Try these 22 delicious low-carb side dishes to complement any meal and satisfy your cravings without breaking your carb count. These sides are packed with flavors from zesty spaghetti squash with garlic and butter to the crispy crunch of Parmesan zucchini chips and the creamy delight of cauliflower mash.
Each recipe is customizable, allowing you to add your personal touch while also serving as a perfect fit for those seeking a low-carb lifestyle. So dive in, and discover these irresistible sides that are not just low in carbs but also brimming with essential nutrients and mouthwatering tastes
1. Cauliflower Rice
A Versatile Side Dish
Cauliflower rice is a fantastic, low-carb substitute for regular rice. Made by grating or processing cauliflower until it resembles grains, it offers a great way to increase your vegetable intake and cut carbs simultaneously. You can season it with herbs and spices to match any dish.
Perfect for Different Diets
Whether you’re following a keto diet, paleo, or just trying to eat healthier, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice. It’s also gluten-free and vegan, making it versatile enough to serve to a crowd with varying dietary needs.
Customizable to Your Preference
Feel free to add in other finely chopped veggies, or mix in some sautéed garlic or onions for extra flavor. You can even make it a colorful dish by using a mix of white, green, and purple cauliflower.
2. Zucchini Noodles
A Light and Nutritious Option
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles”, are a well-loved low-carb substitute for pasta. Made by spiralizing zucchini into noodle-like strands, they can be served raw, sautéed, or lightly steamed. They’re a light, refreshing side dish, especially when tossed in a light dressing.
Ideal for Health Conscious Individuals
Zoodles are perfect if you’re trying to cut down on carbs, or if you’re following a gluten-free, paleo, or vegetarian diet. Plus, they’re a fun way to get more vegetables into your diet, and kids love them too!
Create Your Zoodle Dish
Try them with pesto, marinara sauce, or just a simple toss in olive oil and garlic. You can also mix in other spiralized veggies like carrots or beets for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish.
3. Sauteed Spinach with Garlic
A Quick and Easy Side
Sauteed spinach with garlic is a simple, low-carb side dish that takes only a few minutes to prepare. The spinach is lightly wilted, and the garlic adds a wonderful flavor that pairs well with many main dishes.
Packed with Nutrients
Spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s also extremely low in carbs, making it perfect for a keto diet or anyone trying to reduce their carb intake. And garlic isn’t just a flavor powerhouse; it’s also packed with health benefits.
A Versatile Side Dish
You can adjust the recipe according to your preferences, adding things like chili flakes for heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity. You can also use other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard in place of the spinach.
4. Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
A Delicious Low-Carb Treat
Broccoli and cheese stuffed mushrooms are a delicious low-carb side dish that also double as a tasty appetizer. The mushrooms are stuffed with a flavorful combination of broccoli and cheese, and then baked until golden.
Great for Many Diets
This side dish is perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet, but it’s also gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a great choice for serving to a crowd with varied dietary needs.
Customize to Your Liking
You can switch up the type of cheese you use, or add additional ingredients like bacon bits or chopped bell pepper. You can also use different types of mushrooms, from button to portobello, depending on your preference.
5. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest
A Simple Yet Flavorful Dish
Roasted asparagus with lemon zest is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s low in carbs and packed with nutrients. The asparagus is roasted until tender, and the lemon zest adds a fresh, bright flavor.
Suitable for Various Dietary Preferences
This dish is not only low-carb, but it’s also vegan, paleo, and gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.
Easy to Adjust
You can add other flavors to this dish to suit your taste. Try adding minced garlic, parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also roast the asparagus with slices of lemon for even more lemon flavor.
6. Grilled Brussel Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
An Unexpected Delight
Grilled Brussel sprouts with balsamic glaze are a flavorful and low-carb side that will impress even the skeptics. The grilling process gives the sprouts a slightly charred, smoky flavor, and the balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness.
Suitable for Different Eating Plans
Brussel sprouts are a nutritious and low-carb vegetable that fits into a variety of diets, including keto, paleo, and vegan.
