Diabetic Friendly Appetizers

Diabetes either makes us insulin-resistant or simply stops the production of insulin. Consuming foods that are full of carbohydrates requires insulin to be digested by the body, otherwise, this results in increased levels of blood sugar. Thus, real diabetic friendly appetizers should either be without carbohydrates or with less carbohydrates.

Here we have some diabetic friendly appetizers that are delicious but do not contain grains, potatoes, or sugar.

1. Caprese Skewers

A dish invented in Capri, an island in Italy’s Bay of Naples.

Ingredients:

• 20 cherry tomatoes
• 20 fresh basil leaves
• 20 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 20 small wooden skewers

Instructions:

1. On each skewer, thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball.
2. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the skewers.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

2. Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

A dish that originated in many countries, including Spain, Italy, Greece, and Mexico.

Ingredients:

• 15 mini bell peppers
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the mini bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each bell pepper half with the cream cheese mixture.
4. Arrange the stuffed peppers on a serving platter.

3. Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites

Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites likely originated in Scandinavian countries, where smoked salmon is a traditional staple.

Ingredients:

• 1 large English cucumber
• 8 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the cucumber into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Top each with a piece of smoked salmon.
5. Garnish with additional dill if desired.

5. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs originated in ancient Rome, but the modern version became popular in Europe, particularly in Spain and later in the United States.

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 12 minutes.
3. Drain and transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool.
4. Peel the eggs and slice them in half lengthwise.
5. Remove the yolks and place them in a small bowl.
6. Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
7. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
8. Sprinkle with paprika before serving.

These appetizers are not only suitable for individuals living with diabetes but are also flavorful and satisfying for everyone else. Remember, good monitoring, daily workouts, and medication (when necessary) are the keys to a healthy life even with diabetes. Monitoring your diabetes does not involve repeated finger pricks anymore, simply insert a CGM (continuous glucose monitor) sensor and get your blood sugar readings 24/7 on your compatible smartphone or a handy reader. And the best part is you may be eligible to get one through your insurance as well. Get a free benefit check now or simply buy one using your debit/credit card at CGM Monitors.