Nice collection of simple low carb sides. Each recipe keeps carbs at 15 grams or fewer per serving. Way better than settling for bland vegetables.
The Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice works really well. Only 10 grams of carbs per serving. Packed with flavor and color. Most of these are gluten-free and dairy-free too. Perfect with chicken or fish.
Best part? Every single one takes 30 minutes or less. No complicated steps or long prep times.
Mashed Cauliflower with Garlic and Herbs
Image Source: YouTube
Great substitute for mashed potatoes. All the comfort without the carb overload. Ready in 30 minutes.
Mashed Cauliflower flavor profile
Surprisingly rich and buttery. The cauliflower has natural nuttiness that soaks up flavors perfectly. I add butter, cream cheese, and fresh herbs. Even picky eaters like it.
For more robust taste, use roasted garlic cloves. Rosemary, thyme, parsley, or chives work well. I always add parmesan cheese. Gives it a savory, nutty kick.
It’s lighter than regular mashed potatoes. More nuanced flavor too.
Mashed Cauliflower cooking time
30 minutes or less. Steam the florets for 8-10 minutes until fork-tender. You can boil for 10-15 minutes instead.
Don’t overcook. Fork should glide right through when it’s ready. Then just 2-3 minutes in the food processor.
Mashed Cauliflower nutritional benefits
Only 27-29 calories per cup. Just 5-8 grams of carbs. Compare that to potatoes – 161 calories and 36 grams of carbs.
Loaded with vitamin C – 74% of daily needs. Also vitamin K and B vitamins. Plus 2 grams of fiber.
Contains choline for metabolism. The antioxidants might help with inflammation.
Sauteed Zucchini with Parmesan
Image Source: Inspired Taste
Great way to make zucchini taste amazing. Simple technique that actually works.
Sauteed Zucchini flavor profile
I slice mine into ½-inch rounds. The garlic butter makes all the difference. Natural sweetness comes out when you get those golden-brown edges right.
Parmesan cheese transforms the whole dish. For me, fresh thyme works better than basil. I add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. Balances the richness perfectly.
Sauteed Zucchini cooking method
Don’t overcrowd the pan. That’s the biggest mistake. Single layer only or you’ll end up steaming instead of browning.
I heat olive oil first, then add zucchini. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes until they start browning. Then flip. Add garlic and butter at the end so they don’t burn.
Season with salt and pepper right before serving. If you add salt too early, the zucchini releases too much water.
Sauteed Zucchini best pairings
Works with everything. I serve it with grilled chicken most often. Also great with salmon or cod for lighter meals.
For heartier dinners, pairs well with steak. The mild zucchini won’t fight with stronger flavors. I’ve even served it with warm marinara for dipping. Tastes like pizza without the carbs.
Grilled Cabbage Steaks
Image Source: EatingWell
Really surprised me, this one. Grilled cabbage steaks turn budget-friendly cabbage into something special in under 30 minutes.
Grilled Cabbage Steaks texture
The texture is what makes this work. Crispy, charred edges with a tender center. Cut them 1-inch thick and keep the core intact. Otherwise the leaves fall apart on the grill.
High heat caramelizes the natural sugars. Makes it sweet and nutty. Even people who hate cabbage like it grilled. The charring mellows any bitterness.
Grilled Cabbage Steaks seasoning ideas
Perfect with just olive oil, salt, and pepper. But you can get creative:
- Garlic powder and parmesan for savory flavor
- Balsamic glaze for something fancy
- Sesame oil and soy sauce for Asian style
- Red pepper flakes if you like heat
Pairs great with grilled chicken or steak. The smoky flavor works with everything.
Cherry Tomato Mozzarella Saute
Image Source: Punchfork
Really nice Mediterranean-style side. Cherry tomatoes and mozzarella work perfectly together.
Cherry Tomato Mozzarella flavor combo
Sweet cherry tomatoes balance beautifully with mild mozzarella. The tomatoes release their juices when heated, creating a light sauce. Mozzarella softens but keeps its shape.
I always add shallots for gentle sweetness. Garlic adds depth. Fresh basil or thyme tie everything together. For heat, add red chili flakes.
Cherry Tomato Mozzarella quick prep tips
Takes about 20 minutes. I halve the cherry tomatoes right before cooking. Sauté shallots first, then garlic for just one minute.