Adaptable to Taste
Feel free to adjust the balsamic glaze to your liking, or add in other flavors like garlic or chili flakes. You could even add some crumbled bacon for extra crunch and flavor.
7. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
A Flavorful Vegetable Side
Garlic parmesan roasted green beans are a delicious, low-carb side that goes with almost anything. The green beans are tossed in a mix of garlic and parmesan, then roasted until crisp-tender and golden.
Perfect for Various Diets
This dish is not only low-carb but also gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a versatile side dish for those with specific dietary needs.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or parmesan to suit your tastes, or add in other flavors like lemon zest or crushed red pepper flakes. You could also toss the beans with some slivered almonds for added crunch.
8. Cucumber and Tomato Salad
A Refreshing, Crunchy Side
This cucumber and tomato salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for a hot day. The crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and tangy vinaigrette create a symphony of flavors that’s both satisfying and light.
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Ideal for Health Conscious Individuals
This salad is low-carb, gluten-free, vegan, and extremely nutritious, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.
Customizable to Preference
You can easily adjust this salad to suit your tastes. Try adding some feta cheese, olives, or fresh herbs for added flavor and complexity.
9. Roasted Eggplant with Herbs
A Hearty and Satisfying Side
Roasted eggplant with herbs is a hearty and satisfying side dish that’s surprisingly low in carbs. The eggplant is roasted until tender and flavorful, then tossed with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
Versatile for Different Diets
This dish is not only low-carb but also vegan, paleo, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Easy to Adjust
Feel free to experiment with different herbs, or add some garlic or chili flakes for extra flavor. You could also sprinkle some feta cheese on top for a tangy twist.
10. Cauliflower Mash
A Creamy, Comforting Side
Cauliflower mash is a creamy and comforting side dish that’s a perfect low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes. The cauliflower is cooked until tender, then mashed with cream and butter until it’s smooth and delicious.
Ideal for Low-Carb and Keto Diets
This dish is low in carbs but high in flavor, making it a perfect choice for a low-carb or keto diet.
Customizable to Your Liking
You can adjust this recipe to suit your tastes by adding different flavors like garlic, chives, or cheese. You could also replace some of the cauliflower with other low-carb vegetables like broccoli or turnips.
11. Creamed Spinach
A Rich and Comforting Side
Creamed spinach is a rich and comforting side dish that’s lower in carbs than you might expect. The spinach is cooked down until tender, then mixed with cream, butter, and a hint of nutmeg for a luxurious finish.
Great for Low-Carb and Keto Diets
This dish is high in fat and low in carbs, making it perfect for a low-carb or keto diet.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Try adding some sautéed garlic or onion for extra flavor, or sprinkle some grated cheese on top for a deliciously melty finish.
12. Roasted Spaghetti Squash
A Versatile and Nutritious Side
Roasted spaghetti squash is a versatile and nutritious side dish. When roasted, the flesh of the squash separates into thin, noodle-like strands that can be used as a low-carb substitute for traditional pasta.
Ideal for Various Diets
This dish is not only low-carb but also gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Easily Adjustable
Feel free to customize your spaghetti squash with your favorite spices, or toss it with some olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a simple and flavorful side.
13. Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar
A Crunchy and Satisfying Side
Broccoli salad with bacon and cheddar is a crunchy and satisfying side dish. The crisp broccoli is combined with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy dressing for a dish that’s packed with flavor.
Great for Low-Carb and Keto Diets
This dish is high in fat and low in carbs, making it perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to customize this salad to suit your tastes. Try adding some chopped onion or raisins for added flavor and texture, or swap the cheddar for your favorite cheese.
14. Cauliflower Fried Rice
A Flavorful and Nutritious Side
Cauliflower fried rice is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s low in carbs. The cauliflower is finely chopped or processed to resemble grains of rice, then stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and savory seasonings.
Ideal for Low-Carb Diets
This dish is not only low in carbs but also packed with fiber and vitamins, making it a great substitute for traditional fried rice.
Customizable to Your Liking
Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try adding some diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a boost of protein.
15. Baked Eggplant Fries
A Crispy and Savory Side
Baked eggplant fries are a crispy and savory side dish that’s surprisingly low in carbs. The eggplant is cut into thin strips, coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, and then baked until golden and crispy.
