One of the best parts of summer is a good BBC, From that sizzling sound to the mouthwatering scent of grilled food and charcoal lingering together, there’s really nothing better. However, if you’re on a keto diet, finding the right foods to BBQ can be tough since many side dishes are often high in carbs. Lucky for you, we rounded up the best keto-friendly BBQ sides that are still low-carb and won’t put a dent in your diet.
1. Roasted butternut squash
You won’t miss potatoes one bit with this hearty and flavorful side. It’s sweet, crispy, and smoky thanks to the flavors that the BBQ in your main dish infuses. Top with some crumbled bacon, or fake bacon if you’re a vegetarian.
2. Greek salad
This light but satisfying salad dish screams summer, and a fresh bowl of salad is perfect for balancing out a main dish of BBQ fish, meat, or tofu. Greek salad contains juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and salty Kalamata olives, a tasty and nutritious treat for your taste buds and your waistline. Add some dill in there for an extra kick.
3. Cauliflower potato salad
Traditional potato salad is a barbecue classic, but since it’s packed with mayo and other carbs, we recommend opting for a low-carb cauliflower potato salad, which is a mix between a traditional egg salad and a potato salad. Others will be shocked that it includes cauliflower, which is delicious and nutritious.
4. Garlic mushrooms
Mushrooms aren’t for everyone, but those who don’t like them are seriously missing out. Since they have a meaty flavor themselves, all they need for seasoning is olive oil and a bit of garlic for a truly mouthwatering effect. Button mushrooms get crispy but plump when roasted, while portobello has more of a steak-like texture.
5. Broccoli salad
An alternative to boring broccoli and cheddar salad, this twist on a classic spruces up this usually bland vegetable. It’s much lower in carbs, and can be made with a creamy keto dressing, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon bits (vegan bacon bits also work) and pairs perfectly with a smoky BBQ main.
6. Mac and cheese
We know what you’re thinking – how can Mac and cheese be low-carb? By making it keto-friendly with a cauliflower base instead of pasta. Cheesy cauliflower is one of the most decadent comfort foods ever, and you won’t miss the elbow pasta at all. Indulge without guilt!
7. Coleslaw
Many people believe BBQs aren’t complete without a hefty pile of Cole slaw on the plate, and they’d be right. Use a pre-shredded Cole slaw mix and add in classic ingredients like mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard with a hint of celery salt and pepper.
8. Tuna salad
Refreshing but hearty, tuna salad rounds out any BBQ meal but is still light for those who are on a keto diet. It never slacks on flavor, and you can add some extra zing with additions like Dijon mustard, hot sauce, and fresh dill or cilantro. Tuna is a keto classic filled with healthy fats, nutrients, and protein, leaving you satisfied and without cravings.
9. Keto cherry tomato salad
Just like BBQs, cherry tomatoes are having a major summer moment. It can be served alongside any protein, like chicken, steak, fish, or even an Italian dish. Cherry tomatoes burst in your mouth with a sweet juiciness that full-size tomatoes can’t. Toss the tomatoes in red wine vinegar and balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Then top it all off with salt and pepper, and feel free to add your favorite herbs like basil, garlic, and oregano.
10. Italian pasta salad
Despite being made with real pasta, this low-carb option tastes just like a normal pasta salad and can even be served as a main on a non-BBQ night. The secret is using low-carb pasta instead of regular wheat pasta. Jazz this salad up with mozzarella, salami, veggies, and keto-dressing.