If you're on the keto diet and craving seafood, this Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi recipe is the perfect combination of flavor, simplicity, and low-carb goodness. Ready in just 20 minutes, this buttery lemon-garlic shrimp dish is high in protein and packed with heart-healthy fats from olive oil—making it a keto win for busy weeknights.
Why This Recipe Works on Keto
- Low in Carbs: Only 5.3g of total carbohydrates per serving
- High Protein: Each serving delivers a whopping 52.2g of protein to keep you full and energized
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Olive oil and butter provide essential fats to fuel ketosis
- Quick & Easy: Total cook time is just 10 minutes—perfect for busy nights
Ingredients
- 2 lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup butter, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the shrimp in a large baking dish in a single layer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the shrimp.
- Top the shrimp with butter slices.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Serve hot with a side of sautéed vegetables or zucchini noodles for a full keto meal.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 708
- Fat: 53.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 5.3 g
- Sugars: 0.7 g
- Protein: 52.2 g
- Cholesterol: 508 mg
Health Benefits of Shrimp on Keto
Shrimp is not only rich in protein but also an excellent source of iodine and selenium—two essential nutrients often lacking in standard diets. According to the USDA FoodData Central, shrimp is low in calories yet packed with micronutrients, making it a fantastic choice for ketogenic and low-carb lifestyles.
In addition, olive oil—a staple in the Mediterranean diet—has been shown to improve cardiovascular health due to its high content of monounsaturated fats (Healthline).
Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Zoodle it: Serve over zucchini noodles for a pasta-like keto experience.
- Herb swap: Use fresh parsley or thyme instead of oregano for variety.
Make It a Meal
Serve this shrimp scampi alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or with roasted asparagus for a complete, keto-approved dinner. It’s great for family meals or even elegant dinner parties.
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