Colette's Blog

Sizzlin’ Summer Eats: Low Carb Recipes for Cookouts and Campfires

Colette-Heimowitz

Written by Colette Heimowitz, M.Sc. on July 6, 2023.

Scientifically reviewed by

Jonathan Clinthorne, PhD Human Nutrition

July 6, 2023

12 tips for perfect low carb foil packet recipes.

Make the most of summer days and nights with foil packet recipes, perfect for cooking over the outdoor grill or campfire. They are easy, no-mess options for your main course, plus we have dessert.

12 Tips for Perfect Low Carb Foil Packet Recipes

Foil packet recipes can be prepped ahead, and the options are endless. You can add your choice of veggies, meat, poultry or fish and herbs and spices and you’re good to go. Here’s how to make your foil packet recipe a success:

  • Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to ensure the packets are sturdy and won’t tear.
  • Cut vegetables and meats into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.
  • Pump up the flavor by seasoning your ingredients with salt, pepper, herbs and spices.
  • Add a small amount of liquid, such as broth, wine or lemon juice to help create steam within the packet and keep everything moist.
  • Don’t overstuff the packets so there’s room for heat circulation and even cooking.
  • Seal the packets tightly by folding the edges multiple times to avoid leaking.
  • Prevent burning by cooking the packets over medium heat. This will also allow the ingredients to thoroughly cook.
  • Rotate the packets occasionally to prevent hot spots from the grill or campfire.
  • Use long-handled tongs or a spatula to handle the foil packets so you don’t get burned.
  • When checking if your packets are done, carefully open the packet so the steam doesn’t burn you. If you’re cooking meat, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
  • Let the packets rest for a few minutes when done cooking so the flavors can meld.

Low Carb Apple Crisp Foil Packet Recipe

You’ll want to save room for dessert with foil packet recipe, which features chayote squash and Granny Smith apples, a squeeze of lemon juice, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spices, plus some crunch from dried coconut and almonds.

Colette-Heimowitz

Author

Colette Heimowitz, M.Sc.

Vice President of Nutrition & Education

Colette Heimowitz, M.Sc. is a former Director of Nutrition at The Atkins Center for Complementary Medicine in New York City. With 20+ years of experience as a nutrition expert, the NY Times best-selling author is the current Vice President of Nutrition & Education at Simply Good Foods Company.

More From Colette

What is Your Weight Wellness Strategy?

Weight wellness is a multifaceted strategy that moves beyond the traditional focus on weight loss to encompass a more holistic approach that involves nutrition, exercise, sleep and lifestyle interventions to keep your body weight at a level that allows you to live an active, happy, productive life. To achieve weight wellness, you must be metabolically

Read More »

A Day in the Life: Atkins 40

A day of satisfying, low carb deliciousness. What’s in Atkins 40 One-Day Meal Plan? If you have less than 40 pounds to lose, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or want to eat a wider variety of food, Atkins 40 is the plan for you. This Mediterranean-inspired one-day plan contains Vitamins C, E, B6 and B12, riboflavin,

Read More »

Low Carb, High Flavor: Mastering the Spice Rack

Spices and herbs are the secret weapons in your culinary arsenal, especially when it comes to low carb cooking. We go beyond the basics with these tips for bringing out the best in your spice rack and herb garden and transforming your low carb meals from mundane to mouthwatering. Get to Know Your Spices and

Read More »