Finding tasty side dishes that follow keto rules can be tricky.
Many traditional sides like potatoes, rice, and pasta contain too many carbs.
But don’t worry – there are plenty of delicious options that will keep you in ketosis.
These keto-friendly side dishes will complement your main courses perfectly while helping you maintain your low-carb lifestyle.
From creamy cauliflower mash to tangy coleslaw and cheesy veggie bakes, you’ll discover options that might even outshine your main dish.
With these recipes in your collection, you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything while following your keto diet.
1. Cauliflower Fried Rice
Cauliflower fried rice is a popular low-carb alternative to traditional rice dishes. By replacing rice with riced cauliflower, you can enjoy a classic Chinese-inspired dish without the extra carbs.
This keto-friendly side dish cooks in less than 15 minutes, making it perfect for quick meals.
You can customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables.
For the best flavor, try sautéing the cauliflower rice with onions, mushrooms, and garlic.
Some recipes suggest adding chicken stock gradually, similar to making risotto, for a creamier texture.
Cauliflower fried rice works well as a standalone lunch or as a side dish to complement your main course.
2. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a perfect keto side dish that combines leafy greens with rich, creamy goodness. It takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and contains no flour or grains.
This dish features spinach cooked in a mixture of cream, butter, and cheese that creates a thick, flavorful sauce. The cheesy flavor is so good that even kids might ask for seconds.
You can easily customize creamed spinach by adding different cheeses or spices.
It pairs well with almost any main dish, from steak to chicken to fish.
Serve it warm for the best taste and texture. It’s an impressive side dish for holidays or everyday meals that will please both keto and non-keto eaters alike.
3. Zucchini Alfredo
Zucchini Alfredo offers a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. This keto-friendly side uses spiralized zucchini noodles (often called “zoodles”) as the base.
The creamy Alfredo sauce combines heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese for a rich flavor that complements the mild zucchini perfectly.
You can prepare this dish in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
For best results, don’t overcook your zucchini noodles. They should remain slightly firm to avoid becoming soggy. Fresh Italian herbs like basil or parsley make excellent garnishes.
This versatile side pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete keto meal.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a delicious keto side dish that combines crispy bacon with tender asparagus. With only a few ingredients, it’s simple to prepare yet impressive to serve.
You can cook this versatile dish in the oven, on the grill, or in an air fryer. The bacon adds a savory flavor while keeping the asparagus moist and tender.
For extra flavor, some recipes include a brown sugar substitute glaze using Swerve Brown. This addition makes the dish even more delicious without adding carbs.
This side dish pairs perfectly with steak or chicken and works equally well as an appetizer. It’s naturally low-carb, making it ideal for your keto meal plan.
5. Cheesy Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts make an excellent keto side dish, especially when covered in cheese. This low-carb option combines the nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts with creamy, melted cheese for a satisfying combination.
You can easily prepare this dish by roasting Brussels sprouts until crispy, then topping them with a blend of cheeses like cheddar and parmesan. Adding bacon bits takes this side dish to another level, providing extra flavor and fat content.
For extra creaminess, some recipes include a cheese sauce made with heavy cream. This transforms simple Brussels sprouts into a rich, indulgent side dish that fits perfectly into your keto meal plan.
6. Mashed Turnips
Turnips make an excellent low-carb substitute for potatoes when you’re following a keto diet. With fewer carbs than potatoes, they can satisfy your craving for something creamy and comforting.
To make mashed turnips, simply peel and boil them until tender, then mash with butter, cream, and seasonings. Adding garlic, herbs, and a touch of onion can enhance their natural flavor.
The texture is slightly different from potatoes – a bit more watery – but this can be improved by draining them well after boiling. Some recipes recommend mixing in cream cheese for extra thickness.
You can elevate your mashed turnips by adding bacon bits, chives, or a sprinkle of cheese on top.
