Low Carb Grilling for Warm Weather Celebrations

There are a few holidays in the United States that I think are synonymous with grilling and backyard barbecues. They are Memorial Day weekend, Father’s Day, the 4th of July and Labor Day. When you’re eating low carb, grilling can actually be one of the best options for cooking protein-centered meals. Here are some ideas on how you can incorporate low carb grilling and more with a few creative twists on classic backyard barbecue favorites.

Essentials for a low-carb cookout

By selecting high-fat, low-carb ingredients, anyone can transform the quintessential American cookout into a feast. The great news is that you don’t have to limit your backyard barbecue menu to grilled meats only. You can also include keto-friendly desserts. The secret lies in selecting the right recipes and knowing which ingredients to embrace and which ones to avoid.

The basis for your low carb grilling menu should be proteins. Opt for meats high in natural fats like ribeye steaks, pork belly or even lamb. However, you don’t have to forgo burgers — especially if you can accompany them with this recipe for low carb buns. When making burgers, you can look for alternatives to red meat, fatty fish such as salmon or mackerel are excellent choices that provide both flavor and nutritional benefits.

Healthy fats play a crucial role in keto grilling. They not only add essential fatty acids to the diet but also help to infuse flavors into the food. Using oils like extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil or even avocado oil can enhance the taste and nutritional profile of your dishes. 

While classic proteins like burgers and ribs are always favorites, incorporating some innovative dishes like a keto cheeseburger casserole or even bringing out a wedge salad can offer a delightful twist that guests will love.

Marinades and seasonings

When it comes to low carb vegetables, great choices range from the green and leafy, such as spinach, kale or Swiss chard, to asparagus, zucchini and bell peppers. They add color, texture and a host of nutrients without tipping the carb count too high.

The use of marinades and rubs can be a game-changer in keto grilling. Creating your own rubs with herbs and spices that are low in carbohydrates, like this homemade sweet heat BBQ rub is the way to go. If you want to go for Latin flavor, you can try this sugar free taco seasonings as a rub.

Chicken wings are always popular, too. And with this recipe for keto chicken wings, you’re using a sugar-free honey mustard glaze. Each serving has only 1 g net carbs.

Refreshing beverages

For hydration, your options for low carb beverages are unlimited. You can serve up pitchers of infused waters with berries and mint or offer unsweetened iced teas. You can even brew a batch of iced tea in your Instant Pot so you’ll have plenty to serve. There are also options for cocktails and mocktails that won’t blow your or your guests’ carb count. This includes dry wines or spirits mixed with sugar-free tonics and a sugar-free pina colada recipe.

Keto dessert option

Berries and cream offer a delightful treat, combining the natural sweetness of berries with the rich smoothness of whipped cream, making for a refreshing and festive dessert. For cookie enthusiasts, keto cookies made with almond or coconut flour can satisfy the craving for something crunchy and sweet without the added carbs. A fluffy keto chocolate cake or a keto jello cheesecake are both great ways to round out a day of grilling. Or bring out one of my favorite warm-weather desserts: frozen vanilla yogurt bites.

Portions of this article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.