25 Keto Side Dishes for BBQ: Ultimate Summer Recipes

We all know that there’s nothing quite like gathering around the grill with friends and family during the warm summer months. But what are some keto-friendly BBQ sides for summer? Well, you’re in luck. Here are some mouthwatering list of low-carb, keto-approved side dishes that will not only make your BBQ feast a crowd-pleaser but also keep you on track with your ketogenic lifestyle.

Some of the recipes include: Cauliflower Potato Salad, Brussels Sprouts and Green Beans, Creamy Avocado Deviled Eggs, Tangy BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad, and Grilled Parmesan Zucchini.

A picturesque summer BBQ scene set against a backdrop of blue skies and vibrant nature. A red grill takes center stage, emanating warmth and anticipation. In the foreground, a field of yellow flowers adds a pop of color, while a charming brown picket fence frames the scene. The image captures the essence of a sunny outdoor gathering, evoking feelings of relaxation, joy, and the delicious aromas of grilled food

Whether you’re new to the keto diet or a seasoned veteran, we understand that finding delicious and easy-to-prepare low-carb recipes can be a challenge, especially when it comes to the traditional BBQ parties that we all love. The good news? BBQ and keto can coexist, and in fact, they can be a match made in culinary heaven. From fresh salads to grilled veggies and creative takes on classics, these keto side dishes will make your summer BBQs both healthy and spectacularly tasty.

Grab a free printable keto meal plan!

Ready to meet your new favorite BBQ companions? Read on and let’s dive into the flavors of summer, the keto way.

TABLE OF CONTENTS tap to hide

1 The Basics of Keto and BBQ

2 Transforming Traditional BBQ Parties with Keto-Friendly Side Dishes

3 The Best Keto Side Dish Recipes for Your Next BBQ

4 The Perfect Sides for your Main Course: Keto Side Dishes That Shine

5 These Best Keto BBQ Sides are Just the Beginning

The Basics of Keto and BBQ

Understanding the Keto Diet: More than just Low-Carb Recipes

The keto diet is more than just swapping out your favorite dishes with low-carb recipes. It’s about promoting a healthier lifestyle and transforming your relationship with food. By reducing your intake of carbs and increasing fats, your body enters a metabolic state known as ketosis, which promotes fat burning for energy.

Why a Summer BBQ is the Perfect Way to Feast on a Ketogenic Diet

A great summer BBQ has always been about the feast, the people, and, most importantly, the food. And the good news is, it’s also the perfect way you can enjoy this feast on a ketogenic diet. With the right recipes and ingredients, your usual BBQ can turn into a healthy, keto-friendly gathering. No freaking out or breaking your diet required!

Transforming Traditional BBQ Parties with Keto-Friendly Side Dishes

The Good News about Low-Carb BBQ: Keeping Taste Buds Happy

One of the best parts of a BBQ meal is undoubtedly the side dishes. For your next BBQ party, consider swapping out those traditional high-carb ingredients with low-carb substitutes. The good news is, there are plenty of flavorful and satisfying keto-friendly alternatives that will delight your taste buds and keep you feeling full without going over your daily carb limit.

Keto vs. Traditional Side Dishes: The Best Part of a BBQ Meal

Let’s face it, traditional side dishes like pasta salads, French fries, and potato salads are staples at any BBQ feast. But they are often loaded with carbs. So, what’s a keto dieter to do? Don’t fret. This is your chance to get creative and offer a delicious range of low-carb side dishes that are a welcome addition to any BBQ meal and will be a hit with the whole family.

The Best Keto Side Dish Recipes for Your Next BBQ

1. The Whole Family’s Favorite: Cauliflower Potato Salad

Vibrant cauliflower potato salad garnished with fresh dill, served in a rustic blue bowl against a clean white background, showcasing the appealing textures and healthy appeal of this keto-friendly dish

A healthy twist on the traditional potato salad, this cauliflower version is just as creamy and satisfying, without all the carbs.

Here’s how to make it: Steam one head Cauliflower until tender + let it cool. In a large bowl, combine Cauliflower + ½ cup Mayonnaise + ¼ cup Sour Cream + 1 tablespoon Mustard + chopped Celery + diced Red Onions + fresh Dill. Stir in a few hard-boiled Eggs and season with Salt + Pepper to taste. Chill for an hour before serving, your low-carb answer to the potato salad is ready.