7. Roasted Eggplant
Roasted eggplant is a delicious keto-friendly side dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. This versatile vegetable caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a tender texture with rich flavor.
To make it, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients: eggplant, olive oil, salt, and your choice of seasonings.
Simply slice the eggplant, toss with oil and spices, then roast until golden brown.
While eggplant contains some carbs, it’s still suitable for most keto diets when enjoyed in moderation. Each serving provides fiber and nutrients without excessive carbs.
For the best results, roast at high heat (around 400°F) until the edges are crispy and the center is tender.
8. Keto Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a holiday favorite you can still enjoy on a keto diet. This low-carb version features fresh green beans smothered in a rich mushroom cream sauce.
Instead of using canned soup and fried onions, this keto-friendly version uses fresh mushrooms, garlic, and onions. The creamy sauce gets its thickness from cream cheese rather than flour.
For the crunchy topping, skip the breadcrumbs and opt for a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Some recipes even create a crispy cheese topping that mimics the traditional crunch.
You can prepare this dish for everyday dinners or save it for special holiday meals. It pairs well with turkey, ham, or any keto main dish.
9. Low Carb Cauliflower Cheese
Cauliflower cheese is a perfect keto-friendly side dish that’s both comforting and delicious. This dish features tender cauliflower florets covered in a rich, cheesy sauce.
You can make this easily by boiling cauliflower until just tender, then baking it with a mixture of cheddar cheese and heavy cream.
With only about 3.9g net carbs per serving, it’s an excellent choice for your low-carb menu.
For extra flavor, try using a blend of three different cheeses. The melty texture and savory taste make this a side dish that might just steal the show from your main course.
10. Marinated Mozzarella Balls
Marinated mozzarella balls make a perfect keto-friendly side dish that’s both easy to prepare and delicious. These small bites of cheese absorb the flavors of herbs and oils beautifully.
You can customize your marinade with olive oil, fresh herbs like basil and oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes. The longer you let them marinate, the more flavorful they become.
These cheese balls can be served alongside grilled meats or as part of a keto appetizer spread. They contain virtually no carbs while providing plenty of fat and protein, making them ideal for your keto meal plan.
Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week for a quick snack option.
11. Broccoli Cheddar Muffins
Broccoli Cheddar Muffins are perfect keto-friendly side dishes with less than 2 net carbs each. These savory muffins combine the goodness of broccoli with rich cheddar cheese for a satisfying treat.
Made with almond flour instead of regular flour, these muffins stay low-carb while still offering a delicious bread-like texture.
The recipe requires just a few simple ingredients, making them easy to prepare any day of the week.
You can pair these cheesy muffins with soups, chili, or stews for a complete meal. They also work great as a quick snack when you need something filling that won’t break your carb limit.
12. Keto Pretzel Bites
Keto pretzel bites are a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pretzels. They’re soft, chewy, and perfect for satisfying your snack cravings without the carbs.
You can make these tasty treats with just a few simple ingredients and no yeast is required. The whole process takes less than 15 minutes, making them a quick and easy addition to your keto menu.
Serve your pretzel bites with a side of cheese sauce for dipping. One serving of about 8 bites with cheese dip contains less than 5 net carbs.
These pretzel bites are great for fighting off sugar cravings while staying on track with your keto diet.
13. Air Fried Zucchini Crisps
Air fried zucchini crisps are a perfect keto-friendly alternative to traditional fries or chips. They’re crispy, crunchy, and incredibly flavorful without the need for breadcrumbs.
To make these tasty treats, simply slice zucchini into thin rounds or sticks. Coat them with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and your favorite low-carb seasonings.
Pop them in your air fryer for a few minutes until golden brown and crispy. The result is a delicious snack or side dish that’s both low in carbs and high in satisfaction.
These zucchini crisps are versatile too. You can enjoy them on their own, with a keto-friendly dip, or as a side to your main meal.
