Making a satisfying seafood dish at home doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this delicious recipe for 1 portion Shrimp Creole with Carolina Rice, you can enjoy a hearty meal of tender shrimp in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, served over fluffy rice. And with a total of 691 calories, it's a healthy and balanced option to add to your meal plans.

Not only is this recipe tasty, it's also loaded with essential nutrients. Each serving provides 43g of protein, 84% of your daily vitamin C needs, and a healthy dose of fiber and iron. Plus, shrimp is a low-calorie, low-fat source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help support heart health.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know to make and serve this classic dish at home, as well as some tips for customization and storage. Let's get started!

The Ingredients Used for Shrimp Creole

To make this recipe, you'll need: 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 cups cooked Carolina rice; salt and pepper to taste. You can easily find these ingredients at your local grocery store or seafood market. Look for high-quality, fresh shrimp, and try to choose organic and non-GMO produce when possible. Feel free to adjust the seasoning and heat level according to your taste preferences. You can also add other veggies like celery or okra if you like.

How to Prepare Shrimp Creole with Carolina Rice

To make the shrimp creole, start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the shrimp creole hot over a bed of cooked Carolina rice.

Considerations for Serving Size of Shrimp Creole with Carolina Rice

This recipe yields 1 generous portion of shrimp creole with Carolina rice. If you're cooking for more people, simply double or triple the recipe as needed. You can also pair this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread to make it more filling. Keep in mind that the addition of extra sides will increase the overall calorie count.

The Nutrient Content of Shrimp Creole

This recipe for shrimp creole with Carolina rice is not only delicious, it's also nutrient-dense. Each serving provides approximately: - 691 calories - 43g of protein

The History of Shrimp Creole Recipe

Shrimp creole is a classic dish with roots in the southern United States, particularly Louisiana. It's a flavorful blend of shrimp, vegetables, and spicy seasonings, all cooked together in a rich tomato sauce. The dish is said to have originated in the mid-1800s, and has since become a beloved staple of Cajun and Creole cuisine. Today, there are many variations of shrimp creole, each with their own unique twist on the traditional recipe. Some cooks use different types of seafood or veggies, while others add more or less spice to the mix. However you like to make it, shrimp creole remains a popular and delicious way to enjoy fresh seafood.

The Health Benefits of Shrimp Creole with Carolina Rice

Shrimp creole is a nutrient-packed dish that's not only delicious, but also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the key reasons to consider adding this recipe to your meal plan: - High in protein: Shrimp is a fantastic source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. - Low in fat and calories: Shrimp is also low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet.

Tips for Storing Shrimp Creole with Carolina Rice

To store leftover shrimp creole, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until hot. Note that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon reheating, so it's best to eat the dish fresh if possible.

How to Serve Shrimp Creole with Carolina Rice

Shrimp creole is a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Here are some ideas for how to serve it: - On its own, as a main course - With a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce

The Best Occasions to Serve Shrimp Creole with Carolina Rice

Shrimp creole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for a wide range of occasions. Here are some ideas for when to serve this tasty recipe: - Family dinners and weeknight meals - Special occasions like Mardi Gras or other holidays

Alternative Ways to Make Shrimp Creole

While this recipe for shrimp creole with Carolina rice is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas to get you started: - Try using