2. Brussels Sprouts and Green Beans: A Fresh Take on BBQ Sides

Fresh, green Brussels sprouts and slender green beans showcased side by side in recyclable green paper containers at a local market, highlighting the organic and healthy produce available for purchase.

Bring some freshness and char to your BBQ with these grilled Brussels sprouts and green beans.

First, prepare your veggies: halve Brussels Sprouts + toss with Olive Oil + Salt + Pepper. Similarly, mix Green Beans with Olive Oil + Lemon Zest + Sea Salt. Grill both on medium heat until they’re charred and tender – a fresh, low-carb side dish packed with nutrients and flavors.

3. and 4. From Air Fryer to Instant Pot: Easy Low-Carb Recipes for Your Next Cookout

Your Air Fryer and Instant Pot can also serve up some fantastic keto-friendly sides.

For a delicious Air Fryer Asparagus, simply toss Asparagus in Olive Oil + Salt + Pepper, then air fry until crispy.

Bunch of fresh, green asparagus spears laid neatly next to sprigs of aromatic rosemary, emphasizing the natural, healthy, and vibrant ingredients ready for a flavorful keto-friendly meal preparation

For an Instant Pot Cauliflower Mac and Cheese, steam Cauliflower in your Instant Pot, then mix with Cream Cheese + Cheddar Cheese + a splash of Heavy Cream – it’s a low-carb alternative to the classic mac and cheese.

Delicious cauliflower mac and cheese in a casserole dish, showcasing the creamy, cheesy texture and golden-browned top, offering a low-carb, ketogenic twist on a traditional comfort food dish

5. Cream Cheese Cauliflower Rice: A Delicious Side Dish with Fewer Carbs

For a comforting side dish that’s rich and creamy but still low on carbs, try this Cream Cheese Cauliflower Rice.

Overhead shot of finely grated cauliflower rice presented in a white bowl with a sleek black outline around the rim, contrasted against fresh sprigs of parsley nearby, highlighting a healthy, keto-friendly alternative to traditional rice

Sauté riced Cauliflower in a skillet with Olive Oil until tender. Season with Salt + Pepper + a touch of Garlic Powder. Stir in Cream Cheese until it melts and mixes evenly with the cauliflower. Top it off with chopped Fresh Herbs, and you have a low-carb, creamy side dish ready in minutes.

6. Low-Carb Veggies Skewers: A Great Way to Add Freshness to your BBQ Feast

Vegetable skewers are a fun, colorful way to incorporate more veggies into your BBQ.

Colorful vegetable skewers with chunks of red bell pepper, white onion, juicy tomato, and earthy mushroom, arranged neatly on a rustic wooden tray lined with brown parchment paper, emphasizing a vibrant, healthy, and keto-friendly grilling option.

Cut Zucchini + Yellow Squash + Bell Peppers into chunks, then thread onto skewers with Cherry Tomatoes + Button Mushrooms. Brush with a mix of Olive Oil + minced Garlic + your favorite Herbs, then grill until tender and slightly charred – a delightful addition to your BBQ feast.

7. Creamy Avocado Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are always a crowd-pleaser, and this keto-friendly version is no exception.

Closeup shot of avocado bacon deviled eggs, highlighting the creamy avocado filling, topped with crispy bacon bits, inside halved egg whites, showcasing a delicious, keto-friendly twist on a classic appetizer

Here’s how to prepare them: Boil 8 Eggs until hard, cool, and peel. Cut in half lengthwise + scoop out yolks into a bowl. Combine yolks + 1 Avocado + 1 teaspoon Lime Juice + Salt + Pepper. Fill each egg white half with the avocado mixture and garnish with Paprika and Chives.

8. Cheddar-Stuffed Jalapenos Wrapped in Bacon

For a spicy, smoky, and cheesy side dish, these bacon-wrapped jalapenos are the way to go.

Scrumptious bacon-wrapped jalapenos sizzling on the grill, emphasizing the rich colors and textures of the bacon as it crisps up around the spicy peppers, portraying an enticing image of a keto-friendly BBQ treat.

Slice 12 Jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Fill with 1 cup Cream Cheese + 1 cup shredded Cheddar. Wrap each jalapeno half with a slice of Bacon. Grill until the bacon is crisp and the peppers are tender.

