Weight Watchers Shrimp – These garlic shrimp is light, full of flavor, and versatile enough to adapt to any taste preference, shrimp can be a fantastic addition to your meal plan.
Why Shrimp Is Perfect for Weight Watchers
Shrimp is a high-protein, low-calorie seafood option, making it an ideal choice for anyone on the Weight Watchers plan. With only about 1 point for a generous serving (depending on how it’s prepared), shrimp allows you to indulge without feeling guilty. It’s also rich in important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium, which contribute to overall health.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Weight Watchers Shrimp
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks very quickly, usually within 4-6 minutes total. Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
- Marinate Wisely: If you have time, marinate the shrimp for about 15 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavors. Avoid leaving them too long in acidic marinades (like lemon juice) to prevent the texture from becoming mushy.
- Use Zero-Point Seasonings: Seasonings like herbs, garlic, lemon juice, and chili flakes add flavor without adding points.
- Experiment with Cooking Methods: Besides the stovetop and oven, you can also grill or air fry the shrimp for a different texture and taste.
Variations of Weight Watchers Shrimp
One of the best things about shrimp is its adaptability to different cuisines. Here are some tasty variations to try:
- Cajun Style Shrimp: Substitute smoked paprika with Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick. Serve over cauliflower rice for a zero-point meal.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Use a low-fat butter substitute and load up on garlic. This version pairs well with steamed vegetables.
- Shrimp Tacos: Use corn tortillas (usually low in points) and top with a fresh slaw and avocado slices.
- Asian-Inspired Shrimp: Marinate in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Serve with a side of stir-fried veggies.
How to Serve Weight Watchers Shrimp
- Salad Topping: Add the cooked shrimp to a fresh salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a vibrant meal.
- With Zoodles or Pasta: If you’re craving pasta, opt for zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta to keep the points low.
- Shrimp Bowl: Create a balanced shrimp bowl with brown rice, black beans, corn, and a drizzle of lime juice.
Pairing Ideas:
Dips and Sauces: Salsa, tzatziki, or a light yogurt-based dip are perfect accompaniments.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or a simple mixed greens salad.
Grains: Quinoa or farro are both healthy, filling, and taste great with shrimp.
How to Store and Reheat Shrimp
- Refrigerating: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It stays good for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, enjoy them cold in a salad.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for a quicker thaw. Just be sure to pat them dry before cooking.
2. What are the best shrimp to use?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best as they are meatier and easier to cook without drying out. Always opt for wild-caught when possible for the best flavor.
3. Are there any zero-point versions of this recipe?
You can make this recipe nearly zero points by using spray oil instead of olive oil and loading up on zero-point seasonings and veggies.
4. Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the seasoned shrimp for about 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Weight Watchers Garlic Shrimp
Weight Watchers Shrimp - This garlic shrimp is light, full of flavor, and versatile enough to adapt to any taste preference, shrimp can be a fantastic addition to your meal plan.
Ingredients
- 20 large, uncooked shrimp (frozen and pre-peeled work great!)
- 4 tsp olive oil, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ tsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat It Up: Get your skillet super hot over high heat. Add 2 tsp of olive oil.
- Sear the Shrimp: Lay the shrimp in a single layer (you may need to do this in two batches if your pan gets crowded, using 1 tsp oil per batch).
- Cook until they’re golden and turn that gorgeous orange-pink color—10 seconds to 1 minute per side. Transfer them to a plate as soon as they’re done.
- Lower the Heat: Reduce to medium-high and add the remaining 2 tsp of olive oil.
- Sizzle the Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant and lightly golden, about 2 minutes.
- Season Up: Add the shrimp back into the pan and sprinkle in the paprika. Give everything a good stir.
- Finish It Off: Lower the heat to medium and cook for another minute or until the shrimp is perfectly cooked.
- Fold in the chopped parsley, cilantro, and a splash of fresh lemon juice. Add salt to taste.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 74Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 44mgSodium 200mgCarbohydrates 2gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 5g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Weight Watchers Shrimp is not only a delicious way to enjoy seafood but also a flexible and healthy option to incorporate into your weekly meal prep. By following the tips, variations, and serving suggestions, you’ll have a flavorful dish that keeps you on track and excited about eating healthy.
Give this Weight Watchers Shrimp recipe a try, and let me know your favorite way to prepare it in the comments below. Happy cooking and enjoy every guilt-free bite!
Check my other shrimp recipes:
