With gestational diabetes, it’s easy to feel like skipping a party or postponing party planning altogether—it can feel overwhelming and stressful with all the food choices around you. But it doesn’t have to be that way! If you’re organizing a party, there’s a mountain of delicious and appealing food ideas that are perfect for you and your guests. Make them! If you're attending a party, bring along some of these treats—both the hosts and guests will appreciate your thoughtful effort, and you’ll enjoy the celebration without the stress.
From savory snacks to sweet treats, this list of 54 food ideas will make any other celebration both satisfying and GD-friendly. To help you plan, we’ve also included practical tips for managing GD during festive gatherings, so you can enjoy the festivities while keeping your blood sugar levels in check. Whether you're hosting or attending, these tasty options will ensure you feel your best while celebrating!
1. Low-Carb Veggie Platter with full-fat ranch or hummus dip.
Choose a variety of crunchy veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, and carrots for a refreshing and satisfying option.
2. Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers with cream cheese and everything bagel seasoning.
These are great bite-sized snacks that are both flavorful and low in carbs.
3. Deviled Eggs with a holiday twist (add crushed toasted walnuts and buttery fried onions – “This is one of my favorite seasonal bites, with GD or without,” says Julija, Higedi’s founder), or stick with classic deviled eggs because they’re always delicious!
Customize them with toppings like avocado, bacon, or fresh herbs for another fun twist.
4. Avocado Deviled Eggs with a creamy guacamole filling.
Swap out some of the mayo for mashed avocado for a healthier, creamy version of classic deviled eggs.
5. Cheese and Charcuterie Board with nuts and pickles.
To avoid listeria, choose hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or parmesan, and ensure the deli meats are freshly sliced and stored properly. Avoid soft cheeses and pre-packaged deli meats, or heat the deli meats before using to reduce the risk of contamination.
6. Meatballs in a no-sugar-added marinara sauce or creamy mushroom gravy.
Use lean ground meat and bake the meatballs to avoid extra oil. Opt for homemade sauce or gravy to keep sugar content low.
7. Caprese Skewers with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
Drizzle with a touch of balsamic vinegar or olive oil for an extra burst of flavor.
8. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus, baked until crispy and golden.
Perfect as a savory bite with a smoky flavor that everyone will enjoy.
9. Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms baked to perfection.
Stuff with a mix of sautéed spinach and your favorite cheeses for a savory, melt-in-your-mouth treat.
10. Mini Quiches made with almond flour crust or crustless.
These can be filled with any combination of veggies, meats, or cheeses for a versatile option.
11. Zucchini Fritters paired with a garlic yogurt dip.
Make these crispy fritters with almond flour to keep them low-carb, and serve with a cooling, tangy dip.
12. Chicken Satay Skewers with a low-carb peanut sauce.
Grilled chicken skewers are perfect for dipping in a sugar-free peanut sauce made with natural peanut butter, soy sauce, and spices.
13. Baked Wings (dry rub or sugar-free BBQ sauce).
Use a dry rub or homemade sugar-free BBQ sauce to keep the flavor bold without the added sugars.
14. Low-Carb Sliders using lettuce wraps or low-carb buns.
Perfect for a bite-sized meal, use ground beef or turkey and top with cheese, pickles, and a sugar-free sauce.
15. Shrimp Cocktail with sugar-free cocktail sauce.
To make the sauce, mix 1/2 cup of sugar-free ketchup with 1 tablespoon of horseradish, a few dashes of hot sauce (optional), and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
16. Salmon Cucumber Bites with cream cheese.
Top crisp cucumber slices with cooked salmon and cream cheese, and decorate with some fresh dill.
17. Cauliflower Bites as a crispy, dippable treat.
Toss cauliflower florets in buffalo sauce and bake until crispy. Serve with ranch dip for a flavorful snack.
18. Pork Rinds or low-carb chips with guacamole or salsa.
A crunchy alternative to traditional chips, pair with your favorite low-carb dip.
