15 Keto Side Dish Recipes to Try This Year in 2024

You’re likely no stranger to the keto diet’s emphasis on nutrient-dense foods, but finding inspiration for side dishes can be a challenge. This year, why not mix things up with some new recipes that are both delicious and keto-friendly?

From creamy, cheesy bites to roasted vegetables with a burst of citrus, there are plenty of options to explore. But which ones are worth trying? We’ve narrowed it down to the top 15 keto side dish recipes you should try in 2024 – and you might be surprised at just how easy it is to elevate your meals.

In A Nutshell

• Keto creamed spinach and cheesy broccoli bites offer delicious and nutritious low-carb options.
• Zucchinis and asparagus can be made into keto-friendly side dishes with added garlic flavor.
• Roasting asparagus with lemon is a simple, flavorful way to prepare this low-carb vegetable.
• Keto-friendly ingredients include full-fat cheese, cauliflower puree, and almond flour.
• Popular keto side dish recipes include spinach and artichoke bites, cauliflower gratin, and garlic herb cabbage.

Keto Creamed Spinach Recipe

In a low-carb diet like keto, incorporating nutrient-dense vegetables is crucial for maintaining peak health.

Spinach is an excellent choice, given its rich spinach nutrition profile. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.

When you’re on a keto diet, it’s imperative to prepare spinach in a way that complements its nutritional benefits without adding excess carbs.

A keto creamed spinach recipe is an excellent way to do this. By combining cooked spinach with a creamy sauce made from ingredients like heavy cream, butter, and cream cheese, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious.

There are many creamy variations to try, depending on your personal taste preferences. You can add garlic, lemon juice, or nutmeg to give the dish a unique flavor.

When making a keto creamed spinach recipe, be mindful of the ingredients you use and their carb counts to verify the dish stays within your daily keto limits.

Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Combining broccoli’s numerous health benefits with the rich flavor of cheese, you can create a keto side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.

To make Cheesy Broccoli Bites, you’ll start with proper broccoli prep. Rinse the broccoli under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Chop it into florets and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, and 1/4 cup of almond flour.

Mix well to confirm the broccoli is evenly coated with the cheesy mixture.

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

These Cheesy Broccoli Bites offer a tasty twist on traditional broccoli dishes, with the added bonus of being keto-friendly.

The cheesy twists in this recipe will make it a favorite among keto dieters and non-keto dieters alike.

Zucchini Fries With Garlic

Broccoli may have taken center stage with the previous keto side dish recipe, but zucchinis can now claim their spot as a low-carb, nutrient-rich alternative in Zucchini Fries With Garlic.

This keto side dish recipe is perfect for those who crave fried delights without the guilt. By using zucchinis, you’ll not only reduce your carb intake but also increase your fiber and vitamin C consumption.

To make Zucchini Fries With Garlic, you’ll need to slice zucchinis into thin strips, dip them in a mixture of almond flour and spices, and then fry them in a skillet with garlic.

The garlic variations in this recipe are endless, so feel free to experiment with different types of garlic, such as roasted or minced.

For an extra crispy coating, you can also add grated Parmesan cheese to the almond flour mixture.

This keto side dish recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

With its low-carb and nutrient-rich ingredients, Zucchini Fries With Garlic is a great addition to any keto meal.

Roasted Asparagus With Lemon

Beyond the domain of fried keto side dishes lies a world of flavorful, nutrient-dense options that don’t require a skillet.

Roasted asparagus with lemon is a great example of this. Asparagus benefits include being rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and folate. It’s also low in calories and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for a keto diet.

To make roasted asparagus with lemon, you’ll need a pound of fresh asparagus, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 lemon, and salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the asparagus in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.

Meanwhile, slice the lemon into wedges or thinly slice the peel for a more subtle flavor. You can also try lemon variations like lemon zest or lemon juice for added flavor.

Squeeze the lemon over the asparagus before serving. This side dish is perfect for any keto meal, providing a burst of citrus flavor and a boost of nutrients.

Cauliflower Gratin Recipe

Moving from the simplicity of roasted asparagus, you’ll now explore a richer, creamier side dish option with cauliflower gratin.

This keto-friendly dish is an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate low-carb vegetables into their meals.

To prepare the cauliflower, start by rinsing it and removing the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets and steam until slightly tender.

For this recipe, you’ll need 1 head of cauliflower, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Flavor enhancers such as garlic powder and paprika can be added to taste.

Combine the cooked cauliflower, butter, cheese, and heavy cream in a baking dish.

Sprinkle additional cheese on top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

When it comes to cauliflower prep, it is vital to not overcook the florets, as they can become mushy.

By following this recipe, you’ll achieve a delicious, creamy cauliflower gratin that’s perfect for a keto side dish.

The addition of flavor enhancers will take this dish to the next level, making it a great option for a low-carb meal.