Important tip: Add cheese off-heat. Remove the pan before stirring in mozzarella to prevent stringiness.
Serve immediately if warm. Can prep 4 hours ahead and store in fridge.
Only 127 calories and 6g carbs per serving. Works great with grilled chicken or fish.
Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans
Image Source: Hip2Keto
Overall, great combination. Bacon and green beans work perfectly together.
Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans flavor profile
Really nice balance of salty and fresh. The bacon gets crispy while the beans stay tender-crisp. I would add a touch of garlic powder to the bundles before baking.
For extra flavor, try a light sprinkle of brown sugar. Creates nice caramelization. Some people drizzle balsamic butter sauce. I prefer keeping it simple with just salt and pepper.
Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans carb content
Excellent for low carb eating. About 7g carbs per serving with 2g fiber. Just 5g net carbs. Green beans are naturally low carb compared to other vegetables.
Make sure to use sugar-free bacon. Maple-cured versions add unnecessary carbs.
Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans best occasions
Perfect for holidays. They look elegant and taste amazing. I make extra portions for Thanksgiving – they disappear fast.
Great for dinner parties too. You can prep them ahead of time. They pair well with beef, chicken, or pork. Even work with comfort foods like meatloaf.
Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice
Image Source: Healthy Foodie Girl
Great rice substitute. Really bright flavors that work with Mexican dishes.
Cauliflower Rice flavor profile
Cauliflower soaks up the lime and cilantro perfectly. I add extra lime zest for punch. The texture is more like couscous than rice, but it works.
For me, garlic and scallions make a big difference. I sauté them first before adding the cauliflower. Takes away any bitterness from the raw vegetable. Way better than plain cauliflower rice.
Cauliflower Rice cooking time
Super quick. 3-5 minutes on the stovetop with olive oil. I prefer this over the microwave method.
Microwave works too – 4-7 minutes with a tablespoon of water. Oven method takes 15-20 minutes at 390°F for nuttier flavor. I use stovetop most of the time. Fast and simple.
Cauliflower Rice best pairings
Perfect with chicken fajitas and carne asada. I make burrito bowls with it all the time – add guacamole, salsa, whatever protein you want.
Works with grilled fish too. Really versatile base for lots of different meals.
Spinach-Parm Casserole
Image Source: Food.com
Really nice spinach casserole. Rich and creamy without being too heavy.
Spinach-Parm Casserole texture
Perfect texture when done right. Creamy cheese interior with a golden Parmesan crust on top. Each bite melts in your mouth.
Key is draining the spinach properly after cooking. Remove excess moisture or you’ll get a watery mess. I cook fresh spinach just until wilted – about 1 minute. Don’t overcook it. Should still have a slight bite.
The cheese mixture holds everything together nicely. Some recipes add panko breadcrumbs on top. I skip them for lower carbs. The Parmesan forms its own golden crust anyway.
Spinach-Parm Casserole low-carb benefits
Only 2.9g net carbs per serving. Perfect for keto. Plus you get 10g protein.
Around 239 calories per serving. 7g total carbs but 3g fiber offsets that. Good nutritional value without the carb overload.
Spinach packs vitamins A, C, and K. Also calcium, iron, and magnesium. The antioxidants help with immune health and inflammation.
Works as a side dish or appetizer spread on low-carb crackers. Reheats well for up to 3 days.
Grilled Broccoli with Lemon
Image Source: Pineapple House Rules
Grilling broccoli changes everything. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating a slightly sweet, smoky flavor. Even people who hate broccoli usually like it this way.
Grilled Broccoli flavor profile
The charred lemon makes this dish special. When you grill lemon halves, they get sweeter and more complex. Squeeze that over the broccoli right before serving. Perfect balance with the smoky notes.
I add garlic powder for savory depth. Fresh black pepper adds bite. A light dusting of Parmesan creates a nutty finish. For heat lovers, red pepper flakes work great.
Grilled Broccoli cooking method
Proper prep is key. Cut broccoli into large florets about 2 inches wide and 4 inches long. This prevents them from falling through the grates. Create flat sides for maximum grill contact.
Two methods work well:
Direct grilling: Place directly on medium-high heat grill grates at 375°F. Grill 3-4 minutes per side until you get char marks and tender texture with crispy edges.