19. Cheddar Cheese Crisps as a crunchy alternative to crackers.
Bake thin slices of cheddar cheese until crispy.
20. Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups for an easy grab-and-go snack.
Simply roll up slices of turkey and cheese for a protein-packed, low-carb snack.
21. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers with a cream cheese filling.
Baked until crispy and golden. These spicy, cheesy bites are great for adding a little heat to your spread.
22. Stuffed Mushrooms with a mix of cheeses and herbs.
Stuff large mushroom caps with a cheesy filling of your choice, such as cream cheese, parmesan, and garlic.
23. Mini Taco Cups made with low-carb tortillas and seasoned meat.
Use low-carb tortillas to make mini taco cups and fill them with seasoned ground beef or turkey, grated cheese, pico de gallo, and avocado.
24. Mini Lettuce Wraps with ground turkey or chicken filling.
Wrap a tasty, seasoned ground meat filling in large lettuce leaves, and serve with a low-carb dip.
25. Cauliflower Bites with buffalo or garlic parmesan seasoning.
Coat cauliflower florets in your favorite seasoning, bake until crispy, and serve with a side of ranch dip.
26. Spiced Nuts roasted with your favorite seasoning.
For a sweet snack, roast mixed nuts with a sprinkle of cinnamon and stevia, or go savory by adding paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
27. Mediterranean Board with olives, feta, veggies, and tzatziki dip.
Create a colorful board with olives, feta cheese, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a side of homemade tzatziki sauce.
28. Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breast stuffed with apples and blue cheese.
Wrap chicken breasts with crispy bacon and stuff with a mix of sweet apples and tangy blue cheese for a savory-sweet combination.
29. Cauliflower Pizza Bites with various low-carb toppings.
Make bite-sized pizzas using cauliflower crust and top with your favorite low-carb ingredients like cheese, veggies, or lean meats.
30. Zucchini Noodles with pesto and grilled shrimp.
Light and flavorful, toss zucchini noodles with a homemade pesto sauce and top with grilled shrimp for a fresh, satisfying dish.
31. Lettuce-Wrapped Tacos with ground turkey or beef.
Use large lettuce leaves as wraps and fill them with seasoned ground turkey or beef for a low-carb, crunchy alternative to traditional tacos.
32. Low-Carb Lasagna made with zucchini or eggplant layers.
Swap out pasta for zucchini or eggplant slices in this keto-friendly lasagna packed with rich meat sauce and melted cheese.
33. Stuffed Eggplant Boats with meat, cheese, and marinara.
Hollow out eggplants and stuff with a savory mix of ground meat, cheese, and marinara for a hearty, low-carb meal.
34. Grilled or Baked Salmon with a side of roasted veggies.
Perfectly grilled salmon served alongside roasted veggies like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, asparagus, and broccoli for a nutritious, satisfying meal.
35. Keto-Friendly Chili served in small bowls.
A warming, hearty chili made with ground meat, tomatoes, and spices—serve it in small bowls over cauliflower rice or quinoa.
36. Low-Carb Chicken Alfredo with zucchini noodles or protein pasta.
Swap traditional pasta for zucchini noodles or protein pasta and top with a creamy, homemade alfredo sauce and tender grilled chicken. Add broccoli for fiber!
37. Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps with sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Slow-cooked pulled pork wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves and drizzled with homemade, sugar-free BBQ sauce.
38. Chicken Skewers marinated and grilled with veggies.
Marinate chicken pieces in a flavorful mix of herbs and spices, then skewer and grill with your favorite veggies. Serve with a dipping sauce, such as a garlicky Greek yogurt-based sauce or sugar-free marinara.
39. Avocado Chocolate Mousse blended with cocoa powder and low-carb sweetener.
Blend 1 ripe avocado, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, 1-2 tbsp low-carb sweetener (optional), and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Chill before serving.
