20 Delicious and Easy Keto-Friendly Meals to Try Today
Introduction
Start your keto journey with these mouthwatering and simple meal ideas!
The ketogenic diet has gained widespread popularity over recent years due to its numerous health benefits. This low-carb, high-fat eating plan can help regulate blood sugar levels, improve metabolism, increase mental clarity, and support weight loss. If you’re new to the world of keto or just need some fresh meal inspiration, this article is for you! We have compiled a list of 20 delicious and easy keto-friendly meals that will keep your taste buds happy while adhering to the dietary guidelines.
1.
Keto Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with this protein-packed scramble, featuring eggs, bacon, and cheddar cheese. This meal offers a hearty serving of healthy fats and keeps you full until lunchtime.
Ingredients:
– 8 large eggs
– 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups spinach or other low-carb veggies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the bacon until crisp. Remove from the pan, leaving behind some of the grease.
3. In the same skillet, add eggs and whisk to scramble. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in cooked bacon, spinach or other veggies, and shredded cheese. Continue cooking until the eggs are set and cheese is melted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
2.
Spinach Artichoke Fathead Pizza
This low-carb pizza alternative features a cheesy crust made from mozzarella, almond flour, and cream cheese. Top it with spinach and artichokes for a keto-friendly meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
– For the crust:
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 3 oz cream cheese, softened
– Toppings:
– 12 oz cream cheese
– 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 6 oz jarred marinated artichokes, drained and roughly chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine shredded mozzarella and cream cheese. Microwave for 45 seconds, stir, and continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the mixture is smooth and melted.
3. Add almond flour and one egg to the melted cheese mixture and mix well. Spread onto the lined baking sheet, forming a circular pizza crust about ¼-inch thick. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
4. While the crust bakes, prepare your spinach artichoke topping by mixing cream cheese with chopped spinach and artichokes in a separate bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Once the pizza crust has cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese mixture over it and top with marinated artichokes. Bake for an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let it cool slightly before cutting into slices to serve.
3.
Keto-Friendly Taco Salad
This vibrant dish combines all the flavors of your favorite tacos, minus the carbs! Serve it in a large bowl for family-style dining or individual servings in small bowls for an easy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained
– 2 cups chopped lettuce (romaine, iceberg, or mixed greens)
– 1 cup shredded cheese of choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ cup diced avocado
– ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Prepare ground beef according to your preferred cooking method. Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, add lettuce, shredded cheese, cherry tomatoes, avocado, sour cream/Greek yogurt, cooked beef, and taco seasoning. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
3. Serve with extra toppings of choice (e.g., jalapeños, guacamole) if desired. Enjoy your keto-friendly taco salad!
4.
Zucchini Boat Fajitas
This zucchini boat recipe replaces tortillas with zucchinis for a low-carb alternative to traditional fajitas. Fill them with your favorite meat, vegetables, and spices for a nutritious and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large zucchinis, cut lengthwise into boats (stem removed)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– ½ red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 bell pepper, seeded and julienned
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 3 tbsp fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush olive oil onto each zucchini boat, ensuring that the cut edges are well coated. Place the boats on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes or until tender but not yet fully cooked.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken strips until browned and nearly cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté red onions and bell peppers for about 5 minutes or until they begin to soften. Stir in minced garlic and fajita seasoning. Cook for an additional minute, then add cooked chicken back into the pan with lime juice and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Divide the fajita mixture between the zucchini boats. Return them to the oven for another 10 minutes or until the fajitas are piping hot and the zucchinis are fully cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite keto-friendly side dishes, such as guacamole or sour cream.
Conclusion