15 Keto-Friendly Grilled Recipes for Summer

As someone who loves indulging in summer BBQs but also follows a keto-friendly diet, I’ve discovered that grilling is the perfect way to enjoy flavorful meals without compromising on my dietary goals.

The great thing about grilling is that it naturally allows you to create dishes that are low in carbs and high in healthy fats and proteins, making it easy to stick to a keto lifestyle.

Over the years, I’ve tried a variety of grilled recipes, and these 5 keto-friendly options are my absolute favorites for summer. They’re quick, delicious, and satisfying, and they’ll keep you on track while still letting you enjoy all the best parts of grilling season.

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

These grilled lemon herb chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and full of healthy fats. The marinade of lemon and fresh herbs infuses the chicken with delicious flavor, making it a perfect keto meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade and let them sit for 10 minutes.
4. Grill the chicken for 7-8 minutes per side, until cooked through.
5. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

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2. Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa

This grilled salmon topped with fresh avocado salsa is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats, making it a perfect choice for a keto-friendly summer dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, until flaky and cooked through.
4. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, tomato, cilantro, and lime juice to make the salsa.
5. Top the grilled salmon with the fresh avocado salsa and serve.

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3. Grilled Zucchini and Squash

This grilled zucchini and squash are simple, keto-friendly side dishes that are full of flavor. The smoky grill flavor pairs perfectly with these vegetables, making them a light yet satisfying option.

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchini, sliced
• 2 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Toss the zucchini and squash slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Grill the vegetables for 4-5 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
4. Serve as a side dish to any grilled protein for a full keto meal.

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4. Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter

These grilled shrimp skewers are coated in a delicious garlic butter sauce, making them the perfect keto-friendly appetizer or main dish for any summer gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Toss the shrimp in the garlic butter mixture and thread them onto skewers.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

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5. Grilled Avocado with Salsa

Grilled avocado is a fantastic keto-friendly option for a light meal or appetizer. The smokiness from the grill pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado, and the salsa adds a refreshing kick.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the avocado halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the avocado halves for 2-3 minutes, until they’re slightly charred.
4. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice to make the salsa.
5. Top the grilled avocado with the fresh salsa and serve as a side or snack.

6. Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Mint

Grilled eggplant is naturally smoky and tender, and when topped with crumbled feta and fresh mint, it makes a flavorful keto-friendly side dish or light meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the eggplant slices for 4-5 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
4. Top with crumbled feta and fresh mint before serving.
5. Serve as a side dish or enjoy it as a light vegetarian meal.

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7. Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers

These grilled chicken and veggie skewers are packed with protein and nutrients. The smoky char from the grill and the colorful vegetables make it a healthy and satisfying keto meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating as you go.
4. Brush with the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve the skewers with a side of cauliflower rice or a salad.

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8. Grilled Cauliflower with Parmesan

Grilled cauliflower is a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to traditional sides. The caramelization on the grill enhances the flavor, while Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth.

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden and tender.
4. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve as a tasty keto side dish.

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9. Grilled Salmon with Dill Butter

This grilled salmon with dill butter is a simple yet luxurious dish. The salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and the dill butter adds a refreshing, herbal finish to the smoky fish.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with fresh dill and lemon juice.
5. Top the grilled salmon with dill butter and serve with grilled veggies or a green salad.

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10. Grilled Shrimp with Garlic and Parsley

Grilled shrimp are quick, flavorful, and full of healthy protein. This garlic and parsley seasoning is the perfect combination, making it an easy and satisfying keto-friendly meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the shrimp in the garlic mixture and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

11. Grilled Avocado and Salsa

Grilled avocado with fresh salsa is a simple yet flavorful dish that works great as a snack, side, or topping. The smoky avocado pairs perfectly with tangy salsa, making it a satisfying keto option.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the avocado halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the avocado halves for 2-3 minutes until slightly charred and warmed through.
4. In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice to make the salsa.
5. Top the grilled avocado with salsa and serve as a snack or side dish.

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12. Grilled Steak with Garlic Herb Butter

Grilled steak is a keto-friendly favorite, and when paired with garlic herb butter, it takes the flavor to the next level. This rich, satisfying meal is perfect for a summer dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 ribeye steaks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rub the steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the steaks for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, for medium-rare.
4. In a small bowl, mix the butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
5. Once the steaks are grilled, top with garlic herb butter and serve.

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13. Grilled Vegetable Fajitas

These grilled vegetable fajitas are perfect for a healthy, plant-based keto meal. The smoky char on the peppers, onions, and zucchini adds depth of flavor, making this a satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small lettuce leaves (for wrapping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the sliced vegetables with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for 4-5 minutes per side until tender and charred.
4. Remove from the grill and serve in lettuce wraps for a keto-friendly fajita alternative.

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14. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Grilled chicken Caesar salad is a delicious low-carb option that’s high in protein and full of flavor. Grilling the chicken adds smoky depth, and the creamy dressing ties everything together.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• ¼ cup Caesar dressing (make sure it’s keto-friendly)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
4. Slice the grilled chicken and toss it with chopped romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve immediately for a refreshing, keto-friendly meal.

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15. Grilled Shrimp and Veggie Skewers

These grilled shrimp and veggie skewers are a great keto meal that combines lean protein with colorful vegetables. They’re quick to prepare, easy to cook, and perfect for a summer cookout.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp and vegetables with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the shrimp and veggies onto skewers.
4. Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side until the shrimp is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve with a side of avocado or a light keto-friendly dipping sauce.