9. Keto-Friendly Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This creamy, cheesy spinach and artichoke dip is perfect for a summer BBQ.

Warm and gooey spinach and artichoke dip, garnished with melted cheese on top, in a rustic serving bowl, showcasing a creamy and inviting keto-friendly appetizer, perfect for pairing with low-carb snacks

In a bowl, combine 10 ounces thawed and drained Frozen Spinach + 1 can chopped Artichoke Hearts + 8 ounces Cream Cheese + ¼ cup Sour Cream + ¼ cup Mayonnaise + ½ cup Parmesan + 1 cup Mozzarella + 2 minced Garlic cloves + Salt + Pepper. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.

10. Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

These stuffed mini peppers are a colorful, tasty side dish.

Closeup view of vibrant mini bell peppers generously stuffed with creamy cheese, highlighting the contrast between the colorful peppers and the rich, white cream cheese filling, serving as a tempting, keto-friendly appetizer

Slice 1 pound Mini Bell Peppers in half and remove the seeds. Fill with a mixture of 8 ounces Cream Cheese + 1 cup shredded Cheddar + ¼ cup sliced Green Onions + 2 minced Garlic cloves. Bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

11. Keto-Friendly Cauliflower Hummus

This cauliflower hummus is a great low-carb dip for veggies or low-carb pita.

Smooth and creamy cauliflower hummus in a serving bowl, garnished with olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs, showcasing a healthy, keto-friendly alternative to traditional hummus, perfect for dipping with low-carb vegetables

Steam 1 head Cauliflower until tender. Blend with ¼ cup Tahini + ¼ cup Olive Oil + Juice of 1 Lemon + 2 minced Garlic cloves + ½ teaspoon Cumin + Salt to taste. This cauliflower hummus is creamy, tangy, and perfect for dipping.

12. Easy Keto Guacamole

This guacamole is a simple, delicious side dish that’s perfect for a summer BBQ.

Bowl of freshly made guacamole, featuring the vibrant green color and chunky texture of mashed avocados, garnished with a sprinkle of cilantro, offering a visual of this delicious, keto-friendly dip

Mash ripe 3 ripe Avocados. Mix with 1 medium diced Tomato + ¼ minced Onion + handful of Cilantro + Juice of 1 Lime + 1 minced Garlic clove + Salt + Pepper. This guacamole is creamy, tangy, and perfect for dipping or topping your favorite BBQ dishes.

The Perfect Sides for your Main Course: Keto Side Dishes That Shine

13. Mozzarella Caprese Salad: A Welcome Addition to Any BBQ Meal

Caprese Salad is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for a summer BBQ.

Elegant Caprese salad with layers of ripe, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella slices, drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil, showcasing a classic, keto-friendly Italian dish in all its vibrant colors and textures

Slice fresh Mozzarella + ripe Tomatoes, then arrange them on a plate with fresh Basil leaves. Drizzle with Olive Oil + Balsamic Reduction, then sprinkle with Salt + Pepper. It’s a refreshing, low-carb side dish that pairs well with any main course.

14. Refreshing Cucumber Salad: The Perfect Addition to your Summer BBQ

Cucumber salad is a refreshing, creamy side dish perfect for a hot summer day.

Crisp cucumber salad with thin cucumber slices and fresh dill, lightly dressed and served in a clear glass bowl, highlighting the refreshing, hydrating, and keto-friendly side dish, perfect for a hot summer day.

Slice Cucumbers thinly, then toss with Red Onion slices. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup Sour Cream + 1 tablespoon White Vinegar + 1 teaspoon Sugar-Free Sweetener until smooth. Pour over the cucumbers and onions, toss to combine, and chill before serving – a delicious way to cool down this summer.

15. Cauliflower Casserole

An appetizing cauliflower casserole dish, featuring a golden-brown crust and a creamy, cheesy interior. Fresh cauliflower florets are nestled in a rich sauce, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. The dish is topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and melted cheese, creating a delectable and comforting meal.

For Cauliflower Casserole, combine steamed Cauliflower + Cream Cheese + shredded Cheddar + Sour Cream + Green Onions + crispy Bacon, then bake until golden and bubbly – delicious, satisfying, and perfect for a BBQ feast.