Foil method: Place seasoned broccoli in foil packets. Takes 10-20 minutes depending on floret size. Still gets smoky flavor but more tender.
I tent with foil after the initial char. Traps moisture and prevents burning while getting crisp-tender throughout. Grill lemon halves cut-side down for 3-4 minutes until charred.
Smashed Cucumber Salad
Image Source: BBC
Great technique for cucumber salad. The smashing method really works.
Smashed Cucumber Salad texture
Smashed cucumbers are way better than sliced ones. The craggy edges and rough surfaces actually absorb the dressing. Regular sliced cucumbers just sit there.
Salt them for about 20 minutes after smashing. Draws out excess water. Makes them crunchy and pickle-like. Don’t skip draining the water.
Each bite is different. The irregular surfaces hold seasoning much better.
Smashed Cucumber Salad flavor balance
Simple but perfect combination. Cucumber’s natural sweetness works with acidic vinegar.
Fresh dill makes it addictive. For Asian style, try garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce.
Add red chili flakes for heat. Toasted sesame seeds for crunch. Chopped mint for freshness.
Only 89 calories and 11.5g carbs per cup. Goes with everything.
Roasted Rosemary Cauliflower
Image Source: Sum of Yum
Simple roasted cauliflower with rosemary. Smells amazing while cooking.
Rosemary Cauliflower aroma
Your kitchen will smell incredible. The rosemary and garlic combo works perfectly. I use fresh rosemary sprigs – easier to remove after cooking. For stronger flavor, chop it fine and leave it in.
Even people who don’t like cauliflower get drawn in by the smell. The roasting completely changes the mild cauliflower scent into something rich and nutty.
Rosemary Cauliflower cooking time
Preheat oven to 425°F. Takes about 20-25 minutes. I check around 18 minutes for firmer texture.
Stir once halfway through. Done when florets are fork-tender with golden-brown edges. That browning is key for flavor.
Minimal prep needed. Just toss with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper. The oven does the work.
Cheesy Baked Asparagus
Image Source: Peace Love and Low Carb
Simple asparagus dish that works really well. Ready in under 20 minutes.
Cheesy Asparagus flavor profile
Nice balance here. The mozzarella doesn’t overpower the asparagus. I like that the cheese stays mild and creamy.
For garlic, I’d use 2-3 cloves. If you’re not big on garlic, just use one.
Few ways to jazz it up:
- Add cayenne for heat
- Mix in some Parmesan with the mozzarella
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes
The asparagus stays crisp-tender when done right. Cheese gets that golden brown finish under the broiler. Looks impressive.
Cheesy Asparagus low-carb benefits
Perfect for keto folks. Just 4g net carbs per serving. Gets 6g total carbs with 2g fiber.
Protein varies depending on how much cheese you use. Light version gives you 4g protein. Go heavier on cheese and you get 11g.
Calories range from 135 to 261 per serving. Depends on your prep method.
Asparagus itself packs vitamins A, C, and K plus folate. It’s 94% water. Fills you up without the carbs.
Chinese-Style Zucchini
Image Source: Indian Veggie Delight
Quick stir-fry that actually tastes like restaurant food. Takes 15 minutes total.
Chinese Zucchini seasoning
Soy sauce makes the base. I add minced garlic, ginger, and scallions for that authentic Chinese flavor trinity. For more depth, try vegetarian oyster sauce or hoisin sauce.
Heat elements work really well here. I use crushed black pepper or garlic chili paste. A touch of sesame oil at the end adds nuttiness. Apple cider vinegar balances the savory notes perfectly.
The key is balancing everything. Too much soy sauce overpowers the zucchini.
Chinese Zucchini quick stir-fry method
High heat is everything. Prep all ingredients first – the cooking happens fast.
I salt the sliced zucchini and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This draws out moisture so it stays crisp. Rinse and pat dry before cooking.
Heat the wok until nearly smoking. Add aromatics for just 20-30 seconds until fragrant. Then add zucchini and cook 2-3 minutes on high heat. Still should be crisp.
Add sauces last. Toss everything together and cook 30-60 seconds more. Under 5 minutes total cooking time.
Skillet Cabbage with Onions
Image Source: Food.com
Really transforms how you think about cabbage. This simple skillet method makes it sweet and caramelized.
