How To Cook Healthy Shrimp Recipes
Diana Ketchen
Nutrition
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Healthy Recipes
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Weight Loss
6 minute read
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, if you’re looking for an easy way to add more lean proteins and vitamins to your diet, shrimp is a great choice. Not only is it super versatile—it pairs well with almost any vegetable or pasta dish—but it’s also low in fat and calories, meaning you can enjoy it guilt-free. With that in mind, here are five delicious and healthy shrimp recipes for weight loss that will make eating healthy easy and enjoyable.
Delicious and Healthy Shrimp Appetizer Recipe
If you're a seafood enthusiast looking for a mouthwatering and nutritious treat, you've come to the right place. This recipe showcases succulent shrimp, expertly paired with wholesome ingredients to create an appetizer that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also keeps you feeling nourished and energized.
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer
This easy appetizer is perfect for any party or gathering. Combine:
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2 cups of diced avocado
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1 cup of diced tomatoes
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1/2 cup of diced onions
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1/4 cup of jalapeños
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2 cups of cooked shrimp Season with
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salt and pepper, and lime juice to taste
Serve with tortilla chips or on top of a salad.
Avocados are a great source of healthy fats, which can help keep you full and satisfied. Tomatoes and onions add a delicious sweetness and crunch to the dish, while the jalapeños give it a nice kick of spice. This appetizer is sure to be a hit with your guests!
Delicious and Healthy Shrimp Recipes for Dinner
Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to add a healthy twist to your dinner table, get ready to savor the delightful flavors of these nourishing shrimp creations. Let's embark on a culinary journey that combines deliciousness and wellness in every bite!
Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
This lightened-up version of the classic Italian dish calls for zucchini noodles instead of pasta, making this meal even healthier. You'll need the following:
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1 lb of large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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3 tablespoons butter
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1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
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juice from 1/2 lemon
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
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salt & pepper to taste
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the garlic and cook until fragrant (about one minute). Then add in the shrimp, butter, white wine or chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Cook until the shrimp is cooked through, then remove from the heat. Over medium-high heat, cook the zucchini noodles in another skillet until they're just tender (about three minutes). Once done cooking, season both dishes with salt & pepper to taste before serving together warm with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Shrimp Fajitas
These fajitas are flavorful yet light enough to be considered part of a healthy meal plan. You'll need the following:
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1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
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1 tablespoon olive oil,
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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1/2 teaspoon chili powder
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1/2 teaspoon cumin
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4 bell peppers (sliced into thin strips)
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2 small onions (sliced into thin strips)
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Salt & pepper to taste
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add in the garlic and cook until fragrant (about one minute). Next, add in your shrimp, chili powder, and cumin before stirring everything together so all ingredients are evenly coated with spices.
Cook until the shrimp are cooked through, then remove from the heat before adding your bell peppers and onions back into your pan along with some salt & pepper to taste before stirring everything together again. Serve immediately warm on tortillas or lettuce wraps loaded with fresh guacamole if desired!
Shrimp Tacos
These tacos are sure to be a hit at any gathering! You'll need the following:
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1lb raw shrimp (peeled & deveined)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 cloves minced garlic,
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juice from ½ lime plus extra wedges for garnish
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1 tablespoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon cumin
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½ teaspoon oregano
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¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
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pinch of sugar
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6-8 corn tortillas
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1 cup shredded cabbage
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves & stems plus extra for garnish
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add in your olive oil, followed by your minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about one minute. Then add in your shrimp, followed by chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of sugar, stirring everything together so all ingredients are evenly coated with spices cooking until shrimp is cooked through about 3-4 minutes before removing from heat.
Meanwhile, warm corn tortillas on the stovetop or microwave them briefly before assembling tacos. First, start by layering the bottom of each taco shell with a heaping spoonful of cabbage. Followed by a few pieces of cooked shrimp, some fresh chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and additional toppings as desired, such as sour cream, avocados, and salsa. Serve while still warm, topped off with fresh lime wedges & extra chopped cilantro if desired!
Final Thoughts
Shrimp is an excellent choice for those looking to add more lean protein and vitamins to their diet. Shrimp is versatile, low in fat and calories, and pairs well with almost any vegetable or pasta dish. Four delicious and healthy shrimp recipes are Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Appetizer, Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles, Shrimp Fajitas, and Shrimp Tacos.
FAQs
What makes shrimp a healthy choice?
Shrimp is a great source of high-quality protein and is low in calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It also contains essential nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.
Are healthy shrimp recipes easy to prepare?
Yes, healthy shrimp recipes can be simple and easy to prepare. Many recipes require minimal cooking time, making them perfect for quick and delicious meals that fit into busy lifestyles.
Are healthy shrimp recipes suitable for special diets?
Yes, many healthy shrimp recipes can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. For example, they can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free ingredients or modified to be dairy-free by using plant-based alternatives. Always check the individual recipe instructions for specific dietary considerations.
Are healthy shrimp recipes kid-friendly?
Yes, many kids enjoy shrimp due to its mild flavor and tender texture. By incorporating kid-friendly seasonings and accompaniments, you can create healthy shrimp dishes that the whole family will love.
Are healthy shrimp recipes suitable for weight management?
Yes, healthy shrimp recipes can be a valuable addition to a weight management plan. With their high protein content and relatively low-calorie count, shrimp can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, making them a great option for those watching their weight.
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