keto lunch ideas

Keto Lunch Ideas: 23 Quick and Easy Low-Carb Lunch Options to Try Today in the UK!

Written by: Heidi Normanton

|

|

Time to read 18 min

Fed up with the same old lunches? 


Stuck in a rut with your midday munch on the keto diet? Well, we feel your pain!


At Heylo, we’ve whipped up some of our favourite keto meal ideas to keep you full and sticking to your low-carb goals on your lunch break. 


No more bland meals. Only flavour-packed dishes that’ll make your lunchtime exciting again.


Short on time? No problem.


These aren’t just quick fixes - they’re proper meals that’ll keep you satisfied and in ketosis. Our easy keto recipes for lunch tiime offer convenience and variety, perfect for beginners looking to adopt a low-carb lifestyle. 


Let's talk some recipes that’ll transform your midday meals and keep your colleagues eyeing your lunchbox...

keto lunch ideas low carb uk

Heylo’s Top Keto Lunch Ideas for the UK

We've all been there. Staring at the fridge, wondering what on earth to pack for lunch that won't kick us out of ketosis. 


And the temptation of picking up a carb-packed meal deal on the way to work has your low-carb diet looking a little bleak!


Fear not! At Heylo, we've got a treat for you that will help you fight those temptations.


Our team of food lovers (who just happen to be low-carb enthusiasts) have put their heads together. The result? A mouthwatering list of keto lunch ideas that'll make your work colleagues green with envy.


From quick fixes to gourmet delights, we've got something for everyone. Whether you're a busy bee or a kitchen wizard, these lunch options will keep you fuelled and focused all afternoon.

low carb lunch ideas

Creamy Keto Tomato Soup

This keto-friendly tomato soup is a low-carb option that can be easily packed into a flask to be reheated at work or school.


Using fresh, ripe tomatoes as the base gives it a rich flavour while keeping those pesky carbs in check.


To get the creamy texture, I add heavy cream or coconut milk, which is a healthy fat for a keto diet. Keto is high-fat afterall!


For a nutritional boost, I often add roasted red peppers and a bit of garlic. These add to the flavour profile and make this a healthy lunch.


To make it fun, I like to top it with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.


This creamy keto tomato soup goes well with our low-carb bread or keto crackers for dipping. Check them out!

Creamy Keto Tomato Soup

Creamy Keto Tomato Soup

Prep time

10 Minutes

Cook time

20 Minutes

Servings

12

Category

Lunch

Keto Buffalo Cauliflower

Our Keto Buffalo Cauliflower is a spicy and satisfying alternative to traditional buffalo wings. It’s also tasty and a low-carb lunch option. 


As a keto dieter, I’ve found this recipe to be a game-changer for my midday meals. And like our Mac & Cheese recipe, is a sneaky great way of packing our diet with greens!


To make this low-carb version:


  1. Cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets 
  2. Coat them in a mixture of almond flour, spices and beaten eggs 
  3. Bake until crispy
  4. Toss the baked cauliflower in a homemade buffalo sauce, which I make with hot sauce, butter and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
  5. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dip as a perfect low-carb lunch.
Keto Buffalo Cauliflower

Keto Buffalo Cauliflower

Prep time

10 Minutes

Cook time

40 Minutes

Servings

8

Category

Lunch

Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheddar Cheese

Mac and cheese are usually off-limits for keto dieters, but not anymore!


I’ve found that this Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is one of the most satisfying, easy keto lunch ideas you can make. It’s creamy, cheesy, and delicious, so add it to your keto lunch repertoire.


To make this, I steam or roast cauliflower florets until tender. Then I make a cheesy sauce with a blend of cheddar cheese and other keto-friendly options like parmesan or cream cheese. The trick is to get a sauce that’s thick enough to coat the cauliflower without being too heavy.


You can add bacon bits, diced jalapeños or even a sprinkle of crushed pork rinds on top for extra crunch. But remember to check labels for hidden carbs!


The best thing about this keto mac and cheese... it's a great way to sneak in extra veggies, while still having a comfort food classic!

Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheddar Cheese

Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheddar Cheese

Prep time

10 Minutes

Cook time

20 Minutes

Servings

4

Category

Lunch

Low Carb Bagels with Avocado, Eggs and Kimchi

Combining gut health boosting with a filling low-carb meal Low, low-carb bagels with Avocado, Eggs, and Kimchi is a keto-friendly lunch option winner!