Green Bean Almondine

Preparing a keto side dish with a delicate balance of flavors and textures can elevate any meal.

Green Bean Almondine is a dish that achieves this balance, bringing a touch of French flair to your keto table. This side dish is a perfect blend of crunchy green beans, toasted almonds, and a hint of garlic, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil.

To make Green Bean Almondine, you’ll need a pound of fresh green beans, 1/4 cup of sliced almonds, 2 cloves of garlic, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Start by blanching the green beans in boiling water until they’re tender but still crisp.

Meanwhile, toast the almonds in a skillet over medium heat until they’re fragrant and lightly browned.

In the same skillet, sauté the garlic until it’s softened, then add the blanched green beans and toss to combine.

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of toasted almonds and a drizzle of olive oil, which brings out the nutty flavor of the almonds.

This side dish is a keto-friendly way to add some crunch and flavor to your meals.

Keto Coleslaw Recipe

Add a refreshing twist to your keto diet with our Keto Coleslaw Recipe, a creamy and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for topping burgers, hot dogs, or enjoying as a standalone snack.

By using a combination of shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt, you’ll create a tangy and creamy slaw that’s low in carbs and high in flavor.

With only 5g of net carbs per serving, this recipe is a great way to satisfy your cravings for a crunchy and refreshing side dish without blowing your diet.

Plus, the addition of chopped onions, bell peppers, and a sprinkle of paprika adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Pan-Seared Mushrooms

Incorporating earthy pan-seared mushrooms into your keto diet can be a simple yet flavorful way to enhance any meal.

With various mushroom varieties to choose from, you can experiment with different flavors and textures. For a keto-friendly option, consider using cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms, which are low in carbs and rich in nutrients.

When cooking pan-seared mushrooms, it is crucial to use the right techniques to bring out their natural flavors.

Start by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms, then heat a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.

Use a gentle stirring motion to prevent breaking the mushrooms and promote even browning.

To add extra flavor, you can add aromatics like garlic, thyme, or rosemary to the skillet before cooking the mushrooms.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve as a side dish or add to your favorite keto recipes.

Low-Carb Mac and Cheese

Your macaroni cravings can be satisfied with a keto-friendly twist on a classic comfort food – Low-Carb Mac and Cheese.

This dish has a rich history, dating back to the 14th century when macaroni was first introduced to Italy.

Over time, it evolved into the creamy, cheesy pasta we’re familiar with today.

To make a low-carb version, you’ll need to substitute traditional macaroni with low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles, shirataki noodles, or spaghetti squash.

When it comes to cheese options, you have a variety to choose from.

Cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella are popular choices, but you can also experiment with other types like Gruyère, Gouda, or fontina.

A combination of cheeses will give your Low-Carb Mac and Cheese a rich, complex flavor.

Look for full-fat, unprocessed cheese to keep your dish keto-friendly.

Be mindful of the cheese’s moisture content, as it can affect the overall texture of the dish.

Baked Brussels Sprouts

Among the numerous keto side dish options, Baked Brussels Sprouts stand out for their simplicity and nutritional value.

As you consider incorporating this dish into your keto diet, you’ll appreciate its impressive Brussels sprouts nutrition profile.

A single serving of Baked Brussels Sprouts provides a rich source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

You’ll benefit from consuming Brussels sprouts due to their high content of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and potassium.

The numerous Brussels sprouts benefits include supporting immune function, promoting healthy digestion, and aiding in the reduction of inflammation.

Additionally, Brussels sprouts contain sulforaphane, a compound that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.

To prepare Baked Brussels Sprouts, you can simply toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and your choice of seasonings, then roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.

By incorporating this dish into your keto meal plan, you’ll not only add variety to your diet but also reap the rewards of its exceptional nutritional value.

With its ease of preparation and impressive health benefits, Baked Brussels Sprouts make a great addition to any keto meal.

Creamy Kale Side Dish

Dive into the world of keto side dishes with a nutrient-dense and delicious option: Creamy Kale Side Dish.

You can enjoy this low-carb dish while reaping the numerous kale benefits, including its high levels of vitamins A, C, and K. Kale is also rich in minerals and antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress.

When making a creamy kale side dish, you have various options to replace traditional high-carb ingredients.

You can use keto-friendly alternatives such as cauliflower puree, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Combine these ingredients with garlic, salt, and pepper for added flavor.

To make your creamy kale side dish, simply sauté chopped kale in a pan with some olive oil and garlic.

Then, add your creamy alternative and stir until well combined.

Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

This keto side dish is a great addition to your low-carb meals and will help you stay within your daily macros while still enjoying delicious flavors.

The combination of creamy sauce and nutrient-rich kale is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished.

Keto Corn Pudding Recipe

Replacing leafy greens like kale with rich and savory ingredients doesn’t have to mean compromising on a low-carb diet.

