Garlic Butter Shrimp with Cauliflower Rice: A Flavorful, Low-Carb Delight

This keto-friendly garlic butter shrimp with cauliflower rice is a quick and easy meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavors without the carbs. Perfect for dinner or meal prep, it’s rich in protein and healthy fats.

• Total Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

1. 250 g (9 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2. 2 tbsp unsalted butter
3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
4. ½ tsp smoked paprika
5. ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
6. ½ tsp salt
7. ¼ tsp black pepper
8. 1 tbsp lemon juice
9. 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Cauliflower Rice:

1. 2 cups (200 g) cauliflower, riced (store-bought or freshly grated)
2. 1 tbsp olive oil
3. 1 clove garlic, minced
4. ½ tsp salt
5. ¼ tsp black pepper
6. ½ tsp onion powder (optional)

Substitutions:

• Dairy-free option: Swap butter for olive oil or ghee.
• More spice: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Rice alternative: Swap cauliflower rice for zucchini noodles or shirataki rice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower Rice:
   • If using fresh cauliflower, pulse florets in a food processor until rice-sized pieces form.
   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
   • Add cauliflower rice, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender but not mushy.
   • Set aside and keep warm.
2. Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
   • Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add shrimp, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
   • Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble & Serve:
   • Divide the cauliflower rice between two plates.
   • Top with garlic butter shrimp and drizzle any extra sauce from the pan.
   • Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 35 g
• Fats: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g

Vitamins & Benefits

• Shrimp: High in lean protein and rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Cauliflower: Low in carbs and packed with fiber and antioxidants.
• Garlic & Lemon: Support immune health and digestion.

Did you know? Shrimp are an excellent source of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports thyroid function!

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat to maintain texture.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated.

FAQ

❓ Can I use frozen shrimp?
✔️ Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess water.

❓ How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
✔️ Don’t overcook! Shrimp are done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

❓ What sauce pairs well with this dish?
✔️ A squeeze of lemon, extra butter, or a drizzle of garlic aioli!