In our quest for a fit physique, monitoring the foods we eat is a necessity – and only the best, most nutritious sources will do. I love all things seafood, but one of my favorite go-to ingredients is shrimp.

I hold shrimp in the same regard as potatoes, mainly because they are so versatile, easy to work with and are wonderful for constructing a healthy body.

Here are a few facts about shrimp and why you should include it on your plate –

1. Shrimp is a very lean protein source, offering approximately 20g of protein for a 3 ½ ounce serving
2. Shrimp contain high amounts of the carotenoid Astaxanthin, the primary compound that gives shrimp its color and is a natural anti-inflammatory agent.
3. Shrimp contain, per 3 1/2 –ounce serving, 3g of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which decreases your risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes.

Today’s recipe uses coconut milk, blackening spices, and a splash of pineapple juice that give this dish delicious island flavors – serve with brown rice or a sweet potato.  Try it out and let me know what you think.

A quick idea on using shrimp in your recipes –
Toss 4 oz. of shrimp in some Cajun seasoning and cook according to package instructions. Then fill up a whole wheat roll along with Cole slaw mix, tomato, and pickle slices. Mix together some ground Creole mustard and lemon juice for a low-calorie alternative to mayonnaise – and you’ve got mouthwatering Cajun Shrimp Po Boys!

On to the recipe –

Makes: 1 Serving

Ingredients:
8 pieces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 ounces light coconut milk
2 tsp. Garlic powder
2 tsp. Ground ginger
1 ounce Pineapple juice
3 ea. Pineapple rings, cut into wedges
2 tsp. Blackening seasoning
1 Tbs. Sesame seeds (optional)
2 ea. Skewers, soaked in water for 10 minutes (prevents burning)

Method of Preparation:
1. Pre-heat barbecue grill. In a small container, combine the first 5 ingredients and marinate for about 10 minutes.
2. With the skewers, alternate piercing shrimp, then pineapple until all product has been skewered.
3. Place skewers on grill for about 3 minutes per side; then sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.

Nutritional Information – per serving

275 Calories; 31g Protein, 31g Carbohydrates, 4g Fat

Johnathan Zamora
The Fit Chef