40. Sugar-Free Panna Cotta with berries for garnish.
Heat 1 cup heavy cream with 1 tsp vanilla extract and a low-carb sweetener to taste. Stir in 1 packet gelatin, dissolve, and pour into cups. Chill until set and garnish with fresh berries.
41. Almond Flour Biscotti with holiday spice blend.
Mix 1 cup almond flour (+1-2 tbsp if the texture feels too soft), ¼ cup chopped almonds, ½ tsp baking powder, 1 tsp winter spice mix, ½ tsp vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, ¼ cup low-carb sweetener, 1 large egg, and 1 tbsp melted butter. Shape into a log, bake at 325°F for 20-25 minutes, slice, and bake again until crispy.
42. Tahini Almond Cookies for a nutty, low-carb option.
Mix ½ cup tahini, ¼ cup almond flour, 1 large egg, 3 tbsp sweetener, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp cinnamon. Scoop into balls, top with almonds, and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
43. Cheesecake Bites with a hint of cardamom.
Blend 8 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup low-carb sweetener, 1 egg, and 1/2 tsp cardamom. Pour into mini muffin cups and bake at 325°F for 15-18 minutes.
44. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries using dark or sugar-free chocolate.
Melt dark or sugar-free chocolate. Dip strawberries into the chocolate and let set on parchment paper until firm.
45. Thumbprint Cookies
Mash ½ ripe banana and mix with ¼ cup peanut butter, ½ cup almond meal, ⅓ tsp baking powder, and ⅓ tsp winter spice blend. Roll into balls, press a thumbprint in the center, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Once cooled, fill the thumbprint with peanut butter or a mix of peanut butter and melted dark chocolate.
46. Chia Pudding with berries.
Use unsweetened almond milk or unsweetened coconut milk, and stir in your favorite nut butter. Let sit in the fridge overnight, then top with fresh berries.
47. Mini Fruit Cups with berries and whipped cream.
Fill small cups with fresh berries, then top with whipped cream or whipped coconut cream.
48. Sugar-Free Gelatin with a dollop of whipped cream.
Prepare sugar-free gelatin according to package directions, chill until set, and top with whipped cream or whipped coconut cream.
49. Layered Dessert with crushed toasted nuts, whipped Greek yogurt, and nut butter.
Layer crushed toasted nuts (like almonds or pecans) with whipped Greek yogurt mixed with a spoonful of nut butter (like almond or peanut butter) for a creamy, satisfying dessert. Sweeten with a little low-carb sweetener to taste and serve in small cups.
50. Homemade Chocolate Bark with nuts and seeds.
Melt 4 oz dark chocolate, then stir in 1/4 cup mixed nuts and seeds. Spread on a baking sheet and refrigerate until firm, then break into pieces.
51. Pumpkin Spice Muffins made with cottage cheese and almond flour (or check out another favorite muffin recipe from our low-carb muffin post).
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine 1 cup cottage cheese, 2 large eggs, ½ cup pumpkin puree, 2 tbsp sweetener, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup almond flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1.5 tsp pumpkin pie spice, ½ tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth. Spoon the batter into muffin tins and top with ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
52. Berry Skewers with Whipped Cream
Thread fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries onto skewers. Serve with whipped coconut cream.
53. Chocolate Dipped Almonds
Melt sugar-free dark chocolate, then dip roasted almonds into the chocolate. Let set on parchment paper until firm for a crunchy, indulgent treat.
54. Baked Apples halved, filled with nut butter, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of sweetener.
Cut apples in half and scoop out the cores. Fill with almond or peanut butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a touch of low-carb sweetener. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until soft. Serve with unsweetened whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
55. Plain Greek Yogurt with Mixed Berries and Slivered Almonds
Combine plain Greek yogurt with mixed berries and slivered almonds for a balanced mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
Plan Ahead
If you're hosting, prepare and portion out your snacks and meals in advance. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed by food choices at the party and ensure everything fits within your GD-friendly guidelines.
