Low Carb Appetizers: 13 Quick and Tasty Recipes

What Low Carb Appetizers Are Good for Keto?

Low carb appetizers are small dishes made with ingredients that have little to no carbohydrates. They’re a great way to enjoy flavorful snacks or starters without going over your daily carb limit.

Whether you’re following a keto diet or just trying to cut back on carbs, these appetizers can help you stay on track.

Common examples include avocado chips, bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, chicken wings, deviled eggs, and fresh guacamole.

Many of them use low-carb ingredients, such as cheese, meat, eggs, and vegetables, instead of bread, crackers, or flour-based items.

In this post, you’ll find 13 tasty low-carb appetizer ideas that are simple to make and full of flavor. We’ll also answer a few common questions about low-carb eating and link to related recipes if you’re looking for more ideas.

A mix of low-carb snacks including sliced tomatoes, avocado, kiwi, cheese cubes, nuts, and green veggie chips on a white table
A mix of low-carb snacks including sliced tomatoes, avocado, kiwi, cheese cubes, nuts, and green veggie chips on a white table

Table of Contents:

13 Low Carb Appetizers Food Options

Four pieces of toast topped with avocado, cheese, seeds, and veggies like tomato and arugula, surrounded by cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes
Four pieces of toast topped with avocado, cheese, seeds, and veggies like tomato and arugula, surrounded by cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes

This section features 13 low-carb appetizer ideas made with simple, wholesome ingredients.

From crispy avocado chips to savory chicken wings and fresh salmon cucumber bites, each option offers bold flavor without the added carbs.

Whether you’re craving something cheesy, spicy, or crunchy, there’s a variety of textures and tastes to suit any occasion.

These appetizers are easy to prepare and perfect for snacks, parties, or as a low-carb meal starter.

1. Avocado Chips

A bowl of guacamole served with crispy fried plantain chips on a dark blue background
A bowl of guacamole served with crispy fried plantain chips on a dark blue background

Avocado chips are a crunchy, satisfying snack that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.

Made by blending ripe avocado with cheese and seasoning, then baking until crisp, these chips are rich in healthy fats and full of flavor.

They’re a smart alternative to traditional potato or tortilla chips, offering the same crunch without the carbs.

You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with dips like guacamole or salsa. They’re quick to make and ideal for meal prep or midday snacking.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 38 kcal
  • Total fat: 2.9 grams
  • Net carbs: 0.5 grams
  • Protein: 2.1 grams

2. Bacon Bourbon Keto Meatballs

Bacon bourbon keto meatballs bring bold flavor and a touch of sweetness without the added sugar.

These bite-sized snacks are made with ground meat, crispy bacon, and a rich, smoky bourbon glaze that’s low in carbs and high in taste.

Almond flour or crushed pork rinds keep them keto-friendly, while garlic, onion, and spices round out the flavor.

Perfect for parties or meal prep, they’re easy to bake and reheat. Serve them with toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 42 kcal
  • Total fat:  2.8 grams
  • Net carbs: 0.5 grams
  • Protein: 2.7 grams

3. Bite-Sized Keto Caprese Appetizer

A plate of low carb Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, and fresh basil leaves
A plate of low carb Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, and fresh basil leaves

These bite-sized keto Caprese appetizers are a fresh and simple way to enjoy a classic Italian combo without the carbs.

Each skewer holds a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a fresh basil leaf, all drizzled with olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar or reduction. They’re light, colorful, and easy to assemble in minutes.

This low-carb option is perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight snacks, or as a refreshing starter. You get creamy, tangy, and herby flavors in every bite without straying from your low-carb goals.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 12 kcal
  • Total fat: 2 grams
  • Net carbs: 0.4 grams
  • Protein: 15 grams

4. Easy Keto Layered Pizza Dip

Easy keto layered pizza dip is everything you love about pizza, minus the crust. This warm, cheesy dip features layers of cream cheese, marinara, shredded mozzarella, pepperoni, and Italian seasoning.

It’s baked until bubbly and golden, delivering all the classic pizza flavors in every scoop. Serve it with sliced bell peppers, zucchini chips, or pork rinds for a fully low-carb experience.

It’s quick to prep, always a crowd favorite, and makes a fun appetizer for parties or game day snacks.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Total fat: 23.6 grams
  • Net carbs: 4 grams
  • Protein: 9.2 grams

5. Fried Deviled Eggs

Three eggs cooked in pepper rings with roasted tomatoes in a black skillet
Three eggs cooked in pepper rings with roasted tomatoes in a black skillet

Fried deviled eggs take a classic favorite and give it a crispy twist. Start by slicing hard-boiled eggs in half, scooping out the yolks, and preparing your usual deviled egg filling.

The egg whites are then coated in crushed pork rinds or almond flour and lightly fried until golden. Once crispy, fill them with the creamy yolk mixture for a crunchy-outside, smooth-inside bite.

These low-carb appetizers are perfect for gatherings, offering familiar flavors with a fun, unexpected texture that’s sure to impress.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 101 kcal
  • Total fat: 8.5 grams
  • Net carbs: 0.7 grams
  • Protein: 5.7 grams

6. Keto Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Keto air fryer chicken wings are a go-to low-carb appetizer that’s both crispy and satisfying without deep frying.

Seasoned with spices like garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt, these wings cook up perfectly in the air fryer, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. Toss them in a sugar-free buffalo sauce or garlic butter for extra flavor.

They’re quick to make, require minimal cleanup, and are great for game nights or casual get-togethers. Serve them with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 472 kcal
  • Total fat: 35.9 grams
  • Net carbs: 1.3 grams
  • Protein: 30.6 grams

7. Keto Butter Fried Chicken Hearts

Crispy chicken legs on a board with lemon, herbs, garlic, and pepper
Crispy chicken legs on a board with lemon, herbs, garlic, and pepper

Keto butter fried chicken hearts are a bold, protein-packed appetizer that’s both flavorful and filling.

