Following the keto diet can make meal-building seem limited and, dare we say, boring. Especially if you're new to it and not yet comfortable enough to experiment on your own. If you feel like you need the approval of a recipe to let you know whether something's keto, and you're struggling coming up with new ideas, we've got you covered. These keto dinner recipes are proof that just because you're eating keto, doesn't mean you have to give up cooking with flair—spices, herbs, marinades, sauces, and salsas are all included.

After you try a few of these recipes, you'll realize that quick and easy keto dinners all abide by a simple formula. Protein and vegetables—especially those made in the oven and dressed up with some spices, good-quality oils, and herbs—are really at the base of it. This is a versatile approach because you can tailor it to your liking, as well as to the ingredients in season in your area. Think about sides as an opportunity to add flavor and healthy fat to your keto plate, so anything made with mayo, butter, olives, avocado, or ghee are perfect choices.

Pesto Chicken With Mozzarella

keto pesto chicken — Waterbury Publications, Inc.

It might seem like a simple thing, but it isn't always easy to make chicken breast taste good. This fool-proof recipe is not only a gold-standard keto dinner in terms of nutrition, but it also packs a ton of flavor (thanks, pesto!).

Get our recipe for Pesto Chicken With Mozzarella.

Grilled Flank Steak With Vegetables and Spicy Aioli

grilled flank steak veggie pockets wasabi macadamia aioli — Waterbury Publications, Inc.

Grilled flank steak is a great idea for a backyard cookout with friends because it's difficult to mess up and impressive to serve—so this is a great keto dinner recipe for two…or 10!

Get our recipe for Grilled Flank Steak With Vegetables and Spicy Aioli.

Spanish Beef Stew With Olives

spanish pepper beef stew with olives in a white bowl — Waterbury Publications

The star of this hearty Spanish goulash is pimiento, the smoked paprika that's the staple of authentic Spanish cooking, while the olives add healthy oils and some crunch.

Get our recipe for Spanish Beef Stew With Olives.

Slow-Cooker BBQ-Flavored Pork With Creamy Slaw

keto shredded pork shoulder in a white bowl — Waterbury Publications, Inc.

When it comes to marrying the keto diet with a busy lifestyle, the slow cooker is your best friend. Seriously, is there anything easier than throwing a piece of pork in there and forgetting about it for a few hours, then enjoying juicy pulled pork for dinner?

Get our recipe for Slow-Cooker BBQ-Flavored Pork With Creamy Slaw.

Butter-Baked Salmon and Asparagus

keto butter baked salmon with asparagus on the side horizontal — Waterbury Publications, Inc.

Salmon and asparagus are a classic pairing, but this baked salmon recipe has an added keto boost—a layer of butter that coats the salmon and the asparagus before they go in the oven.

Get our recipe for Butter-Baked Salmon and Asparagus.

Lamb Chops and Cauliflower Mash

keto lamb chops on cauliflower mash — Waterbury Publications, Inc.

Whip out your cast iron skillet and sear these lamb chops to perfection. The mash is made from cauliflower and makes for a creamy, indulgent side to any keto dinner main.

Get our recipe for Lamb Chops and Cauliflower Mash.

Thai Scallop Curry With Zucchini Noodles

keto thai curry with scallops, zucchini noodles, and shiitake mushrooms on a gray plate with fork — Eat This, Not That!

If you want to treat yourself to a fancy dinner at home, get some fresh scallops and make a quick Thai curry that's ready in just 15 minutes.

Get our recipe for Thai Scallop Curry With Zucchini Noodles.

Paprika Roast Chicken With Savory Green Beans

keto roast chicken on cooling rack with stringbeans — Waterbury Publications, Inc.

A perfect flavorful roast chicken dinner wouldn't be complete without a side of green beans, and this version has bacon in it. Talk about a winner-winner keto dinner.

Get our recipe for Paprika Roast Chicken With Savory Green Beans.

Sheet-Pan Italian Pork Chops

sheet pan pork chops — Waterbury Publications, Inc.

Pork chops are great for busy weeknights because there's not a lot of prep and they cook quickly. You can turn them into a sheet pan keto dinner by baking them with some hearty vegetables.

Get our recipe for Sheet-Pan Italian Pork Chops.