Are you looking for a delicious and healthy way to enjoy shrimp? Look no further! Low-carb diets have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. Not only can they help with weight loss, but they can also improve blood sugar control and even reduce the risk of certain diseases. And what’s better than indulging in a tasty meal that fits your dietary needs?
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering low-carb shrimp recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic dishes like garlic butter shrimp with zucchini noodles to innovative creations like bang bang shrimp lettuce wraps, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to follow and require minimal ingredients. So grab your apron and let’s get started on this culinary journey!
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the natural sweetness of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or using a spiralizer. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to create a creamy sauce.
6. Combine cooked zucchini noodles with the garlic butter shrimp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines succulent shrimp with spicy cajun seasonings and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cajun seasoning
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the shrimp and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
This recipe combines the sweetness of asparagus with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic, all wrapped up in a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate pan, toss asparagus with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. If using white wine, add to the shrimp skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
6. Serve shrimp over asparagus, garnished with thyme.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Shrimp with Spinach
This rich and flavorful recipe combines succulent shrimp with sautéed spinach, garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine with any remaining butter and garlic. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This light and flavorful salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and tangy lime juice, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 medium cucumber, sliced
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and cucumber.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bang Bang Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Bang Bang Shrimp Lettuce Wraps: A Spicy Twist on a Classic
This recipe takes the popular Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer and turns it into a delicious wrap that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crunchy lettuce come together in a flavorful package that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup Bang Bang Sauce (see below)
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Bang Bang Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the Bang Bang Sauce ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce into a bowl and add the cooked shrimp.
6. Spoon the shrimp mixture onto a lettuce leaf, then top with cilantro and soy sauce to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Squash
This recipe combines the flavors of shrimp scampi with the nutritious and delicious spaghetti squash. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve shrimp scampi over baked spaghetti squash and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes (including baking time)
Grilled Shrimp with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing combination of succulent grilled shrimp paired with a tangy garlic aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (for aioli)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, and parsley in a bowl to make the aioli.
6. Serve grilled shrimp with garlic aioli on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes grilling time)
Shrimp and Cauliflower Fried Rice
A twist on the classic Chinese dish, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with tender cauliflower and fluffy rice for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cauliflower and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Push the cauliflower mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in an egg and scramble it until cooked through.
6. Mix the egg with the cauliflower mixture.
7. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Low Carb Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with a crunchy cabbage slaw and wraps it all up in a low-carb tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 low-carb tortillas (6-8 inches in diameter)
– Cabbage Slaw (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and toss to coat.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, cook tortillas according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing a few grilled shrimp onto each tortilla and topping with Cabbage Slaw (see below).
Cabbage Slaw:
1. Shred 1 small head of cabbage into thin strips.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
3. Add shredded cabbage to the bowl and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and vibrant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with sweet bell peppers and aromatic spices, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked shrimp, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and top with cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your appetizer game with this mouthwatering recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Sriracha Mayo! Succulent shrimp wrapped in crispy bacon and served with a spicy kick, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into thirds and wrap each shrimp with a piece of bacon.
3. Place the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix together sriracha sauce, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a small bowl.
6. Remove the shrimp from the oven and serve with the spicy Sriracha Mayo.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Shrimp and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines succulent shrimp with earthy mushrooms, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, mushrooms, and shrimp. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and the mushrooms are tender (about 5-7 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Curry Shrimp with Cauliflower Rice
This recipe combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the spiciness of curry powder to create a delicious and nutritious dish. Serve it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb and paleo-friendly meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender broccoli and rich Alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine, shrimp, and broccoli in the skillet. Toss until coated with Alfredo sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Shrimp with Lemon Herb Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make air fryer shrimp recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and aromatic herbs is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Load shrimp into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through, shaking halfway.
6. Serve hot with additional lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp and Eggplant Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry combines succulent shrimp with tender eggplant, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauces. A quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side; set aside.
3. Add eggplant, onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour into the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Zucchini Fritters
Shrimp and Zucchini Fritters Recipe Summary:
These crispy fritters are a delicious twist on traditional shrimp cocktails, featuring succulent shrimp and zucchini mixed with herbs and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, zucchini, flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk.
4. Add the egg mixture to the shrimp mixture; mix until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the fritter batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch.
Summary
Indulge in the delicious taste of shrimp without compromising on your low-carb diet! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine the flavors of garlic butter, Cajun spice, lemon and herbs with nutrient-rich vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, spinach, and cauliflower. From classic shrimp scampi to innovative creations like Bang Bang Shrimp Lettuce Wraps and Low Carb Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your carb intake in check.