16. Keto Broccoli and Bacon Salad

A vibrant salad bursting with colors and flavors. Crisp broccoli florets are combined with crispy bacon pieces, creating a delightful contrast. Tossed in a tangy dressing, this salad offers a perfect blend of textures and tastes. A scattering of sunflower seeds adds a satisfying crunch, making it a refreshing and savory dish

This hearty, flavorful broccoli and bacon salad is perfect for a BBQ. Combine 4 cups fresh Broccoli Florets + 6 slices crispy Bacon + ¼ cup chopped Red Onion + ¼ cup Sunflower Seeds + 1 cup shredded Cheddar. Toss with a dressing of ½ cup Mayonnaise + 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar + 1 tablespoon Sugar-Free Sweetener.

17. Grilled Parmesan Zucchini

Grilled Parmesan Zucchini is a simple, flavorful side that comes together quickly on the grill.

Grilled Parmesan zucchini, a mouthwatering side dish. Tender zucchini slices are grilled to perfection, topped with a generous sprinkle of savory Parmesan cheese. The cheese forms a golden crust, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, this dish is a delectable way to savor the flavors of summer

Cut 2 large Zucchinis into thick slices. Brush with 2 tablespoons Olive Oil + 2 minced Garlic cloves + Salt + Pepper. Grill until tender, then sprinkle with ½ cup shredded Parmesan. Continue grilling until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

18. Coleslaw with a Keto Twist

Coleslaw is a traditional BBQ side dish, and this version keeps it keto-friendly.

"A vibrant and refreshing coleslaw salad. Shredded cabbage and carrots create a colorful base, offering a satisfying crunch. The salad is dressed with a tangy and creamy dressing, perfectly balancing the flavors. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this coleslaw is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, providing a crisp and refreshing burst of taste

Mix shredded 4 cups Cabbage + 1 cup shredded Carrots + 1 cup Mayonnaise + 2 tablespoons Vinegar + 1 tablespoon Mustard + 1 tablespoon Sugar-Free Sweetener. This coleslaw is tangy, creamy, and perfect for your BBQ feast.

19. Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

These stuffed Portobello mushrooms offer an upscale, delicious side dish that’s also keto-friendly.

Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms, a delightful vegetarian dish. Large, meaty Portobello mushrooms are generously filled with a classic Caprese combination of fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomato slices, and fragrant basil leaves. The mushrooms are baked to perfection, resulting in a savory and gooey texture. This visually appealing dish is a burst of flavors, showcasing the perfect balance of tangy cheese, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.

Remove stems from 4 large Portobello Mushrooms. Fill with 8 ounces sliced fresh Mozzarella + 2 medium chopped Tomatoes + handful of Basil leaves. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons Olive Oil + 1 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze + Salt + Pepper. Grill until the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.

20. Grilled Lemon-Pepper Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a classic BBQ side dish that pairs well with any meat.

Grilled Lemon-Pepper Asparagus, a vibrant and flavorful side dish. Fresh asparagus spears are delicately grilled, resulting in a tender texture and charred edges. The dish is infused with zesty lemon and a sprinkle of aromatic black pepper, enhancing the natural flavors of the asparagus. With its bright green color and enticing aroma, this dish offers a delightful combination of tanginess and earthiness, making it a perfect addition to any summer spread

Toss 1 pound Asparagus with 2 tablespoons Olive Oil + Juice of 1 Lemon + Pepper + Salt. Grill until charred and tender. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh Lemon Zest.

21. Low-Carb Baked Zucchini Fries

These zucchini fries are a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional fries.

Baked Zucchini Fries, a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Zucchini sticks are coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection. With their slender shape and crunchy exterior, these zucchini fries offer a satisfying texture. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, they provide a flavorful experience. These guilt-free fries are a tasty alternative to traditional potato fries, making them a delicious and nutritious snack or side dish

Cut 2 large Zucchinis into fry-shaped pieces. Dip in 2 whisked Eggs, then coat in a mixture of 1 cup Almond Flour + ½ grated Parmesan + 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder + Salt + Pepper. Bake until golden brown and crispy.

Or, try these amazing Jicama Fries recipes for the airfryer.

These Best Keto BBQ Sides are Just the Beginning

Expanding your Keto Side Dish Recipes: A Great Time for Flavorful Salads

22. Avocado and Tomato Salad

This simple and refreshing avocado and tomato salad is perfect for a hot summer day.

