When it comes to a ketogenic diet, many people assume that the only options are meat-based dishes. However, seafood can be a fantastic and healthy addition to your low-carb lifestyle! In fact, many types of fish and shellfish are naturally high in fat, making them perfect for a keto diet. And with the variety of flavors and textures out there, it’s easy to get creative and make some mouth-watering dishes.
From rich and buttery salmon to spicy shrimp skillets, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious keto seafood recipes that will satisfy your cravings and keep you on track with your dietary goals. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out with cooking, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get cooking and enjoy the many benefits of a ketogenic lifestyle.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, with succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impromptu gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic, perfectly complemented by the tender asparagus. A quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet.
4. Drizzle lemon juice over the salmon, then sprinkle garlic on top.
5. Toss asparagus in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Spread asparagus alongside the salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod
Elevate your seafood game with this easy-to-make recipe that yields crispy and flavorful cod fillets.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together egg and lemon zest.
4. Dip each cod fillet into the egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated cod on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Butter Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful salmon dish, featuring a creamy tuscan garlic butter sauce that’s sure to please. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Brush the creamy sauce over the salmon fillets.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Recipe: A bold and flavorful one-pot meal that combines succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook for 5 minutes or until browned, then remove from the skillet.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Add the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
5. Stir everything together, then add the cooked sausage back into the skillet.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Lemon Butter Tilapia
This recipe brings together the classic flavors of lemon and butter to create a moist and flavorful tilapia dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, softened butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the lemon butter mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your low-carb game with these mouthwatering Keto Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, packed with rich flavors and a buttery aroma. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the stuffed mushrooms.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Herb Butter
A decadent yet effortless dish that showcases the tender sweetness of scallops, paired with a rich and aromatic garlic herb butter. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels.
3. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt.
4. Add the garlic, parsley, and chives to the butter; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the scallops to the skillet; sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Shrimp and Pesto
This recipe combines the freshness of zucchini noodles, the sweetness of succulent shrimp, and the boldness of homemade pesto for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. While the shrimp is cooking, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
4. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the shrimp and toss to combine.
5. Stir in the homemade pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Tuna Avocado Boats
Enjoy a refreshing and nutritious snack with this simple recipe that combines the creaminess of avocado, the protein-packed power of tuna, and the crunch of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 12 oz canned tuna in water (drained)
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cucumber slices
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Scoop out a small portion of the avocado flesh to create a “boat” shape.
3. In a bowl, mix together tuna, chopped onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the tuna mixture into each avocado boat.
5. Top each boat with a cucumber slice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter
Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter Recipe
Savor the sweet taste of summer with this indulgent seafood treat. Fresh lobster tails smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce will leave you hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (1 lb each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse lobster tails under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Place lobster tails on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the garlic butter sauce evenly over the lobster tails.
6. Serve immediately with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Keto Seafood Chowder
A rich and flavorful seafood chowder that’s perfect for a chilly day, this recipe combines the freshness of seafood with the creaminess of coconut milk to create a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the seafood and cook until it’s pink and flaky.
3. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in heavy cream and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Mahi Mahi with Avocado Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this simple and mouth-watering recipe for blackened mahi mahi, paired with a fresh and creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Blackened Mahi Mahi:
– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the mahi mahi fillets with the mixture.
4. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the mahi mahi for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until blackened.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño pepper in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the blackened mahi mahi with the Avocado Salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of scallops with the smoky richness of bacon. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 12 large scallops
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap each scallop with a half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bacon is crispy.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the scallops are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto Shrimp and Cauliflower Grits
Experience the comfort of traditional grits with a low-carb twist, featuring succulent shrimp and a creamy cauliflower “grits” base.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 dashes hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles cooked grits.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using). Serve the shrimp on top of the cauliflower “grits” and sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Lemon Pepper Grilled Halibut
Brighten up your plate with the citrusy flavor of lemon and the subtle warmth of pepper, perfectly balanced on a piece of grilled halibut. This refreshing recipe is perfect for a light and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Season halibut fillets with salt and black pepper.
4. Brush the lemon-olive oil mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Grill the halibut for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with lemon zest and chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Keto Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Crab cakes get a low-carb makeover in this indulgent recipe that combines succulent crab meat with crispy breading and creamy remoulade sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, these keto crab cakes are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (drained)
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, almond flour, coconut flour, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry crab cakes for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve with remoulade sauce (see below).
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mixing until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total.
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Broccoli
This flavorful and healthy recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the tender flakiness of baked salmon, accompanied by a burst of nutrients from steamed broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and salt.
5. Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Steam broccoli florets in a separate pot until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Place the steamed broccoli on top of the salmon fillets.
8. Drizzle with remaining garlic butter mixture.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto Shrimp Stir-Fry with Zucchini
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious keto meal that’s quick to prepare! This shrimp stir-fry with zucchini is a perfect combination of savory, spicy, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons avocado oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (make sure it’s sugar-free)
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced zucchinis and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss everything together.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized treats that combine the rich flavors of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and dill. Perfect for a quick snack or as an elegant addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortilla wraps (whole wheat or flour)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, dill, smoked salmon, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Lay out a tortilla wrap and spread about 1 tablespoon of the salmon mixture along the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border on either side.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact roll.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and wraps. Place rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until warm and lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into the world of keto seafood recipes! This article presents 20 mouth-watering dishes that combine the flavors of the sea with a healthy dose of ketosis. From shrimp scampi to salmon, scallops, and lobster, these recipes showcase the best of low-carb cooking. Enjoy garlic butter shrimp, pan-seared scallops, and even keto seafood chowder. Treat your taste buds and your diet with these delicious and easy-to-make keto seafood dishes!
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