Keto diets focus on low-carb, high-fat foods. This can make choosing side dishes tricky.

But don’t worry – there are many tasty keto-friendly options to pair with your meals.

You can enjoy a wide variety of keto side dishes that are both delicious and satisfying.

From veggie-based sides to cheesy casseroles, you’ll find options to suit different tastes and cooking styles.

These dishes can add flavor and nutrition to your keto meals without breaking your carb budget.

1. Cauliflower Mash

Cauliflower mash is a tasty low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. It’s creamy, buttery, and perfect for your keto diet.

To make it, steam cauliflower florets until tender. Drain well and blend with butter, cream cheese, and garlic.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For extra flavor, mix in herbs like chives or parsley.

This side dish pairs well with many main courses. It’s quick to prepare and can be ready in about 15 minutes.

Try adding grated cheese for a richer version. Cauliflower mash is versatile and can be customized to your liking.

2. Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles, often called zoodles, are a great low-carb alternative to pasta. You can make them easily with a spiralizer or vegetable peeler.

To cook zucchini noodles, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add some ghee or olive oil and cook the noodles for 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become mushy.

You can top your zoodles with various sauces and proteins.

Try them with garlic mushrooms and bacon for a rich flavor. Or pair them with scallops for a seafood twist.

Zucchini noodles also work well in cold dishes. Make a caprese salad with zoodles, tomatoes, mozzarella, and pesto for a refreshing keto side.

3. Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto

Asparagus wrapped in prosciutto is a tasty keto-friendly side dish. It’s easy to make and looks fancy on your plate.

To prepare, wrap each asparagus spear with a thin slice of prosciutto. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes. The prosciutto will turn crispy and the asparagus will be tender.

For extra flavor, you can add a small amount of cream cheese or goat cheese before wrapping. This adds a creamy texture to the dish.

This side dish is perfect for holidays or special dinners. It’s low in carbs but high in flavor, making it ideal for your keto meal plan.

4. Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Broccoli cheese casserole is a tasty keto side dish that’s easy to make. It combines tender broccoli with a rich, creamy cheese sauce.

To make it, steam broccoli until crisp-tender. Mix cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar with spices like garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine the cheese mixture with the broccoli and spread it in a baking dish. Top with more cheese and bake until hot and bubbly.

This casserole is filling and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. You can prep it ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.

5. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts with bacon is a tasty keto side dish. You can make it in the oven or air fryer.

Start by cutting bacon into small pieces and cooking until crispy.

Next, prepare your Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add them to the pan with the bacon.

Cook the sprouts for about 20-30 minutes until they’re crispy and charred.

For extra flavor, add garlic and spices like paprika or red pepper flakes.

This dish is low in carbs and high in flavor. It’s perfect for holiday meals or weeknight dinners.

6. Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Garlic butter mushrooms are a tasty keto side dish you can make in just 15 minutes. They’re perfect with steak or chicken.

You’ll need mushrooms, butter, garlic, and herbs like thyme.

Clean and slice the mushrooms. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for a minute. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until they’re tender.

Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.

These mushrooms are low in carbs but high in flavor. They’re also gluten-free and work for paleo and Whole30 diets.

7. Cheesy Spinach Bake

This keto-friendly side dish is a crowd-pleaser. You’ll love the creamy, cheesy goodness packed with nutrient-rich spinach.

To make it, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Sauté some onions in olive oil, then add spinach and cook until wilted.

In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, sour cream, and heavy cream. Combine this with the spinach mixture. Pour everything into a baking dish.

Bake for about 35-40 minutes until the edges turn golden and the center sets.

The result is a bubbling, cheesy delight that fits perfectly into your keto meal plan.

8. Parmesan Roasted Green Beans

Parmesan roasted green beans are a tasty keto side dish. They’re easy to make and full of flavor.

You’ll need fresh green beans, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Preheat your oven to 425°F.

Toss the green beans with olive oil and seasonings in a bowl. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the beans. Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through. The beans should be tender and lightly browned.

This side dish is low in carbs but high in nutrients. It goes well with many keto main courses. You can adjust the cooking time to get your preferred level of crispness.

9. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a tasty keto side dish that’s easy to make. You wrap each asparagus spear in bacon before cooking. This adds flavor and fat to the vegetable.

