When it comes to cooking a delicious and healthy ketogenic meal, it’s easy to get stuck on the main event – the protein or the fat. But let’s not forget about the sides! A great keto side dish can elevate your meal from good to great, and provide a welcome respite from the richness of your main course. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering keto side dish recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic dishes like garlic parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts and cheesy cauliflower mash, to more innovative creations like zucchini noodles with pesto and bacon-wrapped asparagus, there’s something for everyone in this collection of easy-to-make and deliciously keto-friendly sides.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a flavorful masterpiece with this simple recipe. The perfect side dish for any occasion, these garlic parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Mash
A creamy and indulgent twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this Cheesy Cauliflower Mash is a perfect side dish for any meal. With the natural sweetness of cauliflower paired with the richness of cheddar cheese, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower, remove leaves and stem, and break into florets.
3. Toss with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet, roasting for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, puree the roasted cauliflower with cheddar cheese, heavy cream or half-and-half, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Transfer to a serving dish, top with additional grated cheddar cheese (if desired), and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Transform your favorite pasta dish into a healthier, flavorful option with this easy recipe for Zucchini Noodles with Pesto.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your spiralizer or mandoline to the “noodle” setting.
2. Cut the zucchinis into manageable pieces for spiralizing.
3. Spiralize the zucchini into noodle-like strands.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly softened.
6. Stir in the pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Add a smoky twist to this springtime favorite with our simple recipe. Crispy bacon and tender asparagus make for a delicious side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or lemon zest.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
7. Remove from oven and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto-Friendly Coleslaw
This keto-friendly coleslaw recipe is a low-carb spin on the traditional side dish. With its creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, it’s perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or serving as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise (make sure to choose a sugar-free option)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready to go straight away.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A creamy and addictive dip that’s perfect for parties or game day gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Cauliflower Casserole
Get ready to elevate your side dish game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious loaded cauliflower casserole! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower to the skillet; cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over cooked cauliflower and stir to combine.
5. Transfer cauliflower mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Avocado Cucumber Salad
Perfect for hot summer days, this light and revitalizing salad combines the creamy richness of avocados with the cooling crunch of cucumbers. With only a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and healthy snack in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado and sliced cucumber.
2. Add the thinly sliced red onion and toss gently to combine.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Bake
This creamy, cheesy broccoli bake is a perfect addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tasty side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with flour, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
5. Arrange broccoli in the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the broccoli.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Garlic Breadsticks
Satisfy your cravings without compromising your keto diet with these scrumptious garlic breadsticks, made with almond flour and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup melted butter (clarified or regular)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, Parmesan cheese, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add melted butter, garlic, and beaten egg to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
5. Cut into 6-8 equal pieces. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Roasted Radishes with Herbs
Roasted Radishes with Herbs Recipe
Roast radishes to bring out their natural sweetness and pair them with a blend of aromatic herbs for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of radishes (about 6-8)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim the radishes and cut them in half lengthwise.
3. In a large bowl, toss the radishes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the radishes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the radishes are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice
Transforming cauliflower into a convincing fried rice alternative has never been easier! This recipe uses simple techniques to create a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add the processed cauliflower, frozen vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe combines earthy portobello mushrooms with savory flavors and textures, making for a satisfying vegetarian main course or appetizer. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp cloth. Stuff each mushroom cap with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and sprinkle with balsamic vinegar (if using).
5. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto-Friendly Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this creamy, low-carb macaroni and cheese recipe that’s perfect for a keto lifestyle.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni (made from almond flour or coconut flour)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (make sure it’s a high-quality, full-fat option)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked macaroni.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean Almondine
This recipe combines the crunch of almonds with the tender sweetness of green beans, creating a tasty and easy-to-make side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5-7 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir for 1 minute.
5. Add the green beans to the skillet and toss with the almond mixture. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Zucchini Gratin
A flavorful and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. This Cheesy Zucchini Gratin is a delicious way to enjoy the taste of zucchini in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine zucchini slices, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss until the zucchini is evenly coated with the cheesy mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top of the zucchini.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Roasted Cauliflower
Elevate your snack game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of cauliflower with a spicy kick. This roasted cauliflower dish is perfect as a side or even as a crunchy topping for salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper until well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto-Friendly Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with this keto-friendly recipe, perfect for a low-carb snack or appetizer. These creamy, flavorful eggs are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise (make sure it’s sugar-free and full-fat)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chives or scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
3. In a bowl, mix together egg yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped dill and chives (if using).
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Place deviled eggs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover these 18 delicious keto side dish recipes that are easy to make and perfect for your low-carb lifestyle. From savory roasted vegetables like garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts and bacon-wrapped asparagus, to creative cauliflower dishes like cheesy mash and loaded casserole, there’s something for everyone. Plus, enjoy keto-friendly twists on classic favorites like coleslaw and mac and cheese, as well as healthy snacks like avocado cucumber salad and deviled eggs. Get ready to elevate your meal game with these mouthwatering recipes!
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