A Unique Low-Carb Treat
These fries offer a unique low-carb alternative to traditional potato fries, and they’re also packed with essential nutrients.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite spices or seasonings, or serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice for added flavor.
16. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A Tasty and Nutrient-Dense Side
Garlic Parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts are a tasty and nutrient-dense side dish. The Brussels sprouts are roasted with garlic and Parmesan cheese until they’re tender and caramelized, creating a mouthwatering mix of flavors.
Perfect for Low-Carb Diets
This dish is low in carbs and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb diet.
Easily Adjustable
Feel free to adjust this recipe to your liking by adding additional seasonings, or toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with some lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish.
17. Creamy Cucumber Salad
A Cool and Refreshing Side
Creamy cucumber salad is a cool and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for a hot day. The cucumbers are thinly sliced and tossed with a creamy dressing, resulting in a light and tangy dish.
Ideal for Low-Carb and Keto Diets
This salad is not only low in carbs but also high in fat, making it ideal for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Easily Customizable
Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite herbs or add some diced red onion or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
18. Parmesan Zucchini Chips
A Crispy and Flavorful Snack
Parmesan zucchini chips are a crispy and flavorful side dish that’s low in carbs. The zucchini slices are coated in a Parmesan cheese mixture, then baked until golden and crispy.
A Healthy Alternative to Chips
These zucchini chips offer a healthier, low-carb alternative to traditional potato chips, and they’re also packed with essential nutrients.
Customize Your Chips
Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite spices or seasonings, or serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice for added flavor.
19. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
A Simple and Nutritious Side
Garlic roasted broccoli is a simple and nutritious side dish. The broccoli is tossed with garlic and olive oil, then roasted until crispy and caramelized.
Perfect for Low-Carb Diets
This dish is low in carbs and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb diet.
Easily Adjustable
Feel free to adjust this recipe to your liking by adding additional seasonings or spices, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.
20. Spaghetti Squash with Garlic and Butter
A Flavorful and Low-Carb Pasta Substitute
Spaghetti squash with garlic and butter is a flavorful and low-carb substitute for traditional pasta dishes. The spaghetti squash is roasted, then tossed with garlic and butter for a simple yet satisfying side dish.
Read also: 25 Sauces For Shrimp
Ideal for Low-Carb Diets
This dish is low in carbs and packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a great addition to any low-carb meal plan.
Easily Customizable
Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or cheeses, or even some sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
21. Cauliflower Pizza Bites
A Fun and Healthy Snack
Cauliflower pizza bites are a fun and healthy snack that’s low in carbs. The cauliflower is combined with cheese and seasonings to create a delicious and crispy crust, then topped with pizza sauce and more cheese.
A Tasty Low-Carb Treat
These pizza bites offer a tasty low-carb alternative to traditional pizza bites, and they’re also packed with essential nutrients.
Customize Your Toppings
Feel free to customize these pizza bites with your favorite toppings, such as different types of cheese, vegetables, or meats.
22. Zucchini Boats
A Creative and Nutritious Side
Zucchini boats are a creative and nutritious side dish that’s low in carbs. The zucchini is hollowed out to create a “boat,” then filled with a savory filling and baked until tender.
Perfect for Low-Carb Diets
These zucchini boats are not only low in carbs but also packed with vitamins and fiber, making them a great addition to any low-carb meal plan.
Easily Customizable
Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as different types of cheese, vegetables, or proteins.
Conclusion
So there you have it, 22 low-carb side dishes that will transform your meals and make your low-carb diet more exciting and flavorful. This list proves that low-carb doesn’t mean low-taste. From roasted green beans with almonds to cucumber and tomato salad, these dishes offer a variety of textures and flavors that will keep you satisfied and motivated on your low-carb journey.
Don’t let dietary restrictions stop you from enjoying diverse, tasty meals. With these recipes in your culinary arsenal, you can stick to your low-carb diet without compromising on taste or nutrition. Happy cooking, and enjoy your low-carb lifestyle with these scrumptious side dishes!