Cooked in butter with garlic, herbs, and a touch of salt, these bite-sized morsels develop a rich, savory taste and tender texture.

They’re naturally low in carbs and high in iron, making them a great option for nutrient-dense snacking.

If you’re open to trying something different, chicken hearts offer a unique twist that fits right into a keto diet. Serve them hot with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 246 kcal
  • Total fat: 18.6 grams
  • Net carbs: 1 gram
  • Protein: 17.1 grams

8. Keto Granola Bars

Keto granola bars are a sweet and crunchy snack that works well as a light appetizer or grab-and-go option.

Made with a mix of nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, and sugar-free syrup or nut butter, they offer plenty of texture without the sugar spike.

You can add extras like cinnamon, vanilla, or even dark chocolate chips for more flavor. Slice them into small squares and serve with cheese or berries for a balanced low-carb bite.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 223 kcal
  • Total fat: 19.5 grams
  • Net carbs: 3.9 grams
  • Protein: 6.2 grams

9. Keto Homemade Fresh Guacamole

A bowl of fresh guacamole with a hint of lime, set on a wooden board
A bowl of fresh guacamole with a hint of lime, set on a wooden board

Keto homemade fresh guacamole is a creamy, flavorful dip that’s perfect for any low-carb spread.

Made with ripe avocados, lime juice, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño, it delivers bold taste with zero added sugar.

This guac is naturally low in carbs and packed with healthy fats, making it ideal for keto eaters.

Serve it with sliced cucumber, bell pepper strips, or cheese crisps for a crunchy, satisfying appetizer. It’s quick to mix up and always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or casual meals.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 195 kcal
  • Total fat: 16.5 grams
  • Net carbs: 4.7 grams
  • Protein: 2.8 grams

10. Keto Jalapeño Poppers

Keto jalapeño poppers are a spicy, cheesy snack that hits all the right notes. Each jalapeño half is filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and spices, then wrapped in crispy bacon and baked until golden.

They’re low in carbs, high in flavor, and easy to customize with herbs or chopped meats. These poppers make a great appetizer for parties, game nights, or even weeknight dinners.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 328 kcal
  • Total fat: 27.1 grams
  • Net carbs: 3 grams
  • Protein: 15.4 grams

11. Keto Mozzarella Sticks

A plate of mozzarella sticks served on a black cloth background
A plate of mozzarella sticks served on a black cloth background

Keto mozzarella sticks are a low-carb take on a classic comfort food favorite. Made by coating mozzarella cheese sticks in a mix of almond flour and crushed pork rinds, they’re then frozen and baked or air-fried until golden and gooey.

The result is a crispy exterior with a melty center that’s hard to resist. These make a great appetizer or snack, especially when paired with a sugar-free marinara sauce.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 138 kcal
  • Total fat: 10.3 grams
  • Net carbs: 0.4 grams
  • Protein: 11.3 grams

12. Keto Raspberry White Chocolate Granola Bars

Keto raspberry white chocolate granola bars offer a sweet and slightly tart bite without the sugar overload.

Made with a mix of nuts, seeds, freeze-dried raspberries, and sugar-free white chocolate, these bars are chewy, satisfying, and low in carbs.

They’re a great option if you want something a little different for an appetizer platter or a light snack.

Slice them into small portions for sharing, and serve with tea or coffee. They add a dessert-like touch to your spread while keeping your carb count in check.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 275 kcal
  • Total fat: 22.1 grams
  • Net carbs: 5.1 grams
  • Protein: 8.2 grams

13. Salmon Cucumber Bites

Salmon cucumber bites are light, fresh, and perfect for low-carb snacking. Each bite starts with a thick cucumber slice topped with a dollop of herbed cream cheese and a slice of smoked salmon.

Garnish with dill or capers for an extra burst of flavor. These appetizers are naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein, making them ideal for keto and low-carb diets.

They’re quick to assemble, visually appealing, and a hit at brunches, parties, or whenever you want a no-fuss, elegant starter.

Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 62 kcal
  • Total fat: 4.9 grams
  • Net carbs: 0.6 grams
  • Protein: 4.1 grams

If you enjoyed these low-carb appetizers, you might also like these gluten-free and keto-friendly recipes that make smart snacking easier and more delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Bananas High in Carbs?

Yes, bananas are relatively high in carbs. A medium banana contains about 25–27 grams of total carbohydrates, mostly from natural sugars. Because of this, they’re not typically recommended for strict low-carb or keto diets, especially when trying to stay under daily carb limits.

Which Fruit Is Lowest in Carbs?

Berries are among the lowest-carb fruits, with raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries leading the list. They’re high in fiber and antioxidants while staying low in net carbs, about 3 to 5 grams per half-cup, making them a smart choice for low-carb or keto-friendly snacking.

What Desserts Are Low-Carb?

Low-carb desserts include treats like keto cheesecake, chocolate mousse, almond flour cookies, and fat bombs. These desserts use low-carb ingredients such as cream cheese, coconut flour, and sugar-free sweeteners to satisfy your sweet tooth without breaking your carb goals.

Final Thoughts

Low-carb appetizers can be flavorful, satisfying, and easy to make. From crispy avocado chips to creamy salmon cucumber bites, there are plenty of options that fit a low-carb or keto lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

These 13 ideas show how simple swaps can turn everyday snacks into low-carb favorites.

Whether you’re preparing for a party or just want better snack choices, these appetizers offer something for every craving.

For more low-carb recipes, nutrition tips, and ideas to support your diet, visit our website and explore our latest posts.