Easy Keto Grilled Shrimp Recipe
If you’re on a ketogenic diet and craving something delicious yet healthy, keto grilled shrimp recipes are the perfect choice.
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These tasty, low-carb shrimp dishes are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this guide will provide you with all you need to make keto-friendly grilled shrimp that will satisfy your taste buds without compromising your diet.
Is Shrimp Keto?
Yes! Shrimp is low in carbs and high in protein, making it great for a keto diet. 100g of shrimps contain 24g protein but only 0.2g total carbs!
As well as being an excellent source of protein, shrimp is full of essential nutrients. It is packed with vitamins and minerals like B12, iodine, and selenium, shrimp supports overall health.
Tips for Cooking Shrimp
Choosing the Right Shrimp
Opt for Larger Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal for grilling because they are easier to handle and less likely to overcook. Shrimp sizes are usually denoted as a number (e.g., 16/20), indicating how many shrimp make up a pound. For grilling, a size range of 16/20 or 21/25 is perfect.
Fresh vs. Frozen: Both fresh and frozen shrimp can be used for grilling. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before grilling. Thaw shrimp by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or in a bowl of cold water for about 20 minutes.
Prepping the Shrimp
Peel and Devein: For the best texture and flavor, peel and devein the shrimp before grilling. Leave the tails on for a more attractive presentation and easier handling on the grill.
Pat Dry: Moisture can cause steaming instead of searing. After rinsing, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they grill up nicely with a good char.
Marinate for Flavor
In this recipe you’ll marinate the shrimp for 30 minutes. This the recommended max time for marinating shrimp as otherwise it can be become mushy as the acids from the lemon juice can start to cook the shrimp.
Skewering Tips
If you want to skewer your shrimp, these tips will help.
Use Double Skewers: To prevent the shrimp from spinning around when you flip them, use two parallel skewers. This keeps the shrimp stable and ensures even cooking on both sides.
Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
Grilling Tips
Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F) before placing the shrimp on it. This high heat helps achieve a quick sear and prevents the shrimp from sticking to the grates.
Watch the Clock: Shrimp cook very quickly. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make shrimp tough and rubbery.
Avoid Direct Flames: Shrimp are delicate and can burn easily. If using a gas grill, keep the flames low and direct the shrimp to the hotter parts of the grill for a quick sear, then move them to indirect heat to finish cooking.
Oil the Grates: To prevent sticking and to get those beautiful grill marks, lightly oil the grill grates before placing the shrimp on them. Use a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs to oil the grates.
Avoid Moving the Shrimp: Place the shrimp on the grill and let them cook undisturbed for the first 2-3 minutes. This allows them to develop nice grill marks before you turn them.
Baste During Grilling: For added flavor and moisture, baste the shrimp with some of the marinade or a simple butter and garlic mixture during grilling. This enhances their flavor and keeps them juicy.
Use a Grill Basket: If you’re grilling smaller shrimp or are concerned about them falling through the grates, use a grill basket. This makes it easy to cook and flip a large batch at once.
Safety and Cleanup
Check for Doneness: Shrimp are done when they are pink and firm, and their internal temperature reaches 145°F. Overcooking leads to rubbery shrimp, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking slightly as they continue to cook after being removed from the grill.
Clean the Grill Grates: After grilling, while the grates are still warm, clean them with a grill brush. This prevents any residue from sticking and ensures your grill is ready for its next use.
Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftover grilled shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They can be enjoyed cold in salads or gently reheated for another meal.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a backyard barbecue, these techniques will ensure your shrimp are flavorful, juicy, and beautifully grilled.
Easy Keto Grilled Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Marinating the Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Grilling the Shrimp
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Skewer the shrimp on metal or soaked wooden skewers. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and slightly charred.
- For added flavor you can baste the shrimp with the marinade. This enhances their flavor and keeps them juicy.
Finishing Touches
- Once the shrimp are grilled to perfection, squeeze fresh lemon juice over them and sprinkle with chopped parsley for an added burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Skewer the shrimp, putting 4-6 shrimp per skewer.
- Another option is to pair the grilled shrimp with a side of your favorite keto-friendly veggies or over a bed of cauliflower rice. They are also great in a salad or as an appetizer.
Notes
Nutrition*
*The nutrition values provided are estimates per serving and may not be entirely accurate. Actual nutritional content can vary based on ingredients, portion sizes, and preparation methods. Always check product labels for precise information.| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110.75 kcal |
| Protein | 12.225 g |
| Fat | 6.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1.3 g |
| Fiber | 0.325 g |
| Sodium | 310.5 mg |
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
Great side options include cauliflower rice, sautéed spinach, grilled asparagus, or a mixed green salad.
Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can marinate them for up to 2 hours for an even more intense flavor.
Yes, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F for 8-10 minutes or until they are pink and cooked through.
Yes! Make sure to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Then cook the shrimp for 6-8 minutes.
Keto grilled shrimp recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a tasty, nutritious meal while staying true to your keto diet. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can have a delightful dish ready in no time.