Skillet Cabbage flavor profile
The slow cooking changes everything. Cabbage becomes tender and slightly sweet as it caramelizes. I prefer using butter for the rich base, though bacon fat adds nice smoky depth.
For me, the onions are essential – they cook alongside the cabbage and add extra sweetness. I always add garlic for depth. Sometimes I use smoked paprika for subtle smokiness.
Apple cider vinegar brightens it up nicely. A touch of brown sugar helps with caramelization. White cabbage works best. Napa cabbage gets too watery.
Skillet Cabbage cooking time
Takes about 20 minutes total. Actual cooking is 10-15 minutes.
I heat the skillet first, then add butter and onions. Let them go 5-7 minutes until golden before adding cabbage. You can add both together if you want.
Stir occasionally until cabbage gets tender with light brown edges. That’s when you know it’s caramelized properly. I cover with a lid for about 10 minutes to steam initially.
Don’t overcook it. Should stay slightly crisp, not mushy. Focus on browning rather than just softening.
Grilled Eggplant with Feta Relish
Image Source: tasty seasons
Really good Mediterranean side dish. Grilled eggplant gets smoky and caramelized while staying tender inside.
Grilled Eggplant flavor profile
Eggplant transforms completely on the grill. The natural sugars caramelize, creating sweet undertones that balance the earthiness. I cut mine about 1-inch thick for best results. Keeps the structure intact while developing those nice grill marks.
The feta relish makes this dish special. Fresh basil, thyme, and oregano work perfectly with the smoky eggplant. The salty feta cheese balances everything out. For extra flavor, try:
- Pomegranate molasses for tang
- Fresh lemon juice for brightness
- Garlic-jalapeño olive oil for heat
Grilled Eggplant best pairings
Works great with Mediterranean proteins like spinach-stuffed chicken or grilled shrimp. I also serve it with watermelon arugula feta salad for a complete meal. Goes well with pasta dishes too – spaghetti with chicken and tomatoes or angel hair with zucchini.
Makes an impressive starter with warm pita bread. Pairs beautifully with roast lamb – classic Turkish combination. For wine, try Negroamaro or Primitivo. Perfect for dinner parties or casual summer grilling.
Oven-Roasted Carrots with Thyme
Image Source: The Whole Cook
Nice way to make carrots actually interesting. Roasting really brings out their natural sweetness.
Roasted Carrots sweetness
Roasting carrots changes everything. The high heat caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a perfectly caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender. Even picky eaters like them this way.
Skip the baby carrots. Use whole carrots instead. Better flavor and texture. Pick similar-sized ones so they cook evenly.
Roast at 400°F for best results. Takes about 20-25 minutes for 1½-inch thick slices. Check with a fork around the 20-minute mark.
Roasted Carrots seasoning ideas
Thyme works great, but you can switch it up:
- Herb options: Try rosemary, parsley, or dill instead
- Spice additions: Garlic powder, paprika, even a pinch of cumin works
- Sweet variations: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup
- Savory direction: Add fresh garlic and parmesan
Keep seasoning simple. Thyme adds nice earthy notes without overwhelming the caramelized flavor. Roasting brings out so much natural taste that you don’t need much.
Goes with pretty much any protein.
Tex-Mex Summer Squash
Image Source: Eat Your Way Clean
Great way to use up summer squash. The Ro*tel® tomatoes and green chilies really make this dish. For me, I’d skip the jalapeños and use a second can of green chilies instead. Less heat, same flavor.
Tex-Mex Squash flavor profile
I always add extra cumin and chili powder to this. The sour cream and mayo base works well, but I use Greek yogurt instead. Sharp cheddar gives better flavor than mild.
Yellow squash absorbs all the seasonings perfectly. I make mine as a quick sauté rather than a casserole. Takes about 15 minutes total.
Tex-Mex Squash low-carb benefits
Only 9g carbs per serving. Yellow squash itself has just 4g net carbs. Pretty impressive for something this filling.
Loaded with beta-carotene and 4g of fiber. I add bell peppers and onions without worrying about the carb count. Still stays low while adding more nutrition.
Perfect for anyone watching carbs but wanting actual flavor.
Garlic-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Image Source: Ruled Me
Great way to convert Brussels sprouts haters. These get seriously crispy and flavorful in just 30 minutes.
