and eggs, you can easily mimic the texture of rice while enjoying an even better flavor!

You can always opt for chicken or tofu to add some protein. 

  • Main Ingredients: Minced cauliflower, Eggs, Soy sauce, 
  • Additional Benefits: 
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

16. Easy Pea & Spinach Carbonara

Source

Pasta and spinach are a heavenly combo for sure. 

And this is what this quick, easy recipe delivers: a unique taste with all the best diabetic-friendly foods you need. 

  • Main Ingredients: Parmesan cheese, Egg yolks, Linguine pasta, Baby spinach, Peas
  • Additional Benefits: High-Calcium, Healthy Immunity, Low-Sodium, Heart-healthy, High-Fibre
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

17. Low-Carb Zucchini Lasagna

meals for diabetics
Source

The next on the list is my top favorite choice for meals for diabetics. 

This recipe uses zucchini slice roll-ups instead of basic pasta. 

Filled with cheese and topped with sauce, it will surely satisfy your cravings too. 

  • Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Ricotta cheese, Mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, Marinara sauce
  • Additional Benefits: Vegan, Nut-free
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

18. Eat-the-Rainbow Vegetable Soup

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As its name suggests, this recipe features a vibrant mix of colorful veggies in a soup that can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

For meal prep, add sauce in airtight containers, then beans and other veggies. 

And when you’re ready to enjoy it, add vegetable broth and microwave for a few minutes. Voilà!

  • Main Ingredients: Lima beans, Carrots, Tomatoes, Bell peppers, Spinach, Vegetable broth 
  • Additional Benefits: Gut Healthy, Anti-Inflammatory, Mediterranean Diet, High-Fibre Heart-Healthy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes 

Sweet Recipes

19. Blueberry-Lemon Energy Balls

Source

This quick, no-bake dessert option with only a few ingredients and is also super kid-friendly. 

The recipe uses basic ingredients, but you can add seeds of your choice to it. 

And you can store it for a few days in the fridge. 

  • Main Ingredients: Blueberries, Medjool dates, Lemon juice, Cashews, Rolled oats
  • Additional Benefits: Vegetarian, Soy-free, Gluten-free
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

20. Lemon Raspberry Chia Seed Pudding

Source 

Chia seeds have been studied as a great food option for diabetics and help maintain blood sugar levels. 

This easy recipe incorporates them into a delightful dessert!

Mix all the ingredients, top it off with some raspberries, and you are ready! 

  • Main Ingredients: Chia seeds, Unsweetened almond milk, Lemon zest, Raspberries, Honey
  • Additional Benefits: Vegan, Low-sodium, Gluten-free
  • Prep Time: 1 hour

21. Baked Apple Chips

Source

Baked apple chips are an all-natural dessert option with the perfect taste and crunch. 

Just cut thin slices and pop them in the oven until they are crisp and dry. 

Then store them in a clean, airtight jar and enjoy! 

  • Main Ingredients: Apples, Cinnamon
  • Additional Benefits: 
  • Prep Time: 3 hours 

Fish Recipes

22. Jewelled Quinoa with Salmon

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Fatty fish like salmon are excellent for those with type 1 and 2 diabetes, helping to maintain blood sugar levels, support body weight, and reduce heart disease risk. 

This recipe pairs salmon with quinoa, rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

And it is quick and easy to make too! 

  • Main Ingredients: Quinoa, Salmon fillets, Tomatoes, Onion, Olive oil
  • Additional Benefits: Heart-healthy, High-fiber, Omega-3 rich
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

23. with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Source

This recipe features a saucier twist on salmon! 

Start by baking the salmon until tender, then mix it with a flavorful gravy. 

Serve it over wholesome brown rice for a nutritious and satisfying meal

  • Main Ingredients: Salmon, Sundried tomatoes, Vegetable broth, Cream, Brown rice
  • Additional Benefits: Soy-Free, High-Protein, Egg-Free, Gluten-Free, Omega-3 rich
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

24. Lemon-Garlic Baked Cod

Source

Lemon garlic cod is an easy, healthy recipe for diabetics. 

Moist from the inside with a buttery and garlicky crust that will make anyone a fish lover. 

Here is the recipe

  • Main Ingredients: Cod fillets, Unsalted butter, Lemon juice, Parsley
  • Additional Benefits: Low-carb, Gluten-free, Omega-3 rich 
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

This Is All For The Best Meals For Diabetics

Now that I have shared the best recipes to make meals for diabetics, it is your turn to give these healthy recipes a try! 

Also, share this blog with someone who could benefit from it. 

I would love to hear your thoughts, so don’t forget to drop your comments in the section below! 

You May Also Like 

  • 23 Quick & Easy Heart Healthy Meals And Ideas to Support Your Clean Eating Goals
  • List of 25 High Fiber Foods to Eat or Include In Your Meals for Constipation

References

  1.  Kim, Yoona, et al. “Benefits of Nut Consumption on Insulin Resistance and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Multiple Potential Mechanisms of Actions.” Nutrients, vol. 9, no. 11, Nov. 2017, p. 1271. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9111271.
  2. Non-starchy Vegetables | ADA. diabetes.org/food-nutrition/reading-food-labels/non-starchy-vegetables.
  3. Schwingshackl, Lukas, and Georg Hoffmann. “Monounsaturated Fatty Acids, Olive Oil and Health Status: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Cohort Studies.” Lipids in Health and Disease, vol. 13, no. 1, Oct. 2014, https://doi.org/10.1186/1476-511x-13-154.
  4. Mirzababaei, Atieh, et al. “The Effect of Glucomannan on Fasting and Postprandial Blood Glucose in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders, vol. 21, no. 1, Feb. 2022, pp. 1055–63. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40200-022-00993-6.
  5. Ng, Chong Yi, and Mingfu Wang. “The Functional Ingredients of Quinoa (Chenopodium Quinoa) and Physiological Effects of Consuming Quinoa: A Review.” Food Frontiers, vol. 2, no. 3, Aug. 2021, pp. 329–56. https://doi.org/10.1002/fft2.109.
  6. Maki, Kevin C., et al. “Effects of Substituting Eggs for High-carbohydrate Breakfast Foods on the Cardiometabolic Risk-factor Profile in Adults at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.” European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vol. 74, no. 5, Mar. 2020, pp. 784–95. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41430-020-0599-2.
  7. What Superstar Foods Are Good for Diabetes? | ADA. diabetes.org/food-nutrition/food-and-blood-sugar/diabetes-superstar-foods#:~:text=Berries,sweet%20tooth%20without%20added%20sugar.
  8. —. “Rice: Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL) Complete Overview.” Glycemic Index Guide, 20 Apr. 2023, glycemic-index.net/glycemic-index-of-rice.
  9. Vuksan, V., et al. “Salba-chia (Salvia Hispanica L.) in the Treatment of Overweight and Obese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Double-blind Randomized Controlled Trial.” Nutrition Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, vol. 27, no. 2, Dec. 2016, pp. 138–46. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.numecd.2016.11.124.
  10. Mendivil, Carlos O. “Fish Consumption: A Review of Its Effects on Metabolic and Hormonal Health.” Nutrition and Metabolic Insights, vol. 14, Jan. 2021, https://doi.org/10.1177/11786388211022378.

Posted By: Dr. Aimen Sohail · In: Healthy Recipes, Nutrition

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