7 Low-Carb Vegetables to Reach For When You're Tired of Leafy Salads

POPSUGAR Photography | Cera Hensley
POPSUGAR Photography | Cera Hensley

If you're cutting back on complex, calorie-dense carbs like rice and potatoes for weight-loss purposes, you can still eat your fill of low-calorie vegetable options that are full of essential nutrients such as fiber. Going low-carb doesn't limit you to leafy salads, and the following vegetables prove it.

Mushrooms
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are low in carbs but high in protein and fiber, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. If you're tired of having them grilled, treat yourself to a one-pan, vegetarian dinner like this mushroom, chickpea, and kale skillet — feel free to add your favourite protein for a meaty meal.

Bell Peppers
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are nothing new, but they often get overlooked for just how many options you have when it comes to fillings. They're low-calorie and low-carb, and they can be tender or crunchy depending on your preference; what's not to love?! Prep a week's worth of slow-cooker veggie chili or a high-protein turkey chili, and enjoy one every night.

Broccoli and Cauliflower
POPSUGAR Photography | Anna Monette Roberts

Broccoli and Cauliflower

Broccoli and cauliflower are some of the more common low-carb vegetables on the healthy eating scene. Although you may be used to the taste and convenience of having them boiled or steamed, there are different way to make these vegetables take center stage on your plate. Grab some riced cauliflower or broccoli, and throw your favourite ingredients together to make a low-carb rice bowl or roast them for a simple veggie hash.

Asparagus
POPSUGAR Photography | Erin Cullum

Asparagus

Asparagus has a distinctive flavor that lends itself to different dishes, from soups to vegetable hashes. It also helps that, when you're after minimal prep, you can just wrap it in some lean bacon, bake it, and have a ready-made meal that's flavorful and nutritious.

Zucchinis
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Zucchinis

How many ways can we enjoy the humble zucchini? Too many ways to count, I'd say. Zucchinis aren't reserved for any mealtime, either; you can turn them into zoats for breakfast, brownies, and these crispy, crunchy zucchini crisps that are covered in a healthy dose of breadcrumbs and parmesan.

Brussels Sprouts
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Shoemaker

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts aren't just accompaniments to festive feasts; they're actually great vegetable options if you want to diversify the greens on your plate. The key to enjoying these little wonders is by seasoning them right. Although you can sautée them, if you're trying to keep your veg as low-maintenance as possible, dust them with spices of your choice, roast them in some oil, and add your favorite protein.

Cabbage
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Cabbage

There are many more ways to enjoy cabbage than simply boiled, and this crispy cabbage and kale recipe even has the bonus of being a one-pan wonder. For a higher fat content, try crumbling some feta cheese on it. A standard 70-gram serving of cabbage offers just over five grams of carbohydrates and two grams of fiber.