Bring Your Own Snacks
If you're attending a party, bring your own GD-friendly options. This way, you’ll always have something safe to eat and can enjoy the party without stress. Plus, your host will likely appreciate the effort!
Watch Portion Sizes
Even with healthier options, portion control is key. Choose smaller portions of the dishes you enjoy and pair them with non-starchy vegetables or proteins to balance your blood sugar.
Focus on Fiber and Protein
When selecting or preparing foods, prioritize high-fiber vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These help slow the absorption of sugars and keep your blood sugar levels stable. Creating a nutritious meal that combines these elements is essential for managing gestational diabetes.
Start with a Balanced Breakfast
Begin your day with a balanced breakfast to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. Opt for breakfast options that combine protein, healthy fats, and low glycemic index carbohydrates to ensure you get a variety of essential nutrients.
Avoid Sugary Beverages
Instead of sugary beverages, opt for sparkling water or herbal tea, or sugar-free lemonade. If you do have a sweet drink, consider adding a few smashed berries and/or a touch of low carb sweetener.
Mind Hidden Sugars
Many store-bought sauces, dips, and dressings can contain hidden sugars. Always check labels and opt for homemade or sugar-free options.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the event. Not only does it help you stay hydrated, but it can also prevent you from confusing thirst with hunger, reducing unnecessary snacking.
Enjoy the Social Aspect
Remember that parties are about the company and experience, not just the food. Focus on socializing, dancing, or participating in games to keep your mind off the food table.
Check Your Blood Sugar
Monitor your blood sugar before and after eating to better understand how different foods affect you. This will help you adjust your choices for future events.
Be Flexible but Mindful
If you decide to indulge in a food that’s not on the GD-friendly list, do so mindfully. Consider the impact it will have on your blood sugar, and balance it out with protein or fiber-rich foods.
What’s the best drink option for a party?
Stick to water, sparkling water with lime, unsweetened herbal tea, or a sugar-free lemonade. Avoid sugary mocktails, sodas, and fruit juices that can spike blood sugar.
Can I eat carbs at a party?
Yes, but choose wisely. Whole food sources like roasted sweet potatoes, hummus, or a small portion of a low-carb tortilla wrap are better than refined carbs like chips or bread rolls.
Can I have dessert at a party with gestational diabetes?
Yes! Opt for low-carb, high-protein desserts like chia pudding, cheesecake bites, or dark chocolate-covered almonds. These will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your blood sugar levels stable.
What are some snack ideas for gestational diabetes that I can bring to a party?
Consider a variety of nutritious snack options that combine carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Some ideas include deviled eggs, mini quiches, cheese and charcuterie boards, and veggie platters with hummus or ranch, Greek yogurt with berries, apple slices with almond butter, a small handful of nuts with a piece of fruit, or whole-grain crackers/whole-grain bread with cheese. These snacks help manage blood sugar levels, satisfy cravings, and meet the nutritional needs of both the mother and baby during pregnancy.
How do I handle high blood sugar after a party?
First, check your blood sugar levels as soon as possible. It's important not to skip meals later to compensate for what you ate at the party, as this can lead to low blood sugar. Instead, stick to your regular eating schedule, stay hydrated, and continue to check your blood glucose levels frequently. Make sure to take your medications as prescribed.
One quick way to help lower your blood sugar is by taking a walk. Even a short 10-15 minute stroll after a meal can make a significant difference. Drinking plenty of water is also key, as it helps flush excess glucose from your system. If you're on insulin or other medications for managing your gestational diabetes, follow your healthcare provider’s guidance for handling high blood sugar.
Gestational diabetes requires some extra thought and effort when it comes to food, but it doesn’t mean you have to skip out on the fun. With these ideas, you can create a party menu that’s both festive and GD-friendly. Remember, the joy of celebrations comes not just from food, but also from the moments shared with loved ones. You’ve got this—enjoy every bite and every smile! Whether you’re hosting or attending, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Happy celebrating!
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