This recipe shows you how keto lunch recipes can be both healthy and satisfying. 


This lunch uses our own Heylo bagels, allowing you to enjoy this bakery favourite, even while following a special diet. 


Our keto-friendly bagels are a great alternative to traditional bagels, which are bursting with a crazy amount of carbs.


Just add butter, sliced or mashed avocado and top with the poached eggs. Finally, top with a generous helping of kimchi.


This meal is not only delicious, it’s a nutritional powerhouse. The avocado is healthy fats and fibre, and the eggs are a complete protein source. Ideal for the bodybuilders out there looking for a pre or post-workout meal without the carbs.

Low Carb Bagels with Avocado, Eggs and Kimchi

Low Carb Bagels with Avocado, Eggs and Kimchi

Prep time

0 Minutes

Cook time

10 Minutes

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

Keto Cheese Bacon Soup

Looking for a comforting, keto-friendly lunch option that will leave you full until dinner? 


This high-protein soup combines the richness of cheese and bacon and is an indulgent treat that’s still keto.


The base of the soup is heavy cream and chicken broth which gives it a creamy texture without the carbs. I really love how the sharp cheddar cheese melts into the broth and creates a velvety texture that’s impossible to resist.


The crispy bacon adds a nice crunch and smokiness to the soup.


You can add low carb veggies like cauliflower or spinach for extra nutrients, or serve with some of our keto bread or low-carb rolls to dip!


I like to make a big batch and portion it out for meal prep. That way I have a quick and satisfying lunch throughout the week. Easy :)

Keto Cheese Bacon Soup

Keto Cheese Bacon Soup

Prep time

10 Minutes

Cook time

30 Minutes

Servings

4

Category

Lunch

Low Carb BLT sandwich

When it comes to keto friendly lunch options the Low Carb BLT sandwich is one I come back to time and time again.


The classic combo of bacon, lettuce and tomato can be easily adapted to a keto lifestyle. By using Heylo’s Artisan Seeded Loaf or Lighter White, I can have this favourite sandwich without derailing my low carb diet.


The beauty of this keto lunch is it’s simplicity and quickness. With just a few fresh ingredients I can make a meal in about 10 minutes.


And to be honest... It’s good for any time of day, whether I’m looking for a big brunch or a quick dinner.


The protein from the bacon keeps me full and the fresh veggies provide nutrients. What's not to love about the BLT?

Low Carb BLT sandwich

Low Carb BLT sandwich

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

5 Minutes

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

Low Carb Cheese on Toast with a Mexican Twist

Cheese on toast is a comfort food in the UK, but I found a low-carb version with a Mexican twist that’s perfect for keto dieters.


This easy keto lunch takes 10 minutes to make and is great for busy days when you need a quick meal, but also want something with a little different to the norm!


  1. Simply start with three slices of Heylo Keto Bread.
  2. Toast one side of the bread under the grill
  3. Then flip and top with a big handful of grated cheese. For extra flavour I add 30g of homemade pico de gallo to give it a Mexican twist.
  4. Once assembled I pop it back under the grill until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

The result is a delicious combination of crispy bread, melted cheese and zesty salsa that will be a new addition to your keto recipe book.

Low Carb Cheese on Toast with a Mexican Twist

Low Carb Cheese on Toast with a Mexican Twist

Prep time

5

Cook time

5

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

New York Deli Style Low Carb Bagel

Looking for a New York deli experience without the carb overload? 


I found the solution: Heylo’s Low Carb Seeded Bagels. With only 3g of carbs per serve these bagels are a game changer for keto lunch ideas.


They’re designed to replicate the taste and texture of a traditional New York style bagel, and are great for making filling lunches with quick prep time. 


I like to toast them for extra crunch and top with cream cheese or avocado spread. They’re good for hot sandwiches too so they’re a staple in my keto meal planning.


High in fibre and low in calories, they keep me full without sugar spikes. They’re a must try for anyone looking for alternatives to their favourties.

New York Deli Style Low Carb Bagel

New York Deli Style Low Carb Bagel

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

5 Minutes

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

Keto Chorizo Omelette

Sick of bread, bagels, and buns? A Keto Chorizo Omelette is a great alternative to sandwiches.


Combining the richness of eggs with the spicy kick of chorizo. I can whip it up in no time so it’s perfect for busy lunch times.


