10 Best Shrimp Recipes for Macros 2026

Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein, offering about 24 grams of protein per 100 grams with only around 100 calories. This guide features ten delicious shrimp recipes that meet our selection criteria: high protein content, low calorie count, quick preparation time (under 15 minutes), and diverse culinary influences. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, these recipes will satisfy your cravings while keeping your macros in check.

How We Selected These Recipes

We focused on shrimp recipes that are not only high in protein and low in calories but also quick to prepare. Each recipe was evaluated based on its macro balance, ingredient quality, and ease of preparation. The goal was to create a diverse selection that caters to various tastes and dietary preferences while ensuring each dish can be made in 15 minutes or less.

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp

This classic dish is a favorite for its rich flavor and impressive protein content. The garlic and butter combination elevates the shrimp’s natural sweetness, making it a perfect main dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 20g butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes until they turn pink.
4. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
5. Serve immediately with a side of veggies or over rice.

Pro tip

Swap butter for olive oil for a lighter version while maintaining flavor.

2. Spicy Shrimp Tacos

These spicy shrimp tacos are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The heat from the spices complements the shrimp beautifully, and they can be easily customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

• 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 small corn tortillas
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 50g cabbage, shredded
• 30g salsa

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add shrimp, chili powder, and cumin, cooking for about 5 minutes until shrimp are cooked through.
3. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan.
4. Assemble tacos with shrimp, cabbage, and salsa.
5. Serve with lime wedges for extra zest.

Pro tip

Add avocado slices for healthy fats and creaminess.

3. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This light pasta dish combines shrimp with a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, making it a refreshing option for lunch or dinner. It's quick to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 100g whole wheat pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add garlic, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and lemon juice, cooking until shrimp are pink, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Drain pasta and toss with shrimp mixture.
5. Serve with additional lemon zest and parsley if desired.

Pro tip

Use zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb version.

4. Shrimp Stir-Fry

This shrimp stir-fry is a quick and nutritious meal option that is full of colorful vegetables and bold flavors. It's perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 100g mixed bell peppers, sliced
• 50g broccoli florets
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp ginger, minced

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add ginger and vegetables, stir-frying for 2–3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and soy sauce, cooking until shrimp are pink, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Serve over rice or quinoa if desired.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds for added crunch.

Pro tip

Add a splash of lime juice for a fresh finish.

5. Shrimp and Avocado Salad

This light and refreshing salad is perfect for a quick lunch. The combination of shrimp and avocado provides healthy fats and protein, making it a balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 50g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Cook shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until pink, about 3–4 minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked shrimp to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later.
5. Optional: Serve on a bed of greens for added volume.

Pro tip

Use canned shrimp for an even quicker option.

6. Coconut Curry Shrimp

This coconut curry shrimp is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors to your table. It's creamy, spicy, and very satisfying.

Ingredients

• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 200ml coconut milk
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 50g spinach

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add curry powder, cooking for 1 minute.
2. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
3. Add shrimp and spinach, cooking until shrimp are pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Serve with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
5. Garnish with cilantro if desired.

Pro tip

Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrients.

7. Shrimp Ceviche

This refreshing ceviche is perfect for hot days. The acidity from the lime cooks the shrimp, resulting in a light and zesty dish.

Ingredients

• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Juice of 2 limes
• 50g red onion, diced
• 50g cucumber, diced
• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. In a bowl, combine shrimp and lime juice, letting it marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Add red onion, cucumber, and cilantro, mixing well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled, preferably with tortilla chips.
5. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor.

Pro tip

Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.

8. Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri

These grilled shrimp skewers are bursting with flavor thanks to the vibrant chimichurri sauce. They are perfect for outdoor grilling or quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chimichurri sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Toss shrimp with olive oil, chimichurri, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers.
4. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are cooked through.
5. Serve with extra chimichurri on the side.

Pro tip

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

9. Shrimp Fried Rice

This quick shrimp fried rice is a satisfying one-pan meal that is perfect for using up leftover rice. It's packed with protein and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 150g cooked rice
• 1 egg
• 50g peas and carrots mix
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Heat sesame oil in a pan and scramble the egg, then set aside.
2. In the same pan, add shrimp and cook until pink.
3. Add cooked rice, peas, carrots, and soy sauce, mixing well.
4. Stir in the scrambled egg and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.

Pro tip

Use day-old rice for better texture and to prevent clumping.

10. Garlic Shrimp Quinoa Bowl

This quinoa bowl is a nutritious and filling option that combines shrimp with wholesome quinoa and veggies. It's perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 100g cooked quinoa
• 50g spinach
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add garlic, sautéing for 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked quinoa and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, optionally topped with avocado slices.

Pro tip

Prepare quinoa in bulk for easy meal prep throughout the week.

Bottom Line

These ten shrimp recipes offer a variety of flavors and cuisines while maintaining a high protein-to-calorie ratio. The standout choices include the Garlic Butter Shrimp for its rich flavor and versatility, the Spicy Shrimp Tacos for a fun twist on a classic, and the Coconut Curry Shrimp for a tropical flair. Each recipe can be quickly prepared, making them ideal for busy lifestyles while supporting your macro goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes shrimp a good protein choice?

Shrimp is low in calories while being high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake without adding excessive calories.

How can I track these recipes for my diet?

You can log these recipes in calorie tracking apps like Nutrola, MyFitnessPal, or Cronometer to keep track of your macros effectively.

Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

Yes, most of these recipes can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them ideal for meal prep.

Can I substitute shrimp with other proteins in these recipes?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other lean proteins like chicken or tofu, but this may alter the macro profile.