15 Crowd-Pleasing Low-Carb Recipes That Save You at Every Summer BBQ

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Summer BBQs can be tough when you’re trying to eat low-carb and still show up with something everyone actually wants to eat. These recipes check all the boxes: easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, this list has your back with stress-free options that won’t get left behind on the table.

Cucumber Roll Ups

These cucumber roll ups are light, fresh, and the kind of appetizer that disappears fast at any summer BBQ. With crisp cucumber slices wrapped around creamy cheese and smoky salmon, they look fancy but take just 10 minutes to make. They’re low-carb, totally refreshing, and exactly the kind of crowd-pleaser that keeps people hovering near the snack table.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Roll Ups

Homemade Salsa Ranchera

Homemade salsa ranchera brings bold, smoky flavor that’s perfect for dipping or drizzling over grilled meats and veggies. It’s roasted instead of raw, giving it that deep, rich taste that stands out at any summer BBQ spread. Low-carb and full of real ingredients, it’s a game-changer when you want to bring something homemade and different.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Salsa Ranchera

Cold Brew

Cold brew is the new hero of summer BBQs, especially when it’s hot and everyone needs a cool, energizing sip. Just two ingredients and a little patience get you a smooth, bold brew that beats store-bought every time. It’s low-carb, totally customizable, and a great non-alcoholic option for guests who want something refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Cold Brew

Caprese Appetizer

These caprese skewers are a no-fail way to bring color and flavor to the BBQ table. Juicy cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze pack a punch in every bite, and they’re naturally low-carb. Easy to assemble and serve, they check every box: fresh, fast, and guaranteed to get compliments.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Mini Strawberry Shortcake

Turn strawberry shortcake into a low-carb-friendly treat with these mini muffin-style bites. They’re light, fluffy, and filled with fresh berries and whipped cream, making them feel indulgent without being too heavy. They look great on a platter and are perfect for serving outdoors, a crowd-pleasing summer dessert that’s sweet without the sugar overload.
Get the Recipe: Mini Strawberry Shortcake

Healthy Deviled Eggs

These healthy deviled eggs skip the mayo and use avocado and sour cream for a creamy, flavor-packed filling. They’re bite-sized, low-carb, and always the first thing to disappear at summer potlucks. A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of paprika adds just enough flair, just bring a tray and expect people to ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Deviled Eggs

Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles

Shrimp scampi with zoodles brings big flavor and a light touch to your summer BBQ spread. Ready in 20 minutes and made in one pan, it’s garlicky, lemony, and everything you want from a pasta dish, minus the carbs. Serve it chilled or warm for a versatile main that won’t weigh anyone down, simple to prep, and totally summer-approved.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles

Canned Salmon Burgers

These crispy canned salmon burgers come together fast and taste like something you spent way more time on. They’re low-carb, high in protein, and easy to prep ahead for BBQs or casual dinners. Serve them bunless, on lettuce wraps, or between flatbread for a simple, delicious main dish. No one will guess how quick and budget-friendly they really are.
Get the Recipe: Canned Salmon Burgers

Mason Jar Chocolate Ice Cream

Beat the summer heat with this no-churn, low-carb chocolate ice cream made right in a mason jar. Just shake, freeze, and enjoy, no machine, no mess. It’s creamy, sweet, and perfect for serving straight from the jar at your next BBQ, a total crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Mason Jar Chocolate Ice Cream

Strawberry Cheesecake Smoothie

This strawberry cheesecake smoothie is a sweet, creamy, low-carb option when you want something cold and filling. Blend it up in minutes and serve as a refreshing drink or light dessert. It’s fruity, indulgent, and ideal for sipping on hot days. You’ll want to keep extras chilled and ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake Smoothie

Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing

Creamy coleslaw is a must-have at every summer BBQ and just happens to be low-carb. It’s crisp, colorful, and tossed in a dairy-free dressing that’s perfectly sweet and tangy. Made with just a few ingredients, it comes together fast and complements everything from burgers to grilled chicken, it’s the kind of side dish you’ll never have to bring home.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing

3-Ingredient Lemonade

This sugar-free lemonade is crisp, tart, and just sweet enough to keep everyone cool and happy. Made with just three ingredients, it’s a no-fuss drink you can make in big batches for your next BBQ. It’s refreshing, low-carb, and family-friendly, no alcohol or added sugar needed, one pitcher never seems to be enough.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Lemonade

Chicken Tostadas with Crispy Cheese Tortilla

Swap tortillas for crispy cheese shells and turn tostadas into a low-carb hit. Load them with shredded chicken, lettuce, guac, and salsa for a flavor-packed main that’s both fun and filling. They hold up well outdoors and make a unique addition to the usual BBQ spread; easy to assemble, easier to devour.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tostadas with Crispy Cheese Tortilla

Bacon Cheddar Dip

This bacon cheddar dip is bold, cheesy, and loaded with Ranch seasoning, everything you want in a party app. It comes together in five minutes and can be served hot or cold, depending on your mood. Pair it with veggies or low-carb crackers and watch it disappear fast, guaranteed to be a BBQ favorite.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheddar Dip

Chocolate Raspberry Smoothie

Chocolate and raspberry make the perfect summer duo in this creamy, low-carb smoothie. It’s simple to blend, easy to chill, and doubles as a drink or light dessert. Rich, fruity, and totally refreshing, great for BBQs when you want a sweet treat that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Raspberry Smoothie