  1. I start by browning the diced chorizo in a pan.
  2. Then I whisk the eggs with a splash of heavy cream and pour over the chorizo. 
  3. As the eggs set I add a sprinkle of cheese and fold the omelette in half. 

The result is a protein packed, low carb meal that keeps me full all afternoon.


You can customise it with different low carb veggies or cheese to suit your taste or just use what I have on hand.

Keto Chorizo Omelette

Keto Chorizo Omelette

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

10 Minutes

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

Wrapped Asparagus with Bacon

Along with the chorizo omelette, wrapped asparagus with bacon is another keto lunch I love. 


This low carb, gluten free dish combines fresh asparagus spears with crispy bacon, and what a combination it is!


  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. 
  2. Trim the asparagus ends and wrap each spear with a strip of thick cut bacon.  Arrange them on a baking tray and season with salt and pepper 
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness
  4. Broil for an extra 2-3 minutes for extra crunch.

When serving, I often top with grated Parmesan cheese and low-carb ranch for dipping.


This is also great for charcuterie boards or brunch spreads, a nice mix of textures and flavours.

Wrapped Asparagus with Bacon

Wrapped Asparagus with Bacon

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

15 Minutes

Servings

10

Category

Lunch

Keto Coleslaw

Keto coleslaw is a tasty and refreshing side dish perfect for summer BBQs or quick lunch.


It’s easy to make and can be customised to your taste.


I often add diced red onion and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavour and nutrients. And you can't go wrong with extra salad and veg!


This light salad goes well with other keto options like chicken salad or grilled meats. You can even use it as a topping for burgers or wraps.


For a more filling meal I sometimes add diced avocado or crumbled bacon to make a creamy avocado coleslaw.


Keto coleslaw is a must-have in any low-carb lunch rotation! Try it out!

Best Keto Coleslaw

Best Keto Coleslaw

Prep time

10 Minutes

Cook time

0 Minutes

Servings

6

Category

Lunch

Keto Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Cream cheese-filled bell peppers are a tasty keto lunch and a favourite at Heylo. They combine flavours with crunch and keep you coming back for more.


I like this dish because you can change up the flavours by adding different herbs or cheese to the filling. 


You can really create the perfect version for your tastebuds, you just need to experiment!


For a Mediterranean version I’ll add feta and olives. Sometimes I’ll even use stuffed avocados instead of peppers for a creamier option.


These stuffed peppers are keto-friendly and super filling. Get them on the menu!

Keto Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Keto Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Prep time

30 Minutes

Cook time

0 Minutes

Servings

12

Category

Lunch

Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Mastering the perfect scrambled eggs is a must for any ketoer. It's almost a rite of passage!


I’ve found that the key to this low-carb lunch is quality ingredients: three eggs, butter, salt, and pepper. Simple!


Well not so quick... The most important part of this recipe is in the way you prep!


  1. I whisk the eggs in a bowl until smooth then melt butter in a non stick pan over medium heat being careful not to burn.
  2. Once the butter’s melted I pour in the whisked eggs and gently stir for 1-2 minutes until creamy. Don’t overcook I remove the eggs from the heat just before I want them to be done as they will continue to cook off the heat.
  3. I often add herbs or cheese to my scrambled eggs for extra flavour. Fresh chives or a sprinkle of cheddar is all I need.

I like these as a breakfast on their own but I also use them as part of a bigger keto lunch. With avocado or a side salad they make for a filling and nutritious meal that keeps me going all day long! Sometimes i don't even need a dinner!

Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

5 Minutes

Servings

1-2

Category

Lunch

Keto Chicken Milanese

One of my favourite keto lunch options is a low carb version of the classic Chicken Milanese. 


I’ve modified this recipe to use Heylo Seeded Low Carb Bread instead of breadcrumbs.


I often serve this with a simple salad for a full lunch. The cheddar cheese and chicken provide protein and calcium, and the onion provides flavour and nutrients. This Keto-Friendly Chicken Milanese is satisfying and low-carb, but also nutritionally packed!


It’s a flexible dish that can be topped with different toppings or served with a sauce. I sometimes garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavour or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a little kick!

Keto Chicken Milanese

Keto Chicken Milanese

Prep time

15 Minutes

Cook time

25 Minutes

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

Keto Lasagna

Layering flavours and textures, our keto lasagna is a delicious low-carb alternative to the pasta version.


