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Flavor-forward vegetables, clever swaps, and simple seasonings prove you don’t need heavy starches to feel full. Crisp roasts, fresh salads, and cheesy bakes keep things exciting while staying lighter. Portions still feel generous thanks to fiber and texture. A great fit for anyone watching carbs but not willing to give up comfort.

Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower (Keto & Gluten Free)

Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower in a white bowl with a spoon, parsley, butter, salt, and black pepper.
Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower (Keto & Gluten Free). Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.
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Creamy mashed cauliflower delivers buttery comfort without the extra carbs. Instant Pot cooking keeps prep fast and cleanup simple. Smooth texture makes it a satisfying potato alternative. A healthy side dish that fits keto and gluten-free lifestyles.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower (Keto & Gluten Free)

IP Parmesan Asparagus Recipe

Asparagus on a black plate with parmesan cheese.
IP Parmesan Asparagus Recipe. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Tender asparagus steams perfectly in just minutes using the Instant Pot. Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy finish without extra fuss. Short cook time keeps flavors fresh and vibrant. An easy side for weeknight meals or special dinners.
Get the Recipe: IP Parmesan Asparagus Recipe

Air Fryer Peppers and Onions

Air Fryer Peppers and Onions in an air fryer basket.
Air Fryer Peppers and Onions. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Sweet peppers and onions soften and caramelize beautifully in the air fryer. Bold flavor develops in about 10 minutes with minimal effort. Simple ingredients keep prep quick and stress-free. A versatile side for fajitas, bowls, or sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peppers and Onions

Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Sauteed Cast Iron Brussels Sprouts with Bacon in a white bowl with red pepper flakes, a spoon, and a fork.
Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Brussels sprouts cook quickly in a cast iron skillet with crispy bacon for bold flavor. Only five ingredients keep preparation effortless. High heat creates caramelized edges and savory depth. A simple side dish perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

A plate of spaghetti squash topped with tomato sauce, shredded cheese, and basil makes a perfect choice for healthy side dishes. A half squash with strands is in the background, with a fork on the side.
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Spaghetti squash transforms into tender, noodle-like strands in about 30 minutes. Air fryer cooking saves time compared to oven baking. Naturally gluten-free and low in calories. A nutritious pasta alternative for lighter meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Blackstone Green Beans

Blackstone Green Beans with pepper and salt in a white bowl with a spoon.
Blackstone Green Beans. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Fresh green beans cook fast on the griddle with only five simple ingredients. High heat delivers tender texture with lightly crisp edges. Low-carb ingredients make the dish keto-friendly. A quick side ready in about 10 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Green Beans

Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle

Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle on a white plate.
Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Zucchini cooks evenly on the griddle until tender with lightly crisp edges. Simple seasoning keeps flavors clean and fresh. Low-carb ingredients suit keto and paleo diets. A quick, healthy addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle

Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Blackstone Brussel Spouts with bacon in a white bowl with a fork.
Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully on the griddle alongside smoky bacon. High heat enhances flavor while keeping prep simple. Savory bites appeal to the whole family. A hearty side dish that pairs well with many mains.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

air fryer broccoli and cauliflower on a white plate with a pink linen and thyme.
Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Broccoli and cauliflower roast to crisp-tender perfection in the air fryer. No oven preheating needed for fast cooking. Simple seasoning highlights natural vegetable flavor. A reliable side for any weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

Air Fryer Radishes

Air Fryer Radishes with parsley, salt, and pepper in a white bowl with a spoon.
Air Fryer Radishes. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Radishes soften and lightly crisp in the air fryer with very little effort. Low-carb and low-calorie ingredients keep the dish light. Bright color adds visual appeal to the plate. A simple side made with just a few pantry staples.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Radishes

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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