These low-carb sides prove you can keep things light without losing any satisfaction. From roasted vegetables to clever veggie swaps and flavorful skillet favorites, each recipe delivers big taste with fewer carbs. Whether you’re pairing them with a main dish or enjoying them on their own, these sides make eating smart feel easy and delicious.

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Hands holding a white bowl of cauliflower mac and cheese garnished with chopped herbs.
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

This low-carb cauliflower mac and cheese delivers all the creamy, cheesy comfort of the classic dish without the pasta. It comes together in just 15 minutes using simple ingredients. The sauce coats the tender cauliflower perfectly, making each bite rich and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food while keeping things lighter.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Air Fryer Parmesan Asparagus (Keto & Gluten Free)

Air Fryer Parmesan Asparagus (Keto & Gluten Free) on a white plate with parmesan cheese.
Air Fryer Parmesan Asparagus (Keto & Gluten Free). Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

This air fryer asparagus cooks quickly into crisp-tender perfection with minimal prep. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds savory richness that makes the dish extra delicious. It’s ready in just 7 minutes, making it ideal for fast dinners. This low-carb, gluten-free side easily complements any protein.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parmesan Asparagus (Keto & Gluten Free)

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.

This quick cast iron Brussels sprouts dish pairs crispy sprouts with savory bacon for a flavorful side. With only five ingredients, prep and cleanup are incredibly simple. The cast iron skillet helps the sprouts develop a perfect golden crust. It’s a reliable go-to for busy nights or last-minute meals.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash on a white plate with parsley, salt, and pepper.
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Air fryer spaghetti squash is a tasty, low-carb alternative to pasta that cooks in under 20 minutes. The air fryer helps the squash strands become perfectly tender and slightly caramelized. It’s ideal for keto, paleo, or gluten-free meals. Easy, versatile, and great with your favorite sauces.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Easy Blackstone Broccoli Recipe

Easy Blackstone Broccoli Recipe in a white bowl with a spoon.
Easy Blackstone Broccoli Recipe. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

This Blackstone broccoli recipe creates tender, flavorful broccoli in just minutes. The griddle adds a slight char that enhances the natural taste of the vegetable. It’s a great low-carb side that pairs effortlessly with many proteins. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare on the flat top.
Get the Recipe: Easy Blackstone Broccoli 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.

Air fryer peppers and onions turn sweet, soft, and flavorful in just about 10 minutes. This method brings out their natural sweetness while keeping prep minimal. They’re a versatile low-effort side that works with tacos, bowls, sandwiches, or proteins. The perfect choice for quick and colorful meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peppers and Onions

Blackstone Green Beans

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

These Blackstone green beans require only a handful of ingredients and cook in just 10 minutes. The high heat gives them a deliciously crisp-tender texture. They’re a flavorful low-carb side that fits easily into any meal. Simple, fast, and always satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Green Beans

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.

These air fryer radishes cook up tender with a lightly crisp exterior, offering a fun low-carb alternative to roasted potatoes. They require just a few ingredients and minimal time. Their bright color also adds a nice pop to any plate. It’s a simple, healthy side dish with unexpected flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Radishes

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.

These Blackstone Brussels sprouts with bacon deliver bold, savory flavor with an irresistible char from the griddle. The sprouts crisp up beautifully while the bacon adds richness. It’s a simple yet impressive side dish for any meal. The whole family will love this easy recipe.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower

Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower in a white bowl with butter, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

This cheesy Instant Pot mashed cauliflower is rich, creamy, and full of savory garlic flavor. It’s a great low-carb replacement for traditional mashed potatoes. The Instant Pot makes preparation fast and hands-off. It’s a delicious, comforting side that pairs with countless mains.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus on foil with parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

This roasted garlic Parmesan asparagus is a quick and flavorful side dish that uses simple pantry ingredients. The asparagus roasts until tender and lightly crisp at the tips. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a savory finish. It’s easy to prepare and pairs well with nearly any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle

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

These Blackstone zucchini slices cook quickly and develop a lightly charred, tender texture. They make a healthy, low-carb side dish with minimal ingredients. The flavor is simple yet satisfying, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or seafood. A fast and nutritious option for weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle

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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