Go Back

Low Calorie Meal Prep Cajun Shrimp With Broccoli - Fast, Flavorful, and Healthy

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large; tails off for easier meal prep)
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh; or use frozen, thawed and patted dry)
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional for color and sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus 1 teaspoon for broccoli)
  • 1.5–2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon cayenne (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (zest and juice, optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Optional add-ons for meal prep: 2–3 cups cooked cauliflower rice or 1.5 cups cooked brown rice

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp sear better and don’t steam.
  2. Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Set aside while you prep the veggies.
  3. Prep the vegetables: Cut broccoli into small florets so they cook quickly. Slice the red bell pepper. Toss both with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Cook the broccoli: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add broccoli and cook 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender with a bit of char. Add bell pepper in the last 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
  5. Sear the shrimp: In the same pan, keep heat at medium-high. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly browned. Don’t overcrowd; work in batches if needed.
  6. Brighten it up: Squeeze lemon over the shrimp. Taste and adjust salt or spice.
  7. Assemble meal prep: Divide broccoli and peppers into 4 containers. Top with shrimp. Add cauliflower rice or a small scoop of brown rice to each, if using.
  8. Garnish: Add lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley. Let everything cool slightly before sealing the containers.