Being a health-conscious foodies, I’m constantly searching for great methods to balance out meals without adding unnecessary Low Calorie Side Dish.
This is why I’m eager to introduce to you my best low calorie side dishes that will take your healthy meal plan to unprecedented heights. Anybody trying to keep a balanced diet without compromising taste will find these tasty and nutrient-dense choices ideal.
From crunch vegetable medleys to filling grain-based sides, I have you covered with a range of choices that will satisfy your taste senses and help you to keep your weight under control.
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Low Calorie Side Dishes
Let me offer some insider advice to maximize these meals before we delve into the delectable side dish list:
- For greatest taste and nutrition, embrace seasonal, fresh produce.
- Use herbs and spices to provide complexity without adding more calories.
- Don’t hold back on moderate consumption of healthy fats; they are vital for absorption of nutrients.
- Ahead of time preparation of ingredients will help to simplify evening cooking.
- Using textures creatively will help your sides to be more pleasing.
- To have good options all during the week, think about batch cooking.
- To maintain freshness of your prepared goods, make investments in a decent collection of storage containers.
Let’s now look at the 17 Low Calorie Side Dishes that will change your meal schedule!
Low Calorie Side Dishes to Tantalize Your Taste Buds
1. Low Calorie Roasted Rainbow Carrots
Who argues that healthy cannot be vibrant? Drizzling olive oil and sprinkling thyme, I love roasting a variety of purple, orange, and yellow carrots.
In the oven, the natural sugars caramelize to provide a sweet and savory side as gorgeous as it is tasty. These vivid vegetables are a visual and waistline feast at just 50 calories per serving.
GET RECIPE2. Low Calorie Cauliflower “Rice” Pilaf
For people checking their carb count, cauliflower rice has changed everything. A Low Calorie Side Dish substitute for regular rice pilaf is cauliflower florets pulsed in a food processor and sautéed with fragrant seasonings.
For crunch, toss some chopped bell peppers and a handful of toasted almonds; at only 70 calories per cup, this side dish is both filling and slimming.
GET RECIPE3. Low Calorie Zucchini Noodles with Lemon and Basil
Zucchini noodles, sometimes known as “zoodles,” are my go-to when I’m wanting pasta but want to keep things light.
I spiralize zucchini into noodle-like strands then mix them with a brilliant lemon and basil sauce. Just thirty calories per serving, this interesting side dish goes great with grilled chicken or fish.
GET RECIPE4. Low Calorie Grilled Portobello Mushroom Caps
I go to portobello mushrooms for a meaty taste free of calories. Marinated in balsamic vinegar and grilled till soft, these umami-rich caps are a significant side dish that seems decadent but only have only 35 calories apiece.
They are year-round mainstay in your healthy meal rotation and ideal for summer barbecues.
GET RECIPE5. Low Calorie Crispy Kale Chips
I make a batch of kale chips when my need for something crunchy strikes. I make a guilt-free side dish or snack by massaging kale leaves with a little olive oil and sea salt then roasting them till crisp.
These nutrient-dense, just 50-calorie chips meet my crunch needs without compromising my diet.
GET RECIPE6. Low Calorie Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
With this basic but sophisticated recipe, I have turned many Brussels sprout critics around.
These little cabbages taste naturally sweet when roasted; a light drizzle of balsamic glaze gives a tangy dimension. This side dish, which runs 80 calories per serving, is evidence that good eating can be elegant and delicious.
GET RECIPE7. Low Calorie Cucumber and Dill Salad
I go for this cold, crisp cucumber salad on hot summer days. For a creamy yet light dressing, combine thinly cut cucumbers with fresh dill, a dash of vinegar, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Just 40 calories per serving, this revitalizing side goes great with grilled fish or meat.
GET RECIPE8. Low Calorie Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
I love baking spicy roasted chickpeas for a side loaded with proteins that doubles as a snack.
Addressed with cumin, paprika, and a little cayenne, roasted till crispy, these legumes are quite addictive. Smart addition to any meal plan, a quarter-cup serving offers a pleasing crunch with just 60 calories.
