Are you looking for a delicious and healthy way to add some protein-packed punch to your meals? Look no further than these 20 mouthwatering shrimp recipes, all carefully crafted with Weight Watchers’ guidelines in mind. From spicy stir-fries to tangy ceviches, these dishes showcase the versatility of this seafood superstar.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity and satisfy your taste buds. Plus, each dish is carefully calculated to fit within Weight Watchers’ points system, making it easy to indulge in your favorite flavors while still staying on track with your dietary goals.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top 20 shrimp recipes that are both flavorful and healthy!
Garlic Lemon Shrimp Skillet
A flavorful and quick shrimp skillet recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the pungency of garlic, all cooked to perfection in one pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in the lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this bold and spicy recipe that combines succulent shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and the signature heat of Cajun seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add Cajun seasoning mixture to the vegetables and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return shrimp to the pan and toss with the spicy vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe that combines succulent grilled shrimp, crispy tacos, and a tangy avocado lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, cilantro
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and cumin. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping in foil and heating on grill for 1 minute.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, Avocado Lime Crema, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with nutty quinoa and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, shrimp, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and add shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Shrimp and Pesto
Transform zucchinis into noodles and pair them with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a vibrant pesto sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the zucchinis into long noodles, using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife.
3. Brush the shrimp with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Cook the zucchini noodles in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine the grilled shrimp and pesto sauce in a bowl. Toss to coat.
6. Add the cooked zucchini noodles to the shrimp mixture and toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp with Mango Salsa
Experience the tropical flavors of coconut shrimp paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa, all made possible in the convenience of your air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together coconut, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the coconut mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Place shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through, shaking halfway.
6. Serve with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp and Black Bean Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional tacos, these lettuce wraps combine succulent shrimp with savory black beans and creamy avocado for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Avocado, sliced (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add black beans, lime juice, garlic, and cumin. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a portion of black bean mixture onto a lettuce leaf, followed by a cooked shrimp. Top with avocado and cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Low-Country Shrimp and Grits
This classic Southern dish combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits and a hint of spice, perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder Low-Country Shrimp and Grits is a beloved staple in the South.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Combine cooked grits with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste.
5. Stir in cooked shrimp and chopped parsley.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the sweetness of shrimp and spinach, creating a delicious and savory dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the shrimp in olive oil until pink and cooked through.
3. Add garlic, spinach, and salt and pepper to taste; cook until spinach is wilted.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the shrimp mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of each mushroom.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Shrimp Salad with Feta
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp, crumbly feta cheese, and a medley of Mediterranean flavors for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, stir in olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and red onion.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including marinating time)
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Ginger Soy Sauce
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and the savory flavor of ginger soy sauce. It’s an easy and delicious meal that can be prepared in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (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.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir-fry until combined with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with green onions if desired.
9. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta
Baked Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta Recipe
A flavorful and elegant seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, tomatoes, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful cauliflower “rice” dish, creating a deliciously healthy and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Transfer the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve the shrimp and cauliflower mixture in a bowl and garnish with parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Shrimp Lettuce Cups
Thai-Inspired Shrimp Lettuce Cups: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional shrimp cocktail, these bite-sized lettuce cups pack a punch of Thai flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the ginger and curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Stir in garlic, fish sauce, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the lettuce cups by placing a spoonful of the shrimp mixture onto a lettuce leaf.
5. Garnish with cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packets
A flavorful and healthy dinner option that’s ready in just 12 minutes! This recipe combines succulent shrimp, tender asparagus, and aromatic garlic for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 foil sheets (heavy-duty)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four to six pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil into 12-inch squares.
3. Place one shrimp, a few asparagus spears, and a sprinkle of garlic in the center of each foil square.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Fold the foil over the ingredients, creating a packet, and seal tightly.
6. Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes or until shrimp are pink and asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Squash
This recipe is a twist on the classic shrimp scampi, using spaghetti squash as a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and bake for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the squash from the oven and use a fork to scrape out the flesh into long strands.
5. Combine the cooked shrimp, spaghetti squash, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including squash baking time)
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a cozy evening. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with sweet corn, potatoes, and aromatic spices to create a delightful chowder.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels, chicken broth, and shrimp. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are pink and potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Citrus-Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Brighten up your outdoor gatherings with these vibrant and flavorful shrimp skewers, marinated in a zesty citrus mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and Dijon mustard.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh citrus wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche
Celebrate the flavors of the tropics with this refreshing and light ceviche recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. This dish is a harmonious blend of succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, avocado, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately, with tortilla chips or tostadas.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
One-Pan Shrimp and Veggie Bake
A flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines succulent shrimp, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices all in one pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and return to oven for an additional 1 minute.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful and healthy culinary journey with these 20 Weight Watchers-approved shrimp recipes! From spicy Cajun stir-fries to Mediterranean salads, and from air fryer coconut shrimp to baked dishes with feta, there’s something for everyone. These innovative and mouthwatering recipes are not only delicious but also fit within the Weight Watchers program. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for new meal ideas, this collection of shrimp recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet in check.