You can enjoy keto-friendly side dishes that are just as delicious as their high-carb counterparts. One option is a keto corn pudding recipe that captures the essence of Southern traditions.

This dish is perfect for those who want to indulge in the rich flavors of corn without breaking their diet.

Corn nutrition is often misunderstood, with many assuming it’s too high in carbs for a keto diet.

However, when consumed in moderation, corn can be a nutritious addition to your meals. A keto corn pudding recipe typically uses a small amount of corn, combined with ingredients like cream cheese, eggs, and almond flour.

These ingredients help reduce the carb content, making it a keto-friendly option. By incorporating this dish into your meal plan, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Southern traditions while staying on track with your low-carb diet.

This recipe is perfect for those who want to experience the best of both worlds – rich flavors and a healthy diet.

Roasted Bell Peppers

Several roasted bell pepper recipes can be adapted to fit a keto diet, offering a flavorful and nutritious side dish option.

When you roast bell peppers, the heat breaks down the cell walls, releasing natural sugars and intensifying the flavor. This process also enhances the roasted color, making the peppers more visually appealing.

To make roasted bell peppers keto-friendly, you can season them with herbs and spices instead of sugar or high-carb sauces.

Sweet peppers are an excellent choice for a keto diet, as they’re low in carbs and rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

A 100-gram serving of bell peppers contains only 6 grams of carbs, making them an ideal side dish for keto dieters. When roasting bell peppers, you can use any color you prefer, but red bell peppers tend to be sweeter and have a deeper flavor.

Simply place the peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.

Spinach and Artichoke Bites

As you explore keto side dish options, consider the versatility of spinach and artichoke bites, which can be easily adapted to fit your dietary needs.

These bite-sized treats combine the nutritional benefits of spinach with the unique flavor of artichokes. Artichokes have a rich history, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, where they were considered a delicacy.

Today, they’re a popular ingredient in many keto recipes.

Spinach, on the other hand, is packed with nutrients, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and K.

It’s also low in calories and rich in fiber, making it an excellent addition to a keto diet.

When combined with artichokes, spinach creates a delicious and healthy side dish that’s perfect for keto dieters.

To make spinach and artichoke bites, simply mix cooked spinach and artichoke hearts with cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then form into bite-sized balls and bake until golden brown.

This recipe is easy to customize to fit your keto needs, and it’s a great way to add some variety to your meal routine.

With its rich history and nutritional benefits, spinach and artichoke bites are a great keto side dish option.

Garlic and Herb Cabbage

When it comes to keto side dishes, you’re likely looking for options that aren’t only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Garlic and Herb Cabbage is an excellent choice, offering numerous cabbage benefits that make it an ideal addition to your keto diet. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, and it’s also a good source of fiber, which can help support digestive health.

To prepare Garlic and Herb Cabbage, start by selecting a fresh head of cabbage and removing the outer leaves. Slice the cabbage into thin wedges and separate the leaves.

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the cabbage until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. Add minced garlic and your choice of herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.

Using various cooking techniques, such as sautéing or roasting, can help bring out the natural sweetness in cabbage. By incorporating Garlic and Herb Cabbage into your keto meal plan, you’ll not only be enjoying a tasty side dish, but you’ll also be reaping the nutritional benefits of this versatile vegetable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Common Keto Diet Side Dish Mistakes to Avoid?

When following a keto diet, you’ll want to avoid common side dish mistakes, including Keto catastrophes like excessive sugar and unhealthy fats, and flavor failures that stem from a lack of creativity and spices in your dishes.

How Long Does a Typical Keto Side Dish Take to Prepare?

You can whip up a keto side dish in no time, often under 30 minutes, by utilizing keto shortcuts like pre-cut veggies and meal prep strategies, streamlining your cooking process while staying on track.

Are There Keto Side Dish Options Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans?

You’ll find plenty of vegan keto options that fit your plant-based lifestyle. Explore cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, and vegan keto “cheese” made from nuts or seeds, offering you diverse and satisfying plant-based options.

Can Keto Side Dishes Be Reheated or Frozen for Later?

You can easily reheat or freeze keto side dishes for later, making them perfect for meal prep. Implementing leftover strategies like portioning and labeling can help you efficiently store and reheat your keto creations.

What Keto Side Dishes Pair Well With Seafood Main Courses?

When pairing keto side dishes with seafood, you’ll find that options like zucchini noodles and cauliflower rice complement fish favorites like salmon and shrimp, while green beans and asparagus pair well with seafood’s delicate flavors.

FInal Verdict

You’ve now explored 15 keto side dish recipes to elevate your meals in 2024. These nutrient-dense options cater to various tastes, from creamy spinach to cheesy broccoli bites and zucchini fries.

By incorporating these recipes into your keto lifestyle, you’ll not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide your body with essential nutrients. Experiment with these dishes to find your favorites and maintain a balanced keto diet.