Home » Recipe Collections » 17 Side Dishes That Take Minutes to Make

17 Side Dishes That Take Minutes to Make

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

Let’s be honest, nobody wants to miss out on fun because they’re stuck in the kitchen. Our selection of 17 side dishes comes to the rescue, ready quicker than your friends can ask, “How can I help?” With these in your menu, you’ll be free to mingle, or simply kick back and relax—your stove won’t even have time to miss you!

Pumpkin Fries on a parchment paper with herbs.
Pumpkin Fries. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Crispy Baked Zucchini served on a white plate.
Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven offers a regret-free treat with its crispy texture and golden finish. This side dish is a hit for those who prefer their snacks on the lighter side but still crave that fulfilling crunch. It’s quick to make, even quicker to disappear from the plate!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Lecso Vegetable Stew

A girl holding a big casserole filled with vegetable stew.
Lecso Vegetable Stew. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

An ideal choice for those chilly evenings when you want something warming but not too heavy. Lecso Vegetable Stew is a vibrant addition to any meal, bringing a splash of color and a burst of flavor. It’s hearty enough to satisfy but light enough not to fill you up before the main event.
Get the Recipe: Lecso Vegetable Stew

Cheese Puffs Air Fryer

Cheese Puffs in a bowl with fresh parsley.
Cheese Puffs Air Fryer. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Ready in minutes, these puffs are ideal for last-minute guests or a spontaneous movie night. Cheese Puffs Air Fryer takes the hassle out of snacking with a light, airy texture that’s incredibly moreish. They’re the perfect quick side for those who want something a little different from the usual fare.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Puffs Air Fryer

Best Salsa

Salsa in a container with chips around.
Best Salsa. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Brighten up your meal with Best Salsa, a side that’s as vibrant as it is quick to prepare. This salsa brings a fresh, lively kick to any dish, perfect for spooning over grilled meats or scooping up with chips. It’s a staple that no kitchen should be without, especially when time is of the essence but flavor is still a priority.
Get the Recipe: Best Salsa

Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes

Extra Crispy Keto Tater Tots Croquettes inside white bowl.
Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Perfect for dipping and makes a great addition to any casual dining experience. Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes are the go-to for anyone looking for a crunchy, fulfilling side that’s out of the ordinary. These croquettes are golden and crispy on the outside, soft and warm on the inside, and they come together in just minutes.
Get the Recipe: Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes

Faux Potato Salad

A white bowl of potato salad with mayonnaise.
Faux Potato Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Prepared quickly and can even be made ahead of time, ready to impress with its familiar yet refreshed flavor profile. Faux Potato Salad offers all the comfort of traditional potato salad without the carbs. This dish is a clever twist on a classic, perfect for picnics or as a hearty side to your main meal.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad

Crispy Low Carb French Fries

Keto French Fries on the table with ketchup and mayo.
Crispy Low Carb French Fries. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For those cutting down on carbs but missing classic comforts, Crispy Low Carb French Fries are a dream come true. They achieve that sought-after crispy exterior without the regret. This side dish is perfect for a family-friendly meal or as a snack during game night. It’s quick to prepare, even quicker to enjoy!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Low Carb French Fries

Avocado Egg Salad

Avocado Egg Salad on a salad leaves.
Avocado Egg Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Avocado Egg Salad is a creamy, refreshing side that combines well-loved flavors in a novel way. It’s especially good on a warm day or alongside spicy dishes, providing a cool, creamy counterpoint. This dish is a quick mix-and-serve affair, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or a speedy family lunch.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Egg Salad

Fried Cheese Balls

Keto Fried Cheese Balls with parsley.
Fried Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Nothing says party like Fried Cheese Balls, and these are no exception. They’re quick to fry and even quicker to disappear from the plate. Perfect for entertaining or just a fun family side, these cheese balls are crisp on the outside, molten on the inside, and absolutely irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cheese Balls

Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower

Baked Riced Cauliflower in a bowl with a spoon.
Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

If you’re looking for a light yet fulfilling side, Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower fits the bill perfectly. It cooks quickly in the oven, offering a pleasant alternative to heavier starches. This dish pairs well with virtually any main, providing a subtle crunch and a mild, welcoming flavor.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower

Steamed Artichoke

An artichoke in a bowl with lemon slices and a fork.
Steamed Artichoke. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For a change of pace, Steamed Artichoke makes for an engaging side that’s as fun to eat as it is quick to prepare. The artichokes come out perfectly tender, ideal for dipping in your favorite sauce. This dish is a straightforward way to add elegance without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Artichoke

Homemade Curd Cheese

Curd cheese inside a cup with frozen berries.
Homemade Curd Cheese. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

With Homemade Curd Cheese, upgrade your side dish menu with a fresh, luscious texture that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. This cheese is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes or enjoyed on its own. It’s a delicious addition to any meal, bringing a homemade touch that’s sure to be a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Curd Cheese

Low Carb Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese sauce in a small cast iron.
Low Carb Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Amp up your side dish game with Low Carb Bolognese Sauce, a robust and hearty option that’s surprisingly low on carbs but big on flavor. This sauce pairs beautifully with vegetable noodles or a grilled protein, making it a versatile choice for any meal. It’s a quick simmer away from bringing bold flavors to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Bolognese Sauce

Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling

Keto steamed bread on a wooden board sliced.
Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Introduce a lighter alternative to traditional bread with Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling. This dish is surprisingly filling without the heaviness of usual bread, steamed to perfection in minutes. It pairs well with any stew or sauce, soaking up flavors while maintaining a delicious texture.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling

Homemade Marinara Sauce

Marinara Sauce in a white bowl.
Homemade Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Simple and classic, Homemade Marinara Sauce is a staple that goes with everything. Whether it’s dressing up a side of pasta or adding flavor to grilled vegetables, this sauce is a must-have in the kitchen. It’s quick to cook and even quicker to become a favorite among those who try it.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Marinara Sauce

Pumpkin Fries

Pumpkin Fries on a parchment paper with herbs.
Pumpkin Fries. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Switch up your fry game with Pumpkin Fries, a perfect twist on a classic favorite. These fries bake up quickly and offer a sweet, nutty flavor that’s a great sidekick to any main dish. They’re especially popular in the fall but welcome at any table year-round. Serve them up hot for a side that draws smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Fries

Homemade Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing in a glass bowl with sticks of veggies.
Homemade Ranch Dressing. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Drizzle some fun onto your sides with Homemade Ranch Dressing. This dressing is not only effortless to whip up but also adds a creamy, tangy touch to any side dish. It’s perfect for salads, fresh veggies, or as a dipping sauce. Ready in just a few minutes, it’s the homemade touch that’s always welcome at any table.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ranch Dressing

By Zuzana Paar on July 23rd, 2024
Photo of author

About Zuzana Paar

Zuzana is the creative force behind this vibrant blog. With passion as a recipe developer, content creator, food writer, movie maker, and photographer, she poured her heart and soul into curating a space brimming with delightful keto and low carb recipes. Join her on this flavorful journey where quick, easy-to-make dishes take center stage, bringing joy and nourishment to your table.

More Posts by this author.

Leave a Comment