If you are looking for a tasty, low-calorie meal, you can't go wrong with 1 cup of shrimp creole. Not only is it delicious, but it also packs a nutritious punch with a calorie count of just 276.

Shrimp creole is a classic Louisiana dish that is traditionally made with shrimp, vegetables, and a spicy tomato sauce. It is typically served over a bed of rice, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about shrimp creole, including how it's cooked, what ingredients you need, and the health benefits of this delicious dish.

What is Shrimp Creole?

Shrimp Creole is a spicy, tomato-based stew that originates from Louisiana. It typically includes sautéed onions, peppers, and celery, as well as garlic, thyme, and cayenne pepper. The dish is finished off with plump, juicy shrimp and served over a bed of fluffy rice. Shrimp Creole is often compared to jambalaya, which is a similar dish that also hails from Louisiana. The difference is that jambalaya features meat, such as chicken or sausage, and rice cooked directly into the stew, giving it a heartier, more filling texture. Shrimp Creole is a perfect meal for anyone who loves spicy food and enjoys bold, complex flavors. It is also relatively easy to make, making it a great option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and healthy on the table in a hurry.

How is Shrimp Creole Cooked?

Shrimp Creole is usually cooked in a large pot, starting with sautéing the vegetables and spices in oil until they are softened and fragrant. The shrimp is added to the pot and cooked until pink and cooked through. Finally, a tomato-based sauce is added to the pot and simmered until slightly thickened. To reduce the calorie count of the dish, you can use less oil when sautéing the vegetables, and substitute tomato paste for some of the canned tomatoes to reduce the sugar content. Shrimp Creole can be served over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, or on its own for a lower-carb option.

What are the Ingredients for Shrimp Creole?

The ingredients for Shrimp Creole vary depending on the recipe, but typically include:

• Shrimp
• Onion
• Green bell pepper
• Celery
• Garlic
• Canned tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Chicken broth
• Creole seasoning
• Hot sauce
• Rice

You can also add other vegetables, such as okra or corn, to add more fiber and nutrients to the dish.

Nutritional Information of Shrimp Creole

One cup of Shrimp Creole contains approximately:

• calories: 276
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Shrimp Creole is a low-calorie, high-protein meal that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is also low in fat and sugar, making it a healthy choice for anyone watching their weight or looking for a nutritious meal option.

Benefits of Eating Shrimp Creole

There are several benefits to eating Shrimp Creole, including:

• It is low in calories and high in protein, making it a filling and satisfying meal that can help you stay full for longer.
• It is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.
• It is low in fat and sugar, making it a healthy choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight or manage their blood sugar levels.

Additionally, the vegetables in Shrimp Creole provide fiber, which can aid in digestion and help keep you feeling full.

How to Make Shrimp Creole Healthier?

If you want to make Shrimp Creole even healthier, there are a few simple substitutions and tweaks you can make to the recipe. For example:

• Use less oil when sautéing the vegetables to reduce the calorie count.
• Substitute tomato paste for some of the canned tomatoes to reduce the sugar content.
• Use brown rice instead of white rice for a higher fiber option.
• Add more vegetables to the recipe to boost the nutrient content.

By making these small changes, you can turn an already healthy meal into a supercharged, nutrient-dense powerhouse.

Shrimp Creole as a Low-Calorie Option

If you are watching your weight, Shrimp Creole is an excellent low-calorie option. At just 276 calories per cup, it is a filling and satisfying meal that won't derail your diet. To keep the calorie count even lower, consider serving it over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice. You can also bulk up the dish with extra vegetables to make it even more filling without adding extra calories. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Shrimp Creole is a healthy and delicious meal option that you can feel good about.

Tips for Serving Shrimp Creole

To make the most out of your Shrimp Creole experience, consider the following tips:

• Pair it with a crisp, fresh salad for added nutrients.
• Add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt on top for a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy sauce.
• Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
• Double the recipe and freeze the leftovers for a quick and easy meal on busy weeknights.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Shrimp Creole is a versatile and delicious meal option that is sure to satisfy.

Variations of Shrimp Creole

While traditional Shrimp Creole is delicious as-is, there are a few creative variations you can try to mix things up. For example:

• Add sliced andouille sausage to the recipe for a heartier, more filling dish.
• Swap out the shrimp for chicken or turkey if you prefer a different protein source.
• Add extra spice to the recipe with additional cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Use chopped cauliflower or zucchini in place of some of the rice for a lower-carb option.

No matter which variation you choose, Shrimp Creole is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite.

What to Serve with a Cup of Shrimp Creole?

While Shrimp Creole is a satisfying meal on its own, it can be even more delicious when paired with the right side dishes. Consider serving it with one of the following options:

• A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar.
• A side of crispy roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli.
• A slice of crusty French bread or whole-grain toast.
• A side of brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.

No matter what you serve it with, Shrimp Creole is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to hit the spot.