WW Grilled shrimp skewers
This quick grilled shrimp with marinade is fresh and tangy, and it will satisfy your taste buds! These nutritious skewers remind me of summer weekends spent by the beach and grilling dinner with friends. You won’t believe how keto and Weight Watchers-friendly this meal is! It’s only 3 WW points and 5 carbohydrates!
Sometimes I get tired of thick sauces and carbohydrate-rich foods. That’s when I search for something lighter for dinner, like this delicious and healthy grilled shrimp with my favorite homemade marinade. The shrimp and vegetables absorb the flavors well, making them very delicious.
The best part about this marinade recipe is that you probably have all of the items in your pantry! Sweet, tangy, salty, and citrus flavors will excite your senses! I enjoy eating shrimp off a grilled skewer with bell peppers and onion. So prepare your grill, spices, and skewers, and invite some pals over for a backyard BBQ! You will not believe how nutritious and low-calorie this recipe is.
Ingredients
▢ One pound shrimp
▢ 1/2 medium white onion, sliced into ½ inch squares
▢ 1 cup chopped bell peppers, sliced into ½ inch squares.
▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil.
For marinade
▢ 1 tablespoon lime juice.
▢ One cup apple juice.
▢ 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
▢1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
▢ Add 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro.
▢ 2-3 Sage leaves.
▢ 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
▢ 1/4 teaspoon paprika.
▢ Add 1/2 teaspoon salt
▢ Add 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
Instructions
1. Prepare your vegetables; the onion and bell pepper should be the same size so they cook correctly.
2. Place the shrimp, onion, and bell peppers on the skewer sticks.
3. Baste the shrimp and vegetables in olive oil.
4. In a large bowl, combine the remaining marinade ingredients and whisk.
5. Place the shrimp skewers into the marinade and place in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (if you marinate longer than that, the lemon will begin to cook the shrimp).
6. Preheat grill to high heat and cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until opaque throughout.
Nutrition
Health Information:
WW (previously Weight Watchers) Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a nutritious, low-calorie solution ideal for individuals who want to maintain or reduce weight while still eating tasty food. Here’s a breakdown of the health advantages and nutritional features of shrimp and the dish in general:
Low in Calories:
Shrimp are naturally low in calories, making them a great choice for people on a calorie-controlled diet. A 3-ounce serving of grilled shrimp includes around 84 calories. Grilling shrimp instead of frying lowers the calorie count because it eliminates the need for extra fats or oils.
High in Protein:
Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein, with around 18 grams per 3-ounce meal. Protein is required for muscle growth and repair, as well as to maintain metabolism and overall body functions. This makes shrimp an excellent alternative for those who want to enhance their protein consumption without adding extra calories or fats.
Low Fat:
Shrimp are naturally low in fat. Grilled shrimp includes less than 1 gram of fat, making them a heart-healthy choice. Furthermore, shrimp are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial to cardiovascular health.
Rich in Nutrients:
Shrimp are also a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including
Healthy Cooking Method:
Grilling shrimp preserves their natural flavor without adding excess oil. Furthermore, grilling allows any excess moisture from the shrimp to escape, keeping the shrimp delicate and juicy without becoming oily.
Vitamin B 12:
Important for nervous system health and red blood cell formation.
Iodine:
Promotes thyroid function and hormonal balance.
Selenium:
A potent antioxidant that protects the body from oxidative damage and promotes immunological function.
Iron and zinc:
Both are essential for maintaining a strong immune system and improving general health.
Low in Carbohydrates:
Grilled shrimp skewers have less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per 3-ounce serving, making them a good choice for low-carb and keto diets.
Healthy Cooking Method:
Grilling shrimp preserves their natural flavor without adding excess oil. Furthermore, grilling allows any excess moisture from the shrimp to escape, keeping the shrimp delicate and juicy without becoming oily.
Cooking Tips
Choose Fresh or Frozen Shrimp:
When choosing shrimp, pick fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. Frozen shrimp are frequently flash-frozen shortly after being collected, retaining their flavor and texture. Thaw frozen shrimp properly before grilling to guarantee consistent cooking.
Peel and devein shrimp (optional):
If you wish, peel and devein the shrimp before skewering them. While the shell preserves moisture and provides flavor, removing it can make eating simpler.
Marinate for Extra Flavor:
Marinating shrimp adds flavor and helps keep them soft while cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper works well. Marinate the shrimp for at least 15-30 minutes, but no more than an hour, since they will get mushy if marinated for too long.
Preheat the Grill:
Preheating the grill is essential to keep the shrimp from sticking and cooking evenly. Grill the shrimp over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Shrimp cook quickly, so avoid overcooking because they can become tough and rubbery.
Use Wooden Skewers:
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading with shrimp. This keeps the skewers from scorching on the grill. Alternatively, metal skewers work nicely and may be reused.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers:
To ensure equal cooking, don’t crowd the shrimp onto the skewers. Space them out slightly to allow heat to circulate around each shrimp. This will allow them to cook the shrimp more uniformly and reduce the danger of any being undercooked.
Add Veggies for Variety:
To add taste and nutrition, skewer vegetables alongside the shrimp. Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes are all good options for grilling alongside the shrimp. This also allows you to prepare a more balanced and colorful supper.
Test for Doneness:
When shrimp are cooked, its flesh should change from transparent to opaque and be firm to the touch. If the shrimp curls into a “C” shape, it’s probably done. Be careful not to overcook them, since they will become tough and chewy.
Serve with Healthy Sides:
Pair the grilled shrimp skewers with healthful grains like as quinoa or brown rice, or with a fresh green salad. This provides fiber and other nutrients while keeping your meal light and balanced.
Conclusion
WW Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a tasty, nutritious, and simple recipe that can be enjoyed by individuals of all dietary backgrounds. Shrimp are a low-calorie, high-protein, and nutrient-dense protein option. By following simple cooking tips like marinating, grilling at the right temperature, and adding veggies, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that fits well into a weight management plan. Grilled shrimp skewers are a healthy and delicious option for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
