Keto Grocery List: Low-Carb Foods to Buy (and What to Skip)
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Starting keto is much easier with the right food in your kitchen. This grocery list covers the low-carb basics, organized by store section, plus what to leave on the shelf. New to keto? Read our keto diet for beginners guide first.
Vegetables (low-carb)
- Leafy greens: spinach, kale, romaine, arugula
- Broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts
- Zucchini, cucumber and celery
- Bell peppers, mushrooms and asparagus
- Green beans and cabbage
- Avocados (technically a fruit, and a keto staple)
Protein
- Salmon, sardines, tuna and other fish
- Eggs
- Chicken and turkey
- Beef, pork and lamb (choose unprocessed cuts)
- Shrimp and other shellfish
- Tofu and tempeh
Dairy and fats
- Plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
- Cheese: cheddar, mozzarella, feta, parmesan
- Butter and cream, in moderation
- Extra virgin olive oil and avocado oil
- Nuts and seeds: almonds, walnuts, pecans, chia, flax
Fruit (small portions)
- Raspberries, blackberries and strawberries
- Lemons and limes for flavor
Pantry and drinks
- Herbs, spices and sugar-free seasonings
- Mustard, hot sauce and vinegar
- Unsweetened almond milk
- Coffee and tea (unsweetened)
- Sparkling water
- Sugar-free electrolyte powder for the first weeks
What to skip
- Bread, pasta, rice, cereal and crackers
- Sugary drinks, juice and sweets
- Beans and lentils (high in carbs)
- Potatoes, corn and other starchy vegetables
- Most fruit, like bananas, grapes and mangoes
- “Low-fat” products, which often add sugar
Tip: Harvard nutrition experts point out that keto can be low in fiber. Fill up on non-starchy vegetables, nuts and seeds, and favor olive oil, fish and nuts over processed meats and butter.
Make it easier
- Keto cookbook for weekly meal ideas
- Digital food scale to learn portion sizes
- Meal prep containers for grab-and-go lunches
- Reusable grocery bags for your weekly shop
Related reading
Sources
This article is for information only and is not medical advice. See our Medical Disclaimer.