We use Palmini's low-carb lasagna sheets instead of traditional pasta, keeping the carb count down without sacrificing that classic lasagna feel. The hearty ground beef filling, seasoned with garlic, onion, and herbs, brings rich flavour to every bite.


For creaminess, we blend ricotta, cream cheese, and mozzarella, creating a cheesy layer that rivals any traditional lasagna. The marinara sauce adds a tangy sweetness that ties all the flavours together.


To get that authentic lasagna texture, we top it with a generous amount of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It bakes to golden perfection in just 30 minutes.


This keto lasagna serves 8 and pairs brilliantly with a crisp salad and Heylo's Low Carb Keto Bread Rolls


At only 9g net carbs per portion, it's a guilt-free way to enjoy this Italian classic.

Keto Lasagna

Keto Lasagna

Prep time

30 Minutes

Cook time

60 Minutes

Servings

8

Category

Lunch

Keto Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

A sizzling skillet of keto Philly cheesesteak is a low-carb twist on the classic sandwich. Combining juicy ground beef, colourful veggies, and melty provolone cheese for a filling and flavourful meal you will come back to again and again.


By using cauliflower instead of bread, we keep the carb count low while still getting that satisfying Philly cheesesteak experience. The cauliflower adds a nice texture and soaks up all the delicious flavours.


When making this, I use a mix of diced and sliced onions, along with bell peppers and mushrooms, to get that authentic cheesesteak taste. The beef broth and half and half create a rich, creamy sauce that brings it all together.


With under 9g net carbs per portion and enough to serve 5, it's a great option for family breakfasts or meal prep. 


Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for those busy mornings when you need to prep a hearty, low-carb meal for lunch!

Keto Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

Keto Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

20 Minutes

Servings

5

Category

Lunch

Keto Quorn Sausage Stew

Craving a hearty low-carb stew but worried about hidden carbs wrecking your diet plans? Our Low Carb Veggie Sausage Stew fits the bill. It's tasty, filling, and perfect for relaxed low-carb diets.


Here's how to make it:

  1. Fry shallots and garlic for 5 minutes.
  2. Add tomato puree, veggie Worcester sauce, stock, and thyme. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Fry veggie sausages separately until golden.
  4. Chop sausages, add to the sauce.
  5. Top with grated cheese, bake for 10 minutes.

It's great not just for low-carb and keto dieters but also for vegetarians or those cutting down on meat. You see, low-carb and keto doesn't HAVE to be all about meat!


Serve with Heylo low-carb bakery goodies to soak up the gravy.


Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3 days. Just reheat and enjoy!

Low Carb Veggie Sausage Stew

Keto Quorn Sausage Stew

Prep time

10 Minutes

Cook time

20 Minutes

Servings

4

Category

Lunch

Keto Rolls Baked with Chicken and Cheese

Looking for a keto-friendly lunch option that is simple, quick, protein-packed, and delicious? 


Try our Keto Hot Chicken and Cheese Rolls. They're a tasty combo of spicy chicken and melty cheese in a low-carb roll that will have you forgetting Subway exists!


To make them:

  1. Preheat oven to 180C. Place Heylo Lighter White roll bases in an oven dish.
  2. Mix chicken chunks with hot sauce in a bowl.
  3. Layer mayo, cheese, saucy chicken, and more cheese on roll bases.
  4. Add roll tops, brush with mustard, sprinkle with cheese.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes until golden and gooey.

At 5g carbs per serving, these rolls are perfect for keto diets. They're quick to make - just 20 minutes total.


Serve with a side salad for a complete meal. And if you are getting a little too much of our feathered friends in your diet, you can easily swap the chicken for other meats or veggies to suit your taste.

Keto Rolls Baked with Chicken and Cheese

Keto Rolls Baked with Chicken and Cheese

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

15 Minutes

Servings

4

Category

Lunch

Keto Philly Cheesesteak Omelette

Craving a Philly cheesesteak but sticking to keto? Our Keto Philly Cheesesteak Omelette is the perfect solution.


This low-carb marvel packs all the flavours of the classic sandwich into a protein-rich egg dish. At just 4 net carbs per serving, it's a keto dream come true.


Tender shaved ribeye, caramelised onions, and crisp green peppers are nestled in a fluffy egg blanket, all topped with gooey provolone cheese. It's a taste sensation that'll transport you straight to the streets of Philadelphia.


For the ultimate keto feast, serve it alongside Heylo's finest low-carb bread, lightly toasted and buttered. The combination of the cheesy, meaty omelette with the crisp, buttery toast is simply irresistible.