GET RECIPE9. Low Calorie Spaghetti Squash with Herbs
Spaghetti squash is my hidden weapon when I’m trying for a Low Calorie Side Dish substitute for pasta.
The meat breaks into spaghetti-like strands once cooked that I combine with fresh herbs and a bit of garlic. With forty calories per cup, this adaptable side dish is a blank canvas for many flavor combinations.
GET RECIPE10. Low Calorie Asian-Inspired Broccoli Slaw
I go to this Asian-inspired broccoli slaw for a crunchy, vibrant side dish. Toss shredded red cabbage, carrots, and broccoli stems with a tart rice vinegar dressing; sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Just 65 calories per serving, this nutrient-dense slaw gives any plate a striking pop.
GET RECIPE11. Low Calorie Mashed Cauliflower with Roasted Garlic
When comfort food calls, I make a batch of mashed cauliflower. A creamy, Low Calorie Side Dish substitute for mashed potatoes, steamed cauliflower is combined with roasted garlic and a dash of almond milk.
Without the guilt, this side dish—which just 70 calories per serving—is a nice complement to any dinner.
GET RECIPE12. Low Calorie Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Tender asparagus stalks are the perfect springtime fare. I enjoy grilling them lightly olive oil covered, then finishing them with a sprinkle of lemon zest.
With just 30 calories per serving, this basic preparation helps the natural flavors to shine and maintains Low Calorie Side Dish count.
This refined side fits perfectly with everything from roasted chicken to grilled seafood.
GET RECIPE13. Low Calorie Tomato and Basil Bruschetta (without the bread)
By concentrating on the delicious topping and omitting the bread, I have reinvented the traditional bruschetta.
Fresh basil, minced garlic, and a sloshful of balsamic vinegar are blended with diced ripe tomatoes.
For a Low Calorie Side Dish side that explodes with Mediterranean taste at just 35 calories per half-cup, this zesty mix may be eaten on its own or spooned over grilled veggies.
GET RECIPE14. Low Calorie Steamed Green Beans with Almonds
I go to steaming green beans topped with toasted almond slivers for a quick and simple side that doesn’t compromise nutrition or taste.
The almonds give a good crunch, while the beans keep their fresh texture and vivid color. For just 60 calories per serving, this classic combo offers a rainbow of minerals and vitamins.
GET RECIPE15. Low Calorie Roasted Radishes with Rosemary
You are going to have fun if you have never roasted radishes. This often disregarded vegetable changes in the oven to become sweet and mellow.
Before roasting, I toss them with fresh rosemary and a little olive oil to create a distinctive side dish as conversation-worthy as it is Low Calorie Side Dish—only 50 per serving.
GET RECIPE16. Low Calorie Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
I adore making stuffed bell peppers for a more substantial side that would fit rather well as a light main dish.
I toss halved bell peppers with quinoa, chopped veggies, and seasonings; bake until cooked. About 120 calories per half pepper, this vibrant and nutrient-dense alternative is a filling but figure-friendly choice.
GET RECIPE17. Low Calorie Watermelon and Feta Salad
Not least of all, I can’t resist adding this sweet and savory combo ideal for summer get-together.
Tossed with crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, and balsamic reduction, cubes of luscious watermelon are At just 80 calories per serving, this surprising combo is a crowd-pleaser that’s light and refreshing.
GET RECIPEConclusion
Thinking back on these 17 low-calorie side dishes makes me appreciate the amazing range and taste that good dining can present. Including these choices into your diet will not only be providing your body with vital nutrients but also treat your taste receptors to a universe of mouthwatering possibilities.
Remember, the secret to sustainable healthy eating is discovering meals you really enjoy; among these choices, I’m sure you’ll find fresh favorites that will make your path to wellness both pleasing and interesting.
So keep your calorie count under control and start experimenting with these sides to see how your meals move from regular to spectacular. One mouthful at a time, one great taste can help you to be healthy and happy.
