Why the Grilled Shrimp Is Great For Burning Fat
When it comes to burning fat, grilled shrimp is a fantastic choice that I can’t recommend enough.
It’s low in calories and packed with protein, making it perfect for anyone looking to shed some pounds. Plus, shrimp cooks quickly, so I can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The healthy fats from olive oil and butter add flavor without overloading on calories. I’ve found that grilling shrimp enhances its natural taste, making it satisfying and guilt-free.
Incorporating grilled shrimp into my meals has truly helped me stay on track with my fitness goals.
Ingredients of Grilled Shrimp
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal, grilled shrimp is one of my go-to recipes. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. The marinade, oh boy, it takes the shrimp to a whole new level.
Imagine the scent of garlic, fresh parsley, and a hint of lemon wafting through your kitchen as the shrimp sizzle on the grill. It’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water. So, if you’re ready to plunge into the world of grilled shrimp, here’s what you’ll need to gather from your pantry and fridge.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp:
- 2 lbs raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 garlic clove (mashed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, fresh shrimp is a game changer, but if you can only find frozen, just make sure to thaw them properly beforehand.
As for the garlic, feel free to go wild and add more if you’re a garlic lover like me—nothing wrong with a little extra flavor, right? Dry sherry may sound fancy, but it really elevates the marinade, so don’t skip it if you can help it.
And of course, fresh parsley adds that pop of color and freshness that makes everything a little more special. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some seriously tasty grilled shrimp.
How to Make Grilled Shrimp
When it comes to making Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp, the first step is all about the marinade. Start with 2 lbs of raw shrimp. You want to peel and devein them first—this can be a little messy, but trust me, it’s worth it. If you’re feeling fancy, you can leave the heads on for a dramatic presentation, but I usually take them off because, well, who wants to deal with that?
Now, grab that 1 garlic clove and mash it up nicely. In a bowl, combine the mashed garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons of melted butter, 2 tablespoons of dry sherry, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of minced parsley. Give it a good mix! The moment you combine these ingredients, you’ll be hit with a heavenly aroma that will make you wonder why you don’t cook shrimp more often.
Next, it’s time to marinate those shrimp. Toss them into the bowl with your flavorful concoction, making sure each shrimp gets a good coating. Now, here’s where the magic happens: let them marinate for at least 4 hours. I know, I know, it feels like forever when you’re hungry, but patience is key here. If you can, try to stick them in the fridge overnight—trust me, the longer they soak, the better they taste.
When you’re finally ready to fire up the grill, preheat it to medium heat. Depending on the size of your shrimp—I’m talking about those jumbo beauties here—you can either skewer them or just lay them on the grill individually. Honestly, I’m not a fan of skewering because, let’s face it, who’s the time?
Grill those shrimp for about 10 minutes, and don’t forget to flip them halfway through. You’re looking for that beautiful pink color and a slight char that screams, “I’m delicious!” Once they’re done, serve them up with some extra parsley for garnish, and get ready for compliments. Seriously, these shrimp are so good, they could make even the most mundane weeknight feel like a special occasion.
Grilled Shrimp Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp while sticking to a low-carb diet, there are plenty of tasty substitutions and variations you can try.
For a flavor twist, consider using lime juice instead of lemon. If you want to keep it dairy-free, swap butter for ghee or coconut oil. You can also add spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick.
For a different protein, try scallops or even chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces. Finally, experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to enhance the dish’s freshness.
Enjoy creating your perfect low-carb version!
What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp
To elevate your Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp experience, pairing it with the right sides can make all the difference.
I love serving it alongside a fresh, zesty salad, like a simple arugula or Mediterranean mix, which complements the rich flavors of the shrimp.
For a heartier option, consider garlic bread or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and lemon.
Roasted vegetables also bring a delightful crunch.
If you’re in the mood for something comforting, creamy risotto is a fantastic choice.
Ultimately, choose sides that balance the shrimp’s buttery goodness while adding freshness to your meal!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp, I often look for simple ways to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor.
One easy swap is using less butter—try cutting it in half and replacing it with a splash of vegetable broth or additional lemon juice. I also love using a mix of olive oil and herbs instead of all that butter.
Reducing the amount of salt enhances natural flavors, and using fresh garlic adds a punch without extra calories.
Finally, serve the shrimp over a bed of greens or zucchini noodles instead of rice to keep it light and satisfying.