Avocado and Tomato Salad, a vibrant and refreshing combination. Ripe avocado slices and juicy tomato wedges are artfully arranged on a bed of fresh greens. The salad showcases a harmonious blend of creamy and tangy flavors. Drizzled with a zesty dressing, this colorful salad offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. With its vibrant colors and nourishing ingredients, it's a perfect choice for a light and healthy meal or side dish

Dice 2 ripe Tomatoes + 1 ripe Avocado. Mix with ½ of thinly sliced Red Onion + handful of Cilantro + Juice of 1 Lime + 2 tablespoons Olive Oil + Salt + Pepper. It’s a fresh, tangy side that complements any BBQ main dish.

23. Refreshing Greek Salad

A refreshing Greek salad can be the perfect side dish for your summer BBQ.

Greek Salad, a classic Mediterranean delight. Crisp lettuce leaves serve as the base, adorned with a colorful assortment of ingredients. Ripe tomatoes, refreshing cucumber slices, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese are generously scattered throughout the salad. The flavors are enhanced with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of aromatic herbs. This vibrant salad offers a refreshing combination of textures and tastes, capturing the essence of Greek cuisine in every bite

To make it: chop up 2 medium fresh Tomatoes + 1 medium Cucumber + ½ Red Onion + 1 medium Bell Peppers. Mix with ½ cup Olives + 4 ounces Feta Cheese + 3 tablespoons Olive Oil + 1 tablespoon Vinegar + Oregano. This salad is bursting with fresh summer flavors and goes well with any grilled meats.

24. Creamy Cucumber and Dill Salad

This creamy cucumber and dill salad is a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for a summer BBQ.

Creamy Cucumber and Dill Salad, a refreshing and flavorful dish. Thinly sliced cucumbers are immersed in a creamy dressing, infused with the distinct taste of dill. The salad exudes a crisp and cool essence, complemented by the creamy texture. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of spice. With its vibrant green hues and aromatic herbs, this salad is a perfect balance of creaminess and freshness, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion

Slice 2 medium Cucumbers thinly. Mix with ½ cup Sour Cream + Juice of 1 Lemon + handful of fresh Dill + Salt + Pepper to taste. It’s a light, refreshing salad that pairs well with any grilled meats.

25. My Favorite Tangy BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad

This tangy, protein-rich BBQ Ranch chicken salad is perfect for BBQ lovers. It’s packed with flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds.

Tangy BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad, a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Tender, grilled chicken breast strips are tossed with fresh lettuce, crisp vegetables, and tangy BBQ ranch dressing. The salad showcases a colorful medley of ingredients, including juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and sweet corn kernels. The smoky and zesty BBQ ranch dressing adds a burst of flavor to every bite. With its vibrant presentation and harmonious blend of savory and tangy elements, this salad is a satisfying and mouthwatering meal option

Here’s how to make it: 2 cups diced Grilled Chicken + 4 cups mixed Salad Greens (like romaine, arugula, spinach) + 1 cup halved Cherry Tomatoes + ½ cup diced Cucumber + ¼ cup diced Red Onion + ¼ cup shredded Cheddar Cheese + 2 sliced Hard-Boiled Eggs. Drizzle with your favorite Low Carb BBQ Sauce and Ranch Dressing to taste. Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients.

Enjoy this filling and satisfying dish at your next summer BBQ!

Final Thoughts on Keto Sides: Healthy, Delicious, and Perfect for your Next BBQ

Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or you’re just starting your low-carb journey, these BBQ side dishes are here to make your summer meals more exciting and enjoyable. They’re perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a quiet dinner on your patio.

From the Creamy Avocado Deviled Eggs to the Tangy BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad, each dish is loaded with flavors and fresh ingredients that won’t make you miss the high-carb ones. And the best part? These recipes aren’t just low in carbs – they’re also incredibly tasty and satisfying.

Don’t forget, it’s the simple ingredients and the love you put into your cooking that make the food special. With these recipes, you’ll be sure to please both your taste buds and your dietary needs.

So, fire up your grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy a delightful, low-carb feast this summer. Here’s to healthy, delicious food and the joy it brings! Happy grilling!

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