Shrimp is a versatile and healthy protein that can be prepared in a variety of ways, making it a great option for quick and nutritious meals. Whether you’re looking for something light or a dish packed with flavor, these shrimp recipes can be whipped up in 15 minutes or less, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time. Let’s dive into nine delicious and healthy shrimp recipes that are both easy and quick to prepare.
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic butter shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. Start by melting butter in a skillet and sautéing minced garlic until it’s fragrant. Add peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking them until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. A sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice completes this dish, perfect for serving over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables.
Shrimp Stir-Fry
This shrimp stir-fry is a vibrant and healthy option that’s loaded with vegetables. Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat, then add shrimp along with sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir-fry everything together for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. This dish is both colorful and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for a quick and nutritious meal.
Shrimp Tacos
Shrimp tacos are a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Season the shrimp with taco seasoning and cook them in a skillet until they’re pink and opaque, which takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Fill soft tortillas with the cooked shrimp, then top them with shredded cabbage, diced avocado, and salsa. These tacos are fresh, flavorful, and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a light and zesty dish that’s ready in no time. Cook your preferred pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté minced garlic until it’s golden. Add the shrimp and cook until they’re pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of parsley for a refreshing and easy meal.
Shrimp Salad
For a light and refreshing meal, try this shrimp salad. Toss cooked and chilled shrimp with mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onions. Drizzle the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. This salad is perfect for a healthy lunch or a light dinner, offering a balance of protein and fresh vegetables.
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Shrimp and avocado salad is a creamy and satisfying dish that’s full of healthy fats and protein. Combine cooked shrimp with diced avocado, tomatoes, red onions, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle the mixture with lime juice and olive oil, then season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. This salad is both delicious and filling, making it a great option for a quick meal.
Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry
This shrimp and asparagus stir-fry is a quick and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. Heat oil in a skillet or wok over high heat, then add shrimp and sliced asparagus spears along with minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry everything together for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and the asparagus is tender-crisp. This dish is light, fresh, and perfect for a speedy dinner.
Shrimp Scampi Zoodles
For a low-carb option, try shrimp scampi zoodles. Start by spiralizing zucchini into noodles and setting them aside. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until they’re pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Toss the cooked shrimp with the zucchini noodles for a light and flavorful meal that’s ready in minutes.
Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Shrimp lettuce wraps are a fun and healthy way to enjoy shrimp. Fill large lettuce leaves with cooked shrimp, shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, and cucumbers. Drizzle the wraps with a tangy peanut sauce made from peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and Sriracha. These wraps are fresh, flavorful, and perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