You can cook bacon-wrapped asparagus in different ways. Try grilling, air frying, or roasting in the oven. Each method gives a slightly different taste and texture.

For extra flavor, brush the asparagus with a sugar-free glaze before cooking. This adds sweetness that balances the salty bacon. You can use herbs or spices to change up the taste too.

This dish works well for everyday meals or special occasions. It’s quick to prepare and looks impressive on the plate. Plus, it fits perfectly into a keto diet plan.

10. Riced Cauliflower Pilaf

Riced cauliflower pilaf is a tasty keto side dish that’s easy to make. It’s a great low-carb swap for traditional rice pilaf.

To make it, sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft. Add riced cauliflower and cook until tender.

You can add flavor with chicken stock, herbs, and spices. Some recipes include peas, mushrooms, or nuts for extra texture.

This versatile dish pairs well with many main courses. It’s quick to prepare and can be customized to your taste preferences.

Try adding different vegetables or seasonings to create your own unique version of cauliflower rice pilaf.

11. Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers

Keto stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and filling side dish for your low-carb meals. You can make them with colorful bell peppers cut in half and filled with a savory mixture.

The filling often includes ground beef, cauliflower rice, and cheese. You can season it with taco spices like chili powder, paprika, and cumin for extra flavor.

These stuffed peppers are easy to customize. Try using different meats or adding vegetables to the filling. You can even make a breakfast version with eggs and bacon.

Serve your keto stuffed peppers with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They’re great on their own too, as they contain protein, fats, and fiber to keep you satisfied.

12. Crispy Zucchini Fries

Crispy zucchini fries are a tasty keto-friendly side dish. To make them, cut zucchini into thin strips and coat them in a mixture of almond flour, Parmesan cheese, and spices.

Dip the zucchini strips in beaten egg, then roll them in the almond flour mixture. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the zucchini fries at 425°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy. For extra crunch, you can use an air fryer instead.

These low-carb fries are a great alternative to potato fries. They’re crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing or your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce.

13. Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a tasty keto-friendly side dish. You can make it by slicing eggplant into rounds and coating them with almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.

Season the eggplant slices with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dip them in beaten egg, then coat with almond flour and Parmesan cheese.

Bake the coated eggplant slices until golden. Layer them in a dish with low-carb marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Bake again until the cheese melts and bubbles. This dish gives you the flavors of traditional Eggplant Parmesan without the extra carbs.

14. Garlic Roasted Kale

Garlic roasted kale is a tasty and simple keto side dish. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Wash and dry a bunch of kale, then remove the stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Toss the kale with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Spread the seasoned kale on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 10-15 minutes, until the edges are crispy but not burnt.

The result is a crispy, garlicky snack that’s packed with nutrients and low in carbs. You can customize the flavor by adding lemon juice or your favorite spices before roasting.

15. Avocado Greek Salad

Avocado Greek salad puts a keto-friendly spin on a classic dish. You’ll love this refreshing mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado chunks.

Add some tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and sliced red onions for extra flavor. Toss everything in a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.

This salad is perfect for hot summer days or as a light side dish. It’s packed with healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil. The low-carb veggies keep it keto-friendly.

You can easily customize this salad to your tastes. Try adding some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Fresh herbs like mint or basil also work well.

16. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Buffalo cauliflower bites are a tasty keto-friendly side dish. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor.

To prepare, preheat your oven to 450°F. Cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets.

Toss the florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Roast for about 25 minutes, until the edges start to brown. While they’re cooking, mix melted butter with buffalo sauce.

Brush the sauce over the cauliflower and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes. The result is spicy, crispy bites that satisfy your buffalo wing cravings.

17. Cheddar Jalapeño Biscuits

These keto-friendly biscuits are a tasty side dish option. They’re made with almond flour instead of regular flour to keep carbs low.

You’ll mix almond flour, baking powder, and spices. Then add eggs, sour cream, and melted butter. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños for flavor and heat.

Form the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

These biscuits are great with soups or as a snack. They have about 3g net carbs each, fitting nicely into a keto diet.

18. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms

Spinach and feta stuffed mushrooms make a tasty keto-friendly side dish. To prepare them, remove the stems from mushroom caps and scoop out some of the inside.

Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Mix the cooked vegetables with crumbled feta cheese, cream cheese, and herbs in a bowl.

Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the mushroom caps. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and cook in a preheated 375°F oven.

Bake for about 20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is hot. These savory bites are perfect for parties or as a side dish with your main meal.

19. Cabbage Stir-Fry

Cabbage stir-fry is a tasty and simple keto side dish. You can make it with just a few ingredients.

Start by heating some oil in a pan. Add sliced cabbage, onions, and garlic. Cook until the cabbage is soft.

For extra flavor, try adding ginger or red pepper flakes. You can also toss in some carrots or green onions.

To make it a full meal, add chicken, beef, or shrimp. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it keto-friendly.

This dish is quick to make and goes well with many main courses. It’s a great way to get more veggies into your keto diet.

20. Bacon Brussels Sprouts Slaw

This keto-friendly side dish combines crispy bacon with shredded Brussels sprouts.

It’s a tasty twist on traditional coleslaw. To make it, finely slice Brussels sprouts or use a food processor to shred them.

Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble it. Mix the shredded sprouts with the bacon in a bowl.

Add a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and your favorite keto-friendly seasonings. Toss everything together until well combined.

Let the slaw chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. This crunchy, savory slaw is perfect for barbecues or as a quick lunch option.

It keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

21. Garlic Mashed Turnips

Garlic mashed turnips are a tasty keto-friendly side dish. They’re a great low-carb replacement for mashed potatoes. To make them, boil diced turnips until soft, about 30 minutes.

Drain and let them steam dry for a few minutes. Mash the turnips and mix in butter, sour cream, and roasted garlic cloves.

Add salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can sauté some diced onions and herbs before adding them to the mash.

This creamy side dish pairs well with many keto main courses. It’s easy to make and full of flavor.

22. Butter-Braised Radishes

Radishes make a great low-carb side dish on keto. When cooked, they lose their spicy bite and become mild and tender. To prepare butter-braised radishes, trim and halve or quarter them depending on size.

Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the radishes and cook until they start to soften. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley.

Cook until the radishes are tender when pierced with a fork. The butter will brown slightly, adding a rich nutty flavor. This simple side dish has only 2 net carbs per serving.

It’s a tasty way to add more vegetables to your keto meals.

23. Cucumber Dill Salad

Cucumber dill salad is a refreshing keto side dish perfect for warm days. It’s easy to make and requires just a few ingredients. Start by thinly slicing cucumbers.

Mix them with salt and let them drain for about 20 minutes. This removes excess water and keeps the salad crisp. For the dressing, combine sour cream, fresh dill, white wine vinegar, and a sugar substitute.

Add a pinch of garlic for extra flavor. Mix the drained cucumbers with the creamy dressing.

Chill the salad before serving to let the flavors blend. You can add sliced onions or jalapenos for more kick if you like. This cool, tangy salad pairs well with grilled meats or fish.

It’s a great way to enjoy fresh summer produce while sticking to your keto diet.

24. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Cauliflower mac and cheese is a tasty keto-friendly twist on a classic comfort food. You’ll love this creamy, cheesy dish that’s low in carbs but high in flavor. To make it, start by steaming cauliflower florets until they’re fork-tender. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Next, prepare a rich cheese sauce using keto-approved ingredients. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and mix well. For extra flavor and crunch, top your cauliflower mac and cheese with crispy bacon bits.

Bake the dish in a 425°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly. This keto side dish is sure to satisfy your pasta cravings without the carbs.

It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

25. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

This tasty side dish is perfect for your keto meal plan. You’ll love the crispy edges and savory flavors of roasted broccoli with garlic and Parmesan. To make it, preheat your oven to 400°F.

Cut broccoli into florets and toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer.

Roast for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. In the last few minutes of cooking, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli.

The cheese will melt and create a delicious crust. This simple recipe is low in carbs and high in flavor.

It’s a great way to add more veggies to your keto diet.

26. Baked Cheese Crisps

Baked cheese crisps are a tasty, crunchy keto snack that’s easy to make at home. You only need cheese and an oven to create these crispy treats. To make them, preheat your oven to 375°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place small piles of shredded cheese on the sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.

Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the sheet. They’ll crisp up as they cool. You can use different types of cheese like cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella.

Add herbs or spices for extra flavor if you like. Enjoy your homemade cheese crisps plain or with dips.

