If you're looking for a delicious and healthy seafood option, grilled shrimp is a great choice. Not only is it low in calories, with one serving containing just 45 calories, but it also provides a range of important nutrients like protein, vitamin B12, and selenium. Whether you're trying to lose weight or just want to eat more seafood, grilled shrimp is a tasty and nutritious option.
In addition to being low in calories, grilled shrimp is also a good source of protein. One serving contains around 9 grams of protein, making it a filling and satisfying option. And because shrimp is naturally low in fat and carbohydrates, it's a great choice for anyone following a low-carb or low-fat diet.
In this article, we'll explore some tips for making perfect grilled shrimp, share some delicious recipes and marinades, and highlight the many health benefits of this tasty seafood option.
Nutritional Benefits of Grilled Shrimp
As we mentioned earlier, grilled shrimp is a great source of important nutrients like protein, vitamin B12, and selenium. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health and brain function. Shrimp is also low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight.
How to Make Perfect Grilled Shrimp
Grilling shrimp is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. Here are some tips for making perfect grilled shrimp:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers and brush with a marinade of your choice (see our suggestions below).
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
Grilled shrimp can be served on their own as a delicious appetizer or added to salads, tacos, or pasta dishes for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Grilled Shrimp: A Low-Calorie Protein Option
Grilled shrimp is a great choice for anyone looking for a low-calorie, high-protein option. One serving contains just 45 calories and around 9 grams of protein, making it a filling and satisfying choice for any meal.
Spicy Grilled Shrimp Recipe
If you like your food with a little kick, this spicy grilled shrimp recipe is the perfect choice. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the marinade, combine the garlic, olive oil, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Thread shrimp onto skewers and brush with the marinade. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Best Marinades for Grilled Shrimp
One of the best things about grilled shrimp is that it pairs well with a wide range of marinades and flavors. Here are some of our top picks for marinades for grilled shrimp:
- Lemon garlic marinade
- Cajun marinade
- Tandoori marinade
- Soy ginger marinade
- Honey mustard marinade
- Chili lime marinade
Health Benefits of Eating Grilled Shrimp
In addition to being low in calories and high in protein, grilled shrimp also provides a range of important health benefits. Some of the top health benefits of eating grilled shrimp include:
- Rich in antioxidants - shrimp contains a range of antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage.
- Heart-healthy - shrimp is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health and can help reduce your risk of heart disease.
- Boosts brain function - the omega-3 fatty acids in shrimp are also important for brain health and can help improve memory and cognitive function.
- Supports healthy bone growth - shrimp is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, two important minerals for healthy bone growth.
By adding grilled shrimp to your diet, you can enjoy these and many other health benefits.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Perfect for BBQs
Another great thing about grilled shrimp is that they are perfect for BBQs and outdoor gatherings. Here are some tips for making delicious grilled shrimp skewers for your next BBQ:
- Choose large shrimp and thread them onto skewers with your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes.
- Brush with a flavorful marinade and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Serve as a delicious and nutritious appetizer or main dish for your next outdoor gathering.
Why Grilled Shrimp is a Good Choice for Weight Loss
If you're trying to lose weight, grilled shrimp is a great choice. Not only is it low in calories, with just 45 calories per serving, but it's also high in protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. And because shrimp is low in fat and carbs, it's a great choice for anyone following a low-fat or low-carb diet.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe
If you're a fan of tacos, you'll love this delicious grilled shrimp tacos recipe. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
To make the shrimp, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Thread shrimp onto skewers and brush with the marinade. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Serve on warm corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, diced avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Kabobs
For a tasty and nutritious meal, try these grilled shrimp and vegetable kabobs. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the kabobs, thread shrimp and vegetables onto skewers. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Grilled shrimp is a delicious and nutritious seafood option that provides important nutrients like protein, vitamin B12, and selenium. It is also a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of heart disease.
5 FAQ About Grilled Shrimp
1. Is Grilled Shrimp a healthy food option?
Yes, grilled shrimp is considered a healthy food option as it is low in calories, high in protein, and contains essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.
2. How many calories does one serving of grilled shrimp contain?
One serving of grilled shrimp contains approximately 45 calories.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of eating grilled shrimp?
Eating grilled shrimp has a number of nutritional benefits. It is rich in protein, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients that can help boost overall health.
4. Can grilled shrimp be cooked without oil?
Yes, grilled shrimp can be cooked without oil. It can be grilled using non-stick grill pan or grilling mats that don't require any oil or fat to cook the shrimp.
5. What are the different ways to serve grilled shrimp?
Grilled shrimp can be served in a variety of ways. It can be served as a main dish with a salad, steamed vegetables, or rice. It can also be served as an appetizer, in tacos, or mixed with pasta for a delicious shrimp pasta dish.