🍤 Oven-Baked Shrimp with Lemon and Garlic
A Quick, Flavorful, and WW-Friendly Seafood Delight
Shrimp is a versatile and lean protein that fits seamlessly into a Weight Watchers lifestyle. This oven-baked shrimp recipe combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the aromatic depth of garlic, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and low in SmartPoints. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 16–20 shrimp)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Paprika, for garnish (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overlapping to allow even cooking.
3. Make the Lemon-Garlic Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
4. Marinate the Shrimp
Pour the lemon-garlic marinade evenly over the shrimp. Toss gently to ensure each shrimp is coated with the marinade. Let the shrimp marinate for 10–15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.
5. Bake the Shrimp
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the shrimp for 8–10 minutes, or until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the shrimp from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and a light dusting of paprika for color and added flavor. Serve immediately.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- With Vegetables: Serve the shrimp alongside steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a mixed green salad for a balanced meal.
- Over Grains: Pair with quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for added texture and fiber.
- As Tacos: Place the shrimp in soft corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime crema for a light taco option.
- With Pasta: Toss the shrimp with whole wheat or zucchini noodles and a light tomato sauce for a satisfying pasta dish.
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 23g |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 170mg |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Potassium | 200mg |
| Vitamin A | 4% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
🧠 Weight Watchers SmartPoints
| Plan | SmartPoints |
|---|---|
| Blue | 3 |
| Green | 3 |
| Purple | 3 |
Note: SmartPoints values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements.
💡 Tips for Success
- Shrimp Size: Use large shrimp for best results. Smaller shrimp may overcook quickly, while jumbo shrimp may require slightly more cooking time.
- Even Cooking: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to unevenly cooked shrimp.
- Marinating Time: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor. However, do not marinate for too long, as the acid in the lemon juice can begin to “cook” the shrimp.
- Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the shrimp during baking. They cook quickly and can become tough if overcooked.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus profile.
🥗 Health Benefits of Shrimp
- High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Low in Calories: At approximately 180 calories per serving, this dish fits well into a calorie-conscious diet.
- Rich in Nutrients: Shrimp provides essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Low in Fat: With only 9g of total fat per serving, this recipe is heart-healthy when consumed in moderation.