Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious way to boost your protein intake? Look no further than these 20 mouthwatering high protein shrimp recipes. From savory stir-fries to fresh salads, we’ve got you covered with a variety of dishes that are not only packed with protein but also bursting with flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of shrimp as a protein-rich ingredient and share some creative ways to incorporate it into your meals. Whether you’re a health-conscious foodie or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa
Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter shrimp served over nutty quinoa for a satisfying and healthy meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
7. Serve shrimp over quinoa, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your backyard BBQ with these flavorful shrimp skewers, infused with a spicy kick from sriracha and lime. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and honey.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Fresh and flavorful, this shrimp and avocado salad is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled shrimp, diced avocado, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
5. Top with thinly sliced red onion and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Black Bean Bowl
A flavorful and filling bowl filled with succulent shrimp, savory black beans, and a hint of Cajun spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add black beans to skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture.
6. Place cooked shrimp on top of bean mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, served atop a bed of refreshing zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil, garlic, and shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add lemon juice and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the zucchini noodles and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Egg White Scramble
A protein-packed breakfast or brunch option that’s both flavorful and healthy. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a light and airy egg white scramble, perfect for a quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 egg whites
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites and a pinch of salt.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked shrimp and onions in the skillet.
7. Cook until the eggs are set, breaking them up with a spatula as they cook.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
High-Protein Shrimp Stir-Fry with Broccoli
Boost your protein intake with this quick and delicious shrimp stir-fry, paired with nutritious broccoli for a well-rounded meal. This recipe is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the broccoli, soy sauce, chicken broth, and honey. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines succulent shrimp with creamy chickpeas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Shrimp with Parmesan and Almond Crust
Elevate your shrimp game with this flavorful and crunchy baked shrimp recipe, featuring a savory parmesan and almond crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and sliced almonds.
3. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture; stir to combine.
4. Rinse shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
5. Toss shrimp with olive oil until coated.
6. Place shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over each shrimp, pressing gently to adhere.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Lentil Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of protein-packed shrimp and fiber-rich lentils, making it a great option for a healthy meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of shrimp, spinach, and feta cheese. The result is a nutritious and delicious meal perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, wilt spinach with garlic over low heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once sweet potatoes are ready, slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for filling.
6. Stuff each sweet potato with shrimp mixture, followed by spinach and feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Protein-Packed Shrimp Tacos with Greek Yogurt Sauce
Kick your taco Tuesday up a notch with this protein-packed recipe that combines succulent shrimp, crunchy veggies, and a tangy Greek yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 tacos shells
– Greek yogurt sauce (see below)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, salsa
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, until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, sauté diced onion and bell pepper in a separate pan until tender.
5. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled shrimp onto shells, followed by sautéed veggies and Greek yogurt sauce.
Greek Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Edamame Fried Rice
This protein-packed recipe combines succulent shrimp and sweet edamame with savory fried rice, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup frozen edamame, thawed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the edamame to the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until tender.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through.
6. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, along with soy sauce and salt to taste. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Cottage Cheese Wrap
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with succulent shrimp, creamy cottage cheese, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked shrimp
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 small bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Optional: chopped cilantro, avocado, or salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, cottage cheese, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the wrap by spreading the shrimp-cottage cheese mixture down the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border at the top and bottom. Add the cooked onion and bell pepper on top.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap tightly.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Farro Salad with Lemon Dressing
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with nutty farro and a tangy lemon dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, cooked shrimp, and lemon dressing. Toss to combine.
5. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Tofu Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Enjoy a flavorful and refreshing Asian-inspired appetizer or main course with this simple recipe for Shrimp and Tofu Skewers with Peanut Sauce. Marinated in a zesty mixture of soy sauce, lime juice, and garlic, the shrimp and tofu pair perfectly with a creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Peanut Sauce (recipe below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add shrimp and tofu; marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread shrimp and tofu onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and tofu is lightly browned.
5. Serve with Peanut Sauce (see below).
Peanut Sauce:
1. Whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and ginger in a small bowl.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and White Bean Stew
Shrimp and White Bean Stew Recipe
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines succulent shrimp with creamy white beans, perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add beans, broth, and tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional pilafs, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with cauliflower “rice” for a delightful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic and paprika; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and stir to combine with the shrimp mixture.
7. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the pilaf to a serving dish and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Eggplant Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry combines succulent shrimp with tender eggplant and a medley of aromatics, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of 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 pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil and cook the eggplant slices until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 1 minute.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); add cooked shrimp back into the pan.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Chia Seed Crackers with Hummus
These flavorful crackers are made with succulent shrimp, nutritious chia seeds, and topped with a creamy hummus dip. Perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Hummus dip (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together chia seeds, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped shrimp and mix until just combined.
4. Gradually add olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crackers are golden brown.
7. Serve with hummus dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Elevate your protein intake with these 20 mouth-watering shrimp recipes. From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa to innovative combinations like Shrimp and Edamame Fried Rice, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a nutritious bowl of soup, these high-protein shrimp recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you full and energized.