14. Zoodle Salad
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” make a perfect base for a refreshing keto-friendly salad. They offer a light, crisp texture while keeping carbs extremely low.
You can prepare zoodles using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler. For the best texture, don’t cook them—raw zoodles maintain their crunch and prevent your salad from becoming soggy.
A simple zoodle salad might include cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon pieces, and a light olive oil dressing. You can also add avocado, feta cheese, or grilled chicken to make it more substantial.
This versatile dish works well as either a side or a light main meal. It’s particularly refreshing during warmer months when you want something cool and easy to prepare.
15. Roasted Mini Bell Peppers
Roasted mini bell peppers make a perfect keto side dish that’s both colorful and flavorful. These tiny peppers contain fewer carbs than their larger counterparts while still offering that sweet pepper taste.
To prepare them, simply toss mini bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can add garlic and Parmesan for extra flavor if desired. The entire prep takes about a minute.
Roast them in the oven until they’re tender and slightly charred at the edges. The cooking process brings out their natural sweetness.
This side dish is ready in about 30 minutes total, with minimal hands-on time. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats or fish for a complete keto meal.
16. Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms make excellent keto-friendly vessels for delicious fillings. These large mushroom caps can transform into satisfying side dishes that complement any main course.
You can stuff portobellos with various keto ingredients like Italian sausage, mixed vegetables, or cheese combinations.
Popular fillings include Cheddar cheese, sour cream, scallions, and bacon—similar to a stuffed potato but without the carbs.
For a vegetarian option, try filling them with smaller mushrooms, zucchini, arugula, and feta cheese. The meaty texture of portobellos provides a substantial base that satisfies even hearty appetites.
They’re quick to prepare and can be customized based on your preference. Simply remove the stems, fill with your chosen ingredients, and bake until tender.
17. Parmesan Garlic Mushrooms
Parmesan garlic mushrooms are an excellent keto-friendly side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. They’re rich in flavor while being naturally low in carbs.
To make this dish, simply coat mushrooms with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese before roasting them in the oven until golden brown. The cooking process brings out the natural flavors of the mushrooms.
These savory mushrooms can be served on their own as a side dish or used as a topping for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. With only about 8g of carbs per serving, they fit perfectly into your keto meal plan.
You can also add bacon to create a creamier, more indulgent version that works as either a side or main dish.
18. Keto Avocado Salad
Avocado salad is a perfect keto side dish packed with healthy fats and fiber. This simple combination features creamy avocados as the star ingredient, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
You can easily customize your keto avocado salad by adding cucumber for crunch and freshness. A simple dressing of lime juice, olive oil, and salt enhances the natural flavors without adding carbs.
For extra protein, consider adding feta cheese or cooked bacon bits. Some people enjoy mixing in a small amount of diced red onion or bell peppers for color and flavor contrast.
This versatile side pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light lunch option on hot days.
19. Sautéed Squash
Sautéed squash makes a perfect keto side dish that’s quick to prepare with minimal ingredients. Yellow squash and zucchini are the stars of this low-carb option.
Simply slice your squash and cook it in olive oil with some diced onions for added flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like thyme or basil.
This versatile side dish pairs well with nearly any keto main course. For extra richness, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Keep the cooking time brief to maintain a slight crunch in your squash. Overcooking can make it mushy and less appealing.
20. Halloumi Fries
Halloumi cheese makes fantastic keto-friendly fries that don’t lack flavor or satisfaction. With almost no carbs and plenty of protein and fat, these are perfect for your keto meal plan.
To make halloumi fries, simply cut the cheese into sticks and pan-fry for a few minutes until golden. The cheese won’t melt but will become crispy on the outside and soft inside.
You can season your halloumi fries with za’atar for a Middle Eastern flavor or try other spice combinations like paprika or chili powder for some heat.
These make a great side dish or appetizer that’s both filling and delicious without the carbs.