27. Cauliflower Rice Risotto

Cauliflower rice risotto is a tasty low-carb side dish. It’s made with riced cauliflower instead of traditional rice. You can use frozen or fresh cauliflower rice as the base.

Cook it with garlic, broth, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy texture. Adding mushrooms gives extra flavor and richness.

This dish is quick to make, usually ready in about 15-30 minutes. Cauliflower risotto fits well with keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets.

It’s much lower in carbs than regular risotto. Serve it alongside chicken, shrimp, or other keto main dishes for a complete meal.

28. Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a tasty keto-friendly side dish. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with nutrients. You can make it easily at home with a few simple ingredients. Start by sautéing garlic in butter.

Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Next, mix in heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dish is low in carbs but high in fat, making it perfect for a keto diet. You can prepare it quickly on the stovetop. It pairs well with many main courses like steak or chicken.

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes. You can also use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available.

29. Spicy Keto Coleslaw

Spicy keto coleslaw adds a zesty kick to your low-carb meal. You can make it with a pre-made coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage. Mix mayo, apple cider vinegar, and a sugar-free sweetener for the dressing.

Add some heat with hot sauce or cayenne pepper to taste. For extra flavor and crunch, toss in sliced bell peppers, cilantro, and slivered almonds.

Sesame seeds are another tasty addition. Let the coleslaw chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely.

30. Rosemary Roasted Carrots

Rosemary roasted carrots are a tasty keto-friendly side dish. You can easily make them by tossing carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh rosemary. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Spread the seasoned carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them for about 20-30 minutes until they’re tender and lightly browned.

For a flavor boost, you can add a small amount of sugar-free maple syrup or butter. This will create a delicious glaze without adding extra carbs. These carrots are versatile and pair well with many main dishes.

They’re perfect for holidays or everyday meals. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients while being low in carbs.

Understanding Keto Side Dishes

Keto side dishes are low-carb options that fit into a ketogenic diet. They focus on high-fat, moderate-protein ingredients while limiting carbohydrates. These sides help you stay in ketosis and enjoy tasty meals.

Nutritional Benefits

Keto side dishes offer many health perks. They’re often high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you full. Many are rich in vitamins and minerals from non-starchy veggies. These sides also provide healthy fats, which are key for keto diets.

You’ll find keto sides can help balance blood sugar levels. They’re low in carbs, so they don’t cause big spikes in glucose. This can be good for weight control and overall health.

Some keto sides boost your intake of antioxidants. These fight harmful free radicals in your body. Leafy greens and colorful veggies are great sources.

Common Ingredients

Keto side dishes use a variety of low-carb foods. Vegetables are stars in many recipes. You’ll see cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini, and leafy greens often.

Healthy fats are big in keto cooking. Avocados, olive oil, and nuts are common. Cheese and cream also show up in many dishes.

Herbs and spices add flavor without carbs. Garlic, basil, and oregano are popular choices. Salt and pepper are basics in most recipes.

Some keto sides include small amounts of berries. These fruits are lower in carbs than others. Lemon juice is also used for a tangy kick.

Pairing Keto Side Dishes

Choosing the right keto side dishes can elevate your meals. The key is to match flavors and textures that complement your main course.

Main Dishes Complements

Pair creamy sides with grilled meats. Cauliflower mash goes well with steak or chicken. For fish, try roasted asparagus or zucchini noodles.

With pork chops, serve sautéed mushrooms or Brussels sprouts. Salmon pairs nicely with a crisp salad or roasted broccoli.

For beef dishes, consider garlic green beans or cheesy cauliflower rice. Chicken works well with nearly any veggie side, like roasted bell peppers or spinach.

Remember to balance textures. If your main is soft, add a crunchy side like keto coleslaw or roasted nuts.

Flavor Profiles

Match flavors to create a cohesive meal.

For Italian-inspired mains, use sides with herbs like basil or oregano.

With Mexican dishes, try cauliflower rice with cilantro and lime.

Asian-inspired meals pair well with ginger and garlic in your sides.

For Greek flavors, use lemon, oregano, and feta in your veggie sides.

French-inspired mains go well with herbs like thyme or tarragon.

Don’t forget about seasonings.

If your main is spicy, balance it with a cool, creamy side.

For milder mains, you can add bolder flavors to your sides.