If you're on a low-carb diet, you've got the main dishes down pat. All seafood, beef, pork, and poultry are practically carb free. But you might be wondering what to eat with all that meat. How can you still get the necessary nutrients and fiber into your diet without "blowing it"? Try these tasty, simple recipes for low-carb sides:

Grilled zucchini: Wash zucchini and cut lengthwise into 1/3-inch planks. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt. Grill on medium grill until brown. Turn and cook other side. These are also quick and easy on a George Foreman grill!

Broiled tomatoes: Wash medium-large tomatoes and half crosswise. Top each half with a slice of provolone cheese and sprinkle with fresh or dried basil. Broil in the oven until cheese melts.

Broccoli casserole: Cook a package of frozen broccoli florets until soft. Drain and layer in a 13 x 9-inch pyrex dish. Mix together one cup mayonnaise and one cup grated cheddar cheese and spoon over broccoli. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes.

Creamed cauliflower: This is a great substitute for mashed potatoes. Steam or boil fresh or frozen cauliflower until tender, then mash with a fork or potato masher. Add a little milk or cream and butter, salt, and pepper.

Fried cabbage: In a large frying pan, cook 4 slices bacon until almost done. Remove and cut into one-inch pieces. Saute one chopped onion in drippings until almost done, then remove. Drain pan, leaving two tablespoons drippings. Return bacon and onions to pan, along with cut fresh cabbage. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover pan and cook until cabbage is done, stirring frequently.

Italian medly: Saute strips of bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and yellow squash until almost done. Top with tomato wedges or cherry tomato halves. Season with garlic, salt, oregano, and basil. Melt grated mozzarella on top for a colorful, healthy side dish.

Tarragon-lemon asparagus: Wash 2 pounds of fresh asparagus and remove woody ends. Place in a 13 x 9 pyrex dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Drizzle three tablespoons cooking oil over spears and top with fresh or dried tarragon, white pepper, salt, and lemon juice to taste. Bake at 450 for 15 minutes, or longer if you prefer the asparagus to be soft.

Read more about healthy cooking and healthy meals by clicking on the article links below.