Are you looking for a tasty, low-carb alternative to traditional shrimp and grits?
Try this Keto Shrimp and “Grits” recipe, which features cauliflower "grits" and spicy shrimp served with garlicky arugula.
The combination of seafood flavors, garlic, and creamy cauliflower make this recipe a satisfying meal that won't derail your keto lifestyle.
Why you’ll love this keto recipe
Deciding what to eat on keto can be challenging. However, this Keto Shrimp and “Grits” recipe will please even the pickiest eater.
This low-carb twist on a classic savory Southern dish is gluten-free and those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this meal without worrying about developing abdominal pain or bloating.
The addition of arugula offers nutritious greens associated with various health benefits, making it an excellent choice for incorporating more nutrients into your meal plan.
Research published in the International Journal of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences found that arugula contains essential nutrients, including vitamin C, minerals, and glucosides.
Arugula is considered excellent for digestive health and is often used as a diuretic and antiscorbutic, meaning it can help prevent vitamin C deficiency and associated skeletal issues.
The study further suggests arugula possesses various beneficial properties, such as being an anti-cancer, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory agent.
Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is convenient for busy individuals and serves up to four people, making it an excellent option for quick midweek family dinners.
What’s more, this dish is 100 percent keto-friendly as it replaces traditional carb-loaded grits with a creamy cauliflower rice version.
How to choose healthy shrimp
Not all shrimp are created equal. When shopping for shrimp, choose wild-caught and sustainably sourced options.
Wild shrimp caught in their natural habitat offer a better nutritional profile than farm-raised shellfish, which are typically raised on an unnatural diet consisting of growth promoters, antibiotics, and protein isolates.
Exposure to these ingredients has been linked to several health issues and may increase the risk of hormone imbalances, fertility issues, and cancer.
Wild-caught shrimp contain significantly higher levels of trace minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, and high-quality protein vital for overall health and well-being.
Additionally, sustainably sourced seafood has a lower environmental impact and supports local fishing communities.
Look for labels such as Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified or wild-caught to ensure you get the best quality shellfish while making an ethical choice.
Benefits of cauliflower on keto
Cauliflower is a member of the Brassica family. It’s low in carbs and high in fiber, making it a much-beloved staple in many keto recipes.
This cruciferous vegetable is also a rich source of B vitamins, vitamins C and K, folate, and potassium.
"Cauliflower contains sulforaphane, a phytochemical with potent antioxidant properties that may help prevent cardiovascular diseases and reduce inflammation," explains Dr. Berg.
A versatile ingredient, cauliflower’s unique texture makes it ideal for replacing high-carb foods such as potatoes, rice, pizza crust, and cheesy grits in many keto recipes.
What’s more, choosing cauliflower instead of grains allows you to obtain the nutritional benefits of this vegetable while maintaining ketosis.
Storing and reheating tips
When storing leftovers, it’s best to separate each component. For example, shrimp and arugula should be stored separately from the cauliflower "grits" to prevent them from becoming mushy.
If stored in airtight containers, this meal can be refrigerated for up to three days.
To maintain the flavor profile of this creamy grits keto shrimp dish, avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can result in a soggy texture.
Instead, sauté the dish in a skillet over low heat or warm it in the oven at 250 degrees F / 120 degrees C until heated through.
For a well-rounded meal, serve this Keto Shrimp and “Grits” dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Final thoughts
This Keto Shrimp and “Grits” with Arugula recipe uses cauliflower to replace traditional grits, creating a 100 percent keto-friendly meal option.
It’s recommended to choose sustainably sourced wild-caught shrimp to avoid potentially harmful antibiotics or growth promoters while supporting ethical fishing practices.
FAQ
1. How many carbs are in grits?
Traditional grits typically contain around 30 grams of carbs per serving, which is unsuitable for those following a low-carb keto diet.
2. Can I eat grits on keto?
No, regular grits are made from corn, which is high in carbohydrates and often contains genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
However, this Keto Shrimp and “Grits” with Arugula recipe uses cauliflower rice instead of classic grits, creating a keto-approved version that won’t kick you out of ketosis.
3. What is a good alternative to grits on keto?
Cauliflower rice is a popular low-carb alternative to grits on a keto diet.
Other keto-approved alternatives include zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or mashed cauliflower. Broccoli rice and shirataki rice are also suitable substitutes.
4. How many carbs are in a keto cauliflower grits recipe?
This cauliflower grits version contains 6.9 grams of carbs per serving. That’s significantly lower than traditional grits, which can contain up to 30 grams of net carbs per serving.
5. Can I have shrimp on keto?
Yes, shrimp are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal ingredient for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
6. Are shrimp healthy?
Yes, shrimp are considered healthy as they’re a nutrient-dense food high in protein and heart-health-promoting omega-3 fatty acids.
7. How many carbs are in keto shrimp and grits?
This Keto Shrimp and “Grits” with Arugula recipe contains 11.1 grams of carbs per serving. However, the exact carb count may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
8. Are low-carb shrimp and grits gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. However, check the labels of any pre-packaged ingredients for added gluten or cross-contamination during processing.
9. Is Keto Shrimp and “Grits” with Arugula suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is an excellent option for meal prepping as it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Store the ingredients separately to maintain their texture and flavor, and avoid microwaving the dish when reheating.
Source
1. https://www.iscientific.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/9-IJCBS-15-08-09.pdf