21. Radish au Gratin
Radish au gratin is a clever keto alternative to potato gratin. Radishes lose their peppery bite when cooked, taking on a mild flavor similar to potatoes.
To make this dish, peel and slice daikon radish or regular radishes. Season them with salt and layer in a baking dish.
Pour heavy cream over the radishes and add your favorite cheeses like smoked gouda or cheddar. Some recipes include garlic, dijon mustard, and sour cream for extra flavor.
Bake until the radishes are tender and the top is golden brown. This creamy, cheesy side dish pairs perfectly with any keto main course.
Understanding Keto Side Dishes
Keto side dishes play a crucial role in maintaining the proper macronutrient balance while adding variety to your meals. They help you stay within your daily carb limits while providing essential nutrients and satisfaction to your dining experience.
Nutritional Importance
Keto side dishes must be low in carbohydrates while providing adequate fat and moderate protein. This balance helps maintain ketosis, the metabolic state where your body burns fat for energy instead of glucose.
The ideal keto side dish contains fewer than 5-10 grams of net carbs per serving. Net carbs are calculated by subtracting fiber from total carbohydrates, as fiber doesn’t significantly impact blood sugar levels.
Side dishes on a keto diet serve important nutritional purposes beyond just complementing your main course. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that might be lacking in protein-heavy main dishes.
By choosing nutrient-dense side dishes like leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables, you ensure your body receives micronutrients necessary for optimal health while staying in ketosis.
Common Ingredients Used
Vegetables form the foundation of most keto side dishes, particularly non-starchy options like cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini, spinach, and asparagus. These vegetables are versatile and can be prepared in numerous ways.
Popular keto side dish ingredients:
- Cauliflower (as rice, mashed “potatoes,” or roasted)
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce)
- Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussels sprouts)
- Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, butter)
- Cheese varieties (cream cheese, cheddar, parmesan)
Herbs and spices add flavor without carbs. Garlic, basil, rosemary, and paprika enhance dishes without compromising ketosis.
Dairy products like heavy cream, sour cream, and various cheeses add richness and fat content to sides, helping meet your daily fat requirements while keeping you satisfied.
Pairing Keto Side Dishes with Main Courses
The perfect keto meal balances flavors and nutrients while staying within your carb limits. Thoughtful pairing can transform simple ingredients into satisfying meals that keep you on track with your keto lifestyle.
Balancing Flavor Profiles
When pairing keto sides with main dishes, consider complementary flavors.
Rich, fatty meats like ribeye steak pair well with lighter sides such as roasted asparagus or a simple green salad with vinaigrette.
For chicken dishes, try creamy sides like cauliflower mash or cheesy broccoli to add richness. Fish benefits from bright, acidic companions such as lemon-garlic green beans or a cucumber salad with dill.
Flavor Pairing Guidelines:
- Spicy mains → cooling sides like cucumber salad or avocado
- Mild proteins → bold sides with garlic, herbs, or cheese
- Savory beef → mushrooms, roasted Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower gratin
- Delicate fish → light sides with citrus or fresh herbs
Don’t be afraid to use contrast. A tangy side dish can cut through the richness of fatty cuts, creating balance.
Creating a Well-Rounded Meal
A complete keto meal should include protein, healthy fats, and low-carb vegetables. Aim for visual appeal with different colors and textures on your plate.
For texture variety, pair soft main dishes with crunchy sides.
Roasted chicken goes well with crispy roasted radishes or jicama fries. Tender fish pairs nicely with a crunchy slaw.
Nutrient Balance Tips:
- Include at least one green vegetable for micronutrients
- Add high-fat components like cheese, nuts, or olive oil to increase satiety
- Consider the total carb count of your full meal, not just individual components
Think about cooking methods too.
If your oven is occupied with a roast, plan stovetop sides like sautéed spinach or pan-fried zucchini to make preparation easier.
Batch-prep versatile sides like cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables that work with multiple proteins throughout the week.
