Lo-Cal Shrimp Creole
A flavorful, low-calorie shrimp creole featuring tender shrimp in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the minced onion and crushed garlic in salad oil.
- Add the deveined shrimp, tomato sauce, peeled and chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve hot with cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using brown rice instead of white for added fiber. If shrimp is unavailable, diced chicken or firm tofu can serve as excellent substitutes. Adjust the spices to your liking; adding a dash of hot sauce can give it an extra kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the flavor profile of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp creole over a bed of warm cooked rice for a satisfying meal. A side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad pairs well to balance the flavors. For a complete experience, consider serving with a zesty lemon wedge or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess, enhancing the dish's richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Shrimp Creole contains roughly 651 calories, with 27g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (283% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 610mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp creole ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the simmering step, then cool and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to cook the shrimp fresh just prior to serving.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
If shrimp isn't available, you can substitute with cooked chicken, firm tofu, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking any ingredients.
Is this dish spicy?
The original recipe is mild, but you can easily adjust the heat level. Adding cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce can increase the spiciness to your taste. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount of black pepper and omit any additional spicy ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).