WW Low-Point Shrimp Bake Recipe

Healthy, Quick, and Delicious Shrimp Bake for Weight Watchers (WW) Points Friendly Meal

Introduction
Shrimp is a fantastic, lean source of protein that works wonderfully in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re following the Weight Watchers (WW) program or just looking to eat a little healthier, this Shrimp Bake recipe is an excellent choice. It’s low in calories, packed with flavor, and simple to prepare. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this dish comes together quickly and can easily be customized to your taste preferences. This article will provide step-by-step instructions, nutritional information, and tips to ensure that you can recreate this recipe at home and enjoy a WW-friendly meal that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

  • Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – 1 lb (16-20 large shrimp)
  • Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (or use a non-stick spray for fewer WW points)
  • Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves
  • Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
  • Paprika – 1 teaspoon
  • Dried parsley – 1 tablespoon
  • Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
  • Chili powder – ½ teaspoon
  • Cayenne pepper – a pinch (optional, for heat)
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon (to taste)
  • Black pepper – ½ teaspoon (to taste)
  • Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon (for added flavor)
  • Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – 1 tablespoon (optional for extra flavor)

Optional Side Dishes:
If you’d like to serve this shrimp bake with a side dish to complete your meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a small serving of brown rice, or a fresh green salad.

Preparation Steps

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your oven is the perfect temperature for roasting the shrimp and giving them a slight caramelization on the edges for extra flavor.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp:
    Take your peeled and deveined shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp bake more evenly and enhances the texture, ensuring they turn out juicy and tender instead of soggy.
  3. Season the Shrimp:
    In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, dried parsley, dried thyme, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them thoroughly in the seasoning mixture until each shrimp is evenly coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
    Lightly grease a baking dish (you can use a non-stick spray for fewer WW points, or just rub a small amount of olive oil on the bottom). Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the dish, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Overcrowding will prevent the shrimp from baking properly and could result in steaming rather than roasting.
  5. Bake the Shrimp:
    Place the baking dish with the shrimp in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery when overdone. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the cooking time.
  6. Garnish and Serve:
    Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish the shrimp with fresh parsley and lemon zest for a burst of fresh flavor. Optionally, sprinkle a tablespoon of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the shrimp for an extra layer of savory goodness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Additional Tips and Variations

  • Adjust Seasonings to Taste: If you’re not a fan of heat, skip the cayenne pepper. For a different flavor profile, try adding some lemon zest or a splash of white wine to the seasoning mix.
  • Tailor the Vegetables: If you want to make this dish even more filling, consider roasting a handful of vegetables alongside the shrimp, like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil and seasonings, then roast them in the oven on a separate baking sheet while the shrimp bake.
  • Use Frozen Shrimp: If fresh shrimp isn’t available or convenient, frozen shrimp works just as well. Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined before using them in this recipe.
  • Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make a double batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Shrimp can also be frozen if you want to prepare meals ahead of time.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Each serving of this shrimp bake contains approximately:

  • Calories: 140
  • Protein: 23g
  • Carbs: 2g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Cholesterol: 175mg
  • WW SmartPoints: 2 (Green Plan), 2 (Blue Plan), 2 (Purple Plan)

Note: The nutritional values provided above are based on using olive oil for the seasoning mixture. If you decide to use a non-stick spray or reduce the oil, this can lower the calorie and WW points even further.

SmartPoints Breakdown for Weight Watchers:

  • Green Plan: 2 SmartPoints per serving
  • Blue Plan: 2 SmartPoints per serving
  • Purple Plan: 2 SmartPoints per serving

This recipe is incredibly low in WW points, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without going over their daily points allowance.

Benefits of Shrimp for Weight Watchers (WW)
Shrimp is a fantastic protein choice when following the WW program due to its low calorie and high protein content. A serving of shrimp provides about 20 grams of protein per 3 ounces, helping you stay full longer without consuming too many points. Additionally, shrimp is naturally low in fat and carbs, making it an ideal choice for a balanced, healthy meal.

Why This Recipe is WW-Friendly

  • Low in Calories: With only 140 calories per serving, this shrimp bake is a low-calorie option that fits well into any WW plan.
  • High in Protein: Shrimp is a lean protein source, which makes it an excellent choice for building muscle while staying within your daily points allowance.
  • Quick and Easy: The shrimp bake only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal meal for those with a busy lifestyle.
  • Customizable: This recipe is easily adaptable for different dietary preferences and can be paired with a variety of vegetables or side dishes for added nutrition.

Conclusion
This WW Low-Point Shrimp Bake is not only delicious but also perfectly suited for anyone following the Weight Watchers program. With its simple ingredients, low SmartPoints, and quick cooking time, it’s a versatile recipe that will soon become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself, your family, or guests, this shrimp dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. By incorporating lean shrimp with fresh herbs and spices, you can enjoy a guilt-free meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

This recipe allows you to indulge in a satisfying, healthy dinner while staying within your WW points, making it an excellent option for those striving to eat clean without sacrificing taste.