Brussels Sprouts crispiness
Cut them in half lengthwise. Always place cut side down on the baking sheet. That’s the secret to getting those beautifully caramelized edges while keeping the inside tender.
Oven needs to be hot. 400-450°F works best. Don’t crowd the pan – each sprout needs space or they’ll steam instead of roast. I see people make this mistake all the time.
Dry them completely before roasting. Any moisture kills the crispiness. Roast cut side down for the full 25-30 minutes. Those dark brown bits? That’s where all the flavor is.
Brussels Sprouts seasoning ideas
Salt and pepper are fine, but you can do better:
- Use 4-6 garlic cloves per pound of sprouts
- Add parmesan in the last 5 minutes of roasting
- Splash of balsamic vinegar brightens everything up
- Red pepper flakes add nice heat without overpowering
Try honey for sweet-savory balance. Bacon works great too – either crumbled on top or render it first for extra flavor.
Test doneness with a knife – should slide in easily but sprouts still hold their shape. Perfect texture is crispy outside, tender inside.
Spaghetti Squash with Tomatoes and Olives
Image Source: Kalyn’s Kitchen
Great pasta substitute. The texture really works when you cook it right.
Spaghetti Squash texture
When I bake spaghetti squash, I aim for that perfect crisp-tender bite. The strands come out naturally when you scrape with a fork – no special tools needed. Much better texture than I expected the first time I tried it.
Bake at 400°F for 30-45 minutes. I check it around 30 minutes – you want it tender but not mushy. The strands should separate easily but still have some firmness. Way better than overcooked squash that turns to mush.
Spaghetti Squash Mediterranean flavors
The mild squash works perfectly with bold Mediterranean ingredients. I combine diced tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese for that classic flavor. Add fresh basil and garlic for brightness.
Only 4.2g net carbs per cup. I halve the squash lengthwise, remove seeds, then bake it. While it’s cooking, I sauté onions and garlic until soft, then add the tomatoes and olives. Once the squash is ready, scrape out the strands and mix with the warm vegetables and crumbled feta.
Works great as a main dish too with a simple salad. Keeps well for leftovers.
Conclusion
These low-carb sides prove vegetables don’t have to be boring. Most contain fewer than 10g net carbs per serving. Perfect for keto or just cutting carbs.
Simple modifications make these your own. Swap herbs, adjust spices, try different cheeses. The grilled vegetables add smoky flavor. Cauliflower mash gives you that comfort food feel.
Start with one or two recipes each week. Which one looks good to you?
FAQs
Q1. What are some quick and easy low-carb side dishes?
Some quick and easy low-carb side dishes include mashed cauliflower with garlic and herbs, sautéed zucchini with Parmesan, grilled cabbage steaks, cherry tomato mozzarella sauté, and bacon-wrapped green beans. These dishes can be prepared in 30 minutes or less and contain 15 grams or fewer carbohydrates per serving.
Q2. How can I make vegetables more flavorful without adding carbs?
You can enhance the flavor of vegetables without adding carbs by using herbs, spices, and healthy fats. For example, roast Brussels sprouts with garlic, season grilled eggplant with herbs, or add feta cheese to sautéed vegetables. Grilling or roasting vegetables can also bring out their natural sweetness and create caramelization for added flavor.
Q3. What’s a good low-carb alternative to rice or pasta?
Cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb alternative to regular rice. It can be seasoned with cilantro and lime for a flavorful side dish. Another option is spaghetti squash, which creates pasta-like strands when cooked and can be paired with various sauces and toppings like tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Q4. Are there any filling low-carb side dishes for those on a ketogenic diet?
Yes, there are several filling low-carb side dishes suitable for a ketogenic diet. Some options include cheesy baked asparagus, spinach-parmesan casserole, and bacon-wrapped green beans. These dishes are high in fat and low in carbs, making them ideal for those following a keto eating plan.
Q5. How can I incorporate more variety into my low-carb side dishes?
To add variety to your low-carb side dishes, experiment with different cooking methods and flavor profiles. Try grilling vegetables like eggplant or cabbage, roasting carrots with different herbs, or preparing squash with Tex-Mex seasonings. You can also explore international flavors, such as Chinese-style zucchini or Mediterranean-inspired dishes, to keep your meals interesting and diverse.