Go Back

Healthy Low Calorie Spicy Cajun Shrimp - Fast, Flavorful, and Light

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 to 1.5 pounds, medium or large; tail on or off)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil (1–2 tablespoons)
  • Lemon or lime (1, for juice and zest)
  • Fresh garlic (2–3 cloves) or garlic powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Onion powder
  • Dried oregano
  • Dried thyme
  • Black pepper
  • Kosher salt
  • Optional add-ins: fresh parsley or green onions, a pinch of brown sugar or coconut sugar for balance, hot sauce
  • Serving ideas: cauliflower rice, brown rice, mixed greens, corn tortillas, or roasted veggies

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Use paper towels to blot the shrimp well.
  2. Mix the Cajun seasoning. In a small bowl, combine 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne (less for mild), 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Add a tiny pinch of sugar if you like a balanced heat.
  3. Toss shrimp with oil and spices. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon oil, the spice mix, and 1 minced garlic clove (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder). Mix until evenly coated.
  4. Preheat your pan. Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Once hot, add a light drizzle of oil.
  5. Cook the shrimp fast. Place shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1.5–2 minutes per side, until they curl and turn opaque with a light char. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
  6. Add citrus and finish. Turn off the heat. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime and a little zest. Toss to coat. Taste and adjust salt or heat.
  7. Garnish and serve. Top with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve over cauliflower rice, in tacos, or on a salad.