Is Octopus Keto?

Seafood
Octopus sticker illustration
KETO VERDICTYES

Octopus is keto-friendly with ~3.7g net carbs per 100g serving. It’s a lean, protein-rich seafood with a unique texture—excellent grilled or braised, especially when paired with added fats.

Octopus is keto-friendly with ~3.7g net carbs per 100g serving. It’s a lean, protein-rich seafood with a unique texture—excellent grilled or braised, especially when paired with added fats.

  • Net carbs (100g)3.7g
  • Protein (100g)14.9g
  • Fat (100g)1g
  • Keto verdictKeto-friendly

NUTRITION FACTS

Per 100g (raw)

Net Carbs
3.7g
Total Carbs
3.7g
Fiber
0g
Protein
14.9g
Fat
1g
Calories
82

Source: USDA FoodData Central

WHY IT'S KETO-FRIENDLY

  • Moderate net carbs: ~3.7g per 100g fits most keto meal plans in sensible portions
  • High protein: 14.9g per 100g supports satiety and muscle maintenance
  • Very lean: Low fat invites olive-oil, butter, or aioli to balance keto macros
  • Nutrient-dense: Rich in vitamin B12, selenium, copper, and iron
  • Tender when properly cooked: Adds variety to seafood rotations
  • Naturally suits Mediterranean prep methods that are keto-friendly

HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Excellent source of vitamin B12 for energy and nervous system support
  • High in selenium for antioxidant defense and thyroid function
  • Provides iron and copper for oxygen transport and metabolism
  • Contains taurine, which may support cardiovascular and eye health
  • Delivers omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for heart and brain
  • Lean protein option to help meet daily protein targets

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

GRILLED MEDITERRANEAN

Simmer until tender (≈45–60 minutes), cool, then grill with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano.

BRAISED IN RED WINE

Braise with dry red wine, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for 1–2 hours until tender.

SPANISH STYLE (PULPO A LA GALLEGA)

Boil, slice, drizzle with olive oil, and finish with paprika and sea salt.

ASIAN SESAME SALAD

Blanch, slice thin, toss with sesame oil, tamari/soy-sauce-low-sodium, ginger, and cucumber.

PRESSURE COOKED

Cook 20–25 minutes in a pressure cooker; finish on a hot grill with garlic and olive oil.

OCTOPUS CARPACCIO

Thinly slice tender cooked octopus; drizzle with olive oil and lemon; serve over arugula.