In the realm of dietary revolutions, the ketogenic, or keto, diet has emerged as a powerhouse for weight loss, cognitive clarity, and an overall boost in health. For those embracing this high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carb diet, finding flavorful yet compliant recipes can be both exciting and a little daunting. Here to simplify your journey is Dr. Josh Axe, a renowned nutrition and health expert, who has curated a delightful selection of keto recipes that not only align with the dietary guidelines but also promise to tantalize your taste buds. Let's dive into these 5 delicious keto recipes.
Avocado and Bacon Salad
Avocado, a staple in the keto diet, meets the savory charm of bacon to create a dish that’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients beneficial for keto followers.
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
- 2 cups of mixed greens
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- 1⁄4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Olive oil, salt, and lemon juice for dressing
Preparation:
- Arrange the greens on a plate, followed by avocado, bacon, cucumber, and onion.
- Drizzle olive oil, add a pinch of salt, and squeeze lemon juice over the salad.
🍽️ Note: Opt for organic, nitrate-free bacon to keep your meal as clean as possible on keto.
Keto Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
This recipe blends rich, flavorful salmon with the zesty touch of lemon, making it a perfect keto dinner option that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
- 2 salmon fillets
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Handful of fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter, then cook the salmon, skin side down for about 4-5 minutes. Flip, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until salmon is just cooked through.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, garlic, and lemon zest. Cook until the garlic softens, then add lemon juice and herbs. Pour this sauce over the salmon.
🐟 Note: Use wild-caught salmon for better taste and nutritional profile.
Dr. Axe’s Special Keto Pizza
Pizza doesn’t have to be off the menu for keto dieters. Dr. Axe’s special keto pizza allows you to enjoy the flavors without the carb overload.
- 1⁄2 cup almond flour
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1⁄2 tsp garlic powder
- 1⁄2 tsp dried oregano
- Your choice of keto-friendly toppings (e.g., olives, mushrooms, pepperoni, spinach)
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix almond flour, mozzarella, eggs, garlic powder, and oregano until a dough forms. Spread this dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to form a crust.
- Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes until it starts to brown. Add toppings and bake for another 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
| Keto-Friendly Toppings | Carbs per Serving |
|---|---|
| Olives | 1.3g |
| Mushrooms | 2.1g |
| Pepperoni | 0.8g |
| Spinach | 1.4g |
🍕 Note: Ensure to calculate the total carb count from all toppings to stay within keto guidelines.
Keto Berry Chia Seed Pudding
Chia seeds, known for their health benefits, make a perfect base for this creamy, satisfying dessert that’s keto-friendly.
- 1⁄2 cup of heavy cream
- 1⁄2 cup of unsweetened almond milk
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp monk fruit sweetener
- 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract
- Fresh or frozen berries for topping
Preparation:
- Mix all ingredients except the berries in a bowl. Stir well to combine. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve topped with fresh or thawed frozen berries.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Transforming a classic comfort dish into a keto-friendly meal, this creamy garlic shrimp “pasta” uses spaghetti squash as an ingenious low-carb substitute.
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
- 1⁄4 cup chicken broth
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1⁄4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half, remove seeds, and bake cut side down for about 30-40 minutes or until tender. Use a fork to scrape out the flesh into “noodles”.
- In a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant, add cream and chicken broth, simmering until thickened. Add shrimp, cook until pink. Mix in parmesan, then combine with the spaghetti squash. Top with parsley.
🍤 Note: Opt for wild-caught shrimp for the best quality and flavor.
Dr. Josh Axe’s curated selection of keto recipes showcases not only the versatility of the keto diet but also the delicious possibilities within its guidelines. From savory salmon to a guilt-free pizza, these dishes offer both nutritional benefits and culinary delights. By following these recipes, you can enjoy a wide array of flavors while keeping carb intake low and health goals on track. Remember, while these recipes simplify your keto journey, ensuring you meet your macros, choosing quality ingredients and mindful preparation will make all the difference.
Can I still lose weight on the keto diet with these recipes?
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Yes, by sticking to the macronutrient ratios of the keto diet (high fat, moderate protein, and low carbs), these recipes can help you maintain ketosis, which supports weight loss when combined with a calorie deficit.
Are these recipes suitable for those with diabetes?
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The keto diet can help manage blood sugar levels, but individual responses vary. Consult with a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have diabetes.
How do I keep my dishes under carb limits with these recipes?
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Use precise measurements of ingredients, especially when dealing with berries or other potentially high-carb toppings. Always account for all ingredients when calculating total carb intake.
Can I modify these recipes to fit my dietary restrictions?
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Absolutely! Adjust ingredients according to allergies or intolerances. For example, replace dairy with coconut milk or switch shrimp for another protein source in the pasta recipe.
