Low Carb Keto Vegetables

June 11, 2019
Colette-Heimowitz

Written by Colette Heimowitz, M.Sc. on June 11, 2019.

Scientifically reviewed by

Jonathan Clinthorne, Ph.D. Human Nutrition.

Eating keto friendly vegetables is considered a foundation of Atkins. In addition to protein and healthy natural fats, it is essential to consume certain veggies when living a low carb lifestyle; but eating too many veggies, especially starchy ones such as peas and potatoes, can undermine weight-loss and low carb efforts.

During the Atkins® induction phase, you’ll want to consume 12g to 15g net carbs from vegetables each day. Studies on keto diets generally require participants to consume 20g to 50g of net carbs per day, so that means vegetables will account for approximately half of your total net carb intake. We recommend that you focus on eating leafy salad greens and other non-starchy vegetables. These vegetables provide the body with the most antioxidant protection and fiber in combination with the fewest grams of carbs. When shopping or planning your meals, try to remember this keto rule of thumb: The best keto vegetables tend to grow above-ground. Vegetables that grow under the ground—generally, root veggies—are highest in starch.

Keto Vegetables List

Although the ultimate goal is to avoid veggies with a high starch content, it is permissible to consume vegetables that have a slightly higher-carb count. Here are some of our favorite keto approved vegetables, based on their net carbs per 100 gram serving size:

Layout of photos of the best keto vegetables with their net carb count overlaid. They are arranged in order of the least to most net carbs per 100 grams serving, starting with the vegetables with the least amount of carbs on the left.
Layout of photos of the best keto vegetables with their net carb count overlaid. They are arranged in order of the least to most net carbs per 100 grams serving, starting with the vegetables with the least amount of carbs on the left.
  • Asparagus: 1g
  • Spinach: 2g
  • Swiss Chard: 2g
  • Celery: 2g
  • Lettuce: 2g
  • Avocado (technically a fruit): 2g
  • Cabbage: 3g
  • Green Olives: 3g
  • Cucumber: 3g
  • Cauliflower: 3g
  • Zucchini: 3g
  • Tomato: 3g
  • Green Pepper: 3g
  • Red Pepper: 4g
  • Broccoli: 4g
  • Brussels Sprouts: 5g
  • Green Beans: 5g

Pro tip: You can find a full list of acceptable Atkins keto foods here. These ketogenic diet vegetables are the nutrient-dense, high-fiber foundation for the Atkins way of eating.

Vegetables to Avoid on Keto

Rarely do you ever hear someone tell you to avoid vegetables, but when it comes to a low carb keto lifestyle, some veggies can be more harmful than helpful to achieving your goals. As mentioned above, root vegetables typically carry more carbs, which is why they are considered one of the least keto friendly vegetables. Here are some of our most avoided veggies, based on their net carbs per 100 gram serving size:

Layout of photos of the worst keto vegetables with their net carb count overlaid. They are arranged in order of the least to most net carbs per 100 grams serving, starting with the vegetables with the least amount of carbs on the left.
Layout of photos of the worst keto vegetables with their net carb count overlaid. They are arranged in order of the least to most net carbs per 100 grams serving, starting with the vegetables with the least amount of carbs on the left.
  • Rutabaga: 6g
  • Artichoke: 6g
  • Celeriac: 6g
  • Onion: 8g
  • Peas: 9g
  • Beetroot: 7g
  • Butternut Squash: 10g
  • Parsnip: 13g
  • Potato: 15g
  • Corn: 16g
  • Sweet Potato: 17g
  • Yam: 24g
  • Cassava (Yuca): 36g

Pro tip: Onions are often used as a seasoning and are typically not consumed in large amounts; however, it is best to avoid caramelized, grilled, or sautéed onions as they are more likely to be eaten in larger quantities.

Keto Friendly Vegetable Recipes

Looking for ways to prepare your keto approved vegetables? Here are a few of our favorites from the Atkins recipe database.

The veggies you eat play a pivotal role in a successful low carb lifestyle, so try to keep this keto vegetable list in mind. For more keto guidance, check out our keto friendly food list and the foods you should avoid while on keto.

You can also explore our 1,600+ Atkins low carb recipes for
inspiration.

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