I Threw Together 17 Low Carb Sides and Still Had Time To Sit Down

Dinner sides can eat up the whole evening, but these 17 low-carb options kept things easy. They came together quickly and still left time to actually sit down. Plates looked full, everyone was happy, and the kitchen stayed calm. That’s the kind of night worth repeating.

A plate of sautéed colorful bell peppers seasoned with herbs and spices.
Air Fryer Bell Peppers. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A staple that’s always dependable, this mix combines tender bites with crisp greens. Chicken Caesar Salad brings balance to every bite while being easy to prep. It’s a quick side that doesn’t steal time or attention. Perfect for adding solid protein to your plate without overcomplicating your list.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus spears served on a plate with two charred lemon halves.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hosting guests or just adding variety to your dinner? Grilled Asparagus brings smoky notes and a satisfying bite to your table. Light yet rich in flavor, it pairs well with whatever you’re serving. Plus, it’s super low-carb and easy on prep time!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Inspired by fast food but tailored to your needs, this dish knows how to work with fewer carbs. Copycat Big Mac Salad delivers the iconic layers and flavors in a lighter way. You get the feel without the effort or heaviness. It’s like indulging but on your terms while keeping things easy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini slices garnished with chopped herbs on a light-colored plate.
Grilled Zucchini. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crisp on the outside with a tender bite inside, this side keeps things quick and clean. Grilled Zucchini brings effortless grilling to fresh vegetables that pair well with nearly anything. It’s versatile, easy, and doesn’t fight for attention at your meal. Perfect for when simple still needs to be tasty without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Cowboy Caviar

Close-up of a mixed salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, black beans, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and parsley, being drizzled with dressing.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Packed with crunch and a mix of fun textures, it’s a simple classic for gatherings. Cowboy Caviar offers a quick way to brighten your plate without heavy carbs. It feels fresh every time you make it. If variety excites you, this side delivers without making extra work.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for something creamy without the carbs? Hashbrown Casserole brings bold comfort without taking forever to whip up. It’s an easy pick for potlucks or family dinners. You’ll be surprised how well this one fits into your low-carb goals.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light and refreshing, Mango Shrimp Salad breaks up the usual rotation with bold flavors. It’s protein-packed and has a nice tropical vibe to brighten your meal. Great for hot days or when you want something vibrant. Toss this into your weekly plans!
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A bright option that brings sharp contrasts to everything it touches, this side knows how to keep things quick. Pico de Gallo takes minimal effort and rewards you with layers of fresh texture. It’s perfect for pairing with nearly anything on the table. Great for when you need flavor without slowing down your rhythm.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme.
Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Want something hearty but low-carb? Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables brings colorful options to your table while keeping prep super easy. The roasting adds depth, making this an easy favorite for any meal. It’s simple, satisfying, and nutrient-packed.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Mediterranean Salad

A fresh salad with chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, red onion, feta cheese, black olives, and parsley on a bed of lettuce.
Mediterranean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Loaded with bold contrasts and quick assembly, this option combines textures in every bite. Mediterranean Salad feels both light and substantial enough to round out any meal. It’s a smart pick when you want variety packed into one bowl. Fresh, easy, and a common crowd pleaser with low carb in mind.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salad

Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Close-up of golden-brown air fryer mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley. The mushrooms appear perfectly cooked to a tender texture.
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Your air fryer saves the day with sides like Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms. This dish delivers bold bites with minimal effort, keeping cleanup simple. Add it to any meal for a rich, flavorful complement. Great for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Grilled Eggplant

Close-up of grilled eggplant slices garnished with chopped herbs and a glossy glaze.
Grilled Eggplant. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smoky flavor and soft texture make this veggie side easy without feeling plain. Grilled Eggplant brings balance and depth to your plate without piling up carbs. It’s quick to make, with that great char you get from grilling. It’s perfect for filling gaps where you need something light but impactful.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant

Broccoli Casserole

Someone serving broccoli casserole.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Need a creamy option for the table? Broccoli Casserole fits the bill with its veggie-packed goodness. It’s wholesome yet balances that indulgent vibe without carb-heavy fillers. Perfect for both carb counters and casserole enthusiasts alike.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice.
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A great protein option with flavorful bites that stand out amongst other sides is easy with Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. It’s a no-distraction side that fits in seamlessly with lighter or bolder meals. Everything about the skewers matches low carb practicality. Make them if you want, easy concepts that still feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

A plate of watermelon salad with cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and mint leaves, served with a lime wedge.
Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Want a refreshing twist for warm-weather meals? Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad makes a bright and fun addition to your side lineup. It’s light with a unique mix of textures that stands out. Easily shared or kept all to yourself, it’s hard to resist!
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kabobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mix it up with skewers that layer multiple textures and flavors without much mess or stress. Grilled Veggie Kabobs know how to showcase fresh items in bite-sized portions fit for nearly every plate. Perfect for parties or quick weekday solutions. Prep them because simple doesn’t mean boring anymore.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Air Fryer Bell Peppers

A plate of sautéed colorful bell peppers seasoned with herbs and spices.
Air Fryer Bell Peppers. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Need a side that’s both quick and tasty? Air Fryer Bell Peppers bring great flavor with just the right texture. Prep is simple, and they’re versatile enough to pair with almost anything. Dinner just got a little easier and less carb-loaded.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bell Peppers

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