So next time you're hit with a cheesesteak craving, don't despair. This Keto Philly Cheesesteak Omelette has got your back.

Keto Philly Cheesesteak Omelette

Keto Philly Cheesesteak Omelette

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

15 Minutes

Servings

2

Category

Lunch

Low Carb Hot Dog

While cheese-based dishes are great keto options, sometimes you crave a classic American favourite: the hot dog.


It's now super easy to enjoy this classic without the carbs. 


The secret? Heylo's Sub Rolls


At just 3.5g of carbs per roll, they're the perfect vessel for all your keto hot dog dreams.

This simple yet delicious creation is perfect for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal. 


I like to mix things up by trying different toppings. A handful of crispy onions adds a nice crunch, while classic condiments like mustard and sugar-free ketchup add flavour without compromising your keto goals. 


The best part? It's ready in just 20 minutes!

Low Carb Hot Dog

Low Carb Hot Dog

Prep time

10 Minutes

Cook time

10 Minutes

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

Low-Carb Pizza Boats

Creativity in the kitchen often leads to great discoveries and low carb pizza boats are no exception. 


Using a Heylo Lighter White Sub as the base I can make a meal in 15 minutes.


To make these pizza boats I grill the sub halves to crisp the edges. Then I spread homemade pizza sauce and top with grated cheese and my favourite toppings. Mushrooms and olive paste are my go to but the options are endless.


After a few more minutes under the grill I have a melty, crispy low carb meal high in protein and full of flavour.


The customisable toppings allow me to mix it up and keep my lunches interesting. And with 6g of carbs per serve they fit into my macros.


Whether I’m meal prepping for the week or serving a quick family dinner these low carb pizza boats are a staple in my keto recipes.

Low-Carb Pizza Boats

Low-Carb Pizza Boats

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

10 Minutes

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

Low-Carb Tuna Mayo Rolls

Looking for a quick and easy low carb lunch option I found the answer: Ultimate Low Carb Tuna Mayo Rolls. 


This is protein-rich tuna with creamy mayonnaise wrapped in a Heylo Lighter White Roll. It's a classic staple of UK lunches across the country!


The quickness of it makes it perfect for busy days when you need a protein packed lunch on the go. I like to add some onions to add a bit of zing!


I found that this low-carb tuna roll not only fills me up but also keeps me energised for the rest of the afternoon. No 3pm carb-crashing!

Low-Carb Tuna Mayo Rolls

Low-Carb Tuna Mayo Rolls

Prep time

10 Minutes

Cook time

0 Minutes

Servings

1

Category

Lunch

Pesto Chicken

Pesto chicken is a fantastic option for keto lunchers and a big favourite at Heylo!


This super tasty, easy-to-make recipe is packed with protein and other nutrients. With only 5.4g net carbs per serving, it's perfect for low-carb dieters!


To make this mouthwatering meal:


  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper, fry in butter until golden.
  2. Mix pesto sauce with double cream for the sauce.
  3. Place chicken in a baking dish, add olives and minced garlic.
  4. Pour pesto cream mixture over the top.
  5. Bake for 20-30 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle cheese on top before serving.

Serve it with a green salad for a light meal, or pair with Heylo's low-carb keto rolls for something more substantial. 


Ready in just 35 minutes, it's great for busy days.

Pesto Chicken

Pesto Chicken

Prep time

5 Minutes

Cook time

30 Minutes

Servings

2

Category

Lunch

low carb lunch ideas uk

And Finally On... Heylo’s Top Easy Keto Lunch Ideas

With these low-carb keto lunch ideas in your back pocket, you shouldn't have any problem getting your packed lunch prep in order!


These meals are filling and easy to make, often under 30 minutes. They use keto-friendly ingredients like avocados, leafy greens and lean meats, so you get nutritious meals that fit your diet and will keep you full and energised during your afternoon at work.


With Heylo, you can enjoy some of the foods you wouldn't normally be able to have while low-carb, and that is a real game-changer for prepping lunches. From sandwiches to bagels, we’ve got you covered. 


Happy lunching!

heidi normanton

Heidi Normanton

Heidi Normanton is the founder of Heylo, an online platform for low-carb living. With her expertise in low-carb products, she curates trusted brands and offers expert advice. Through Heylo, Heidi aims to empower people to take control of their eating habits and understand the broader impacts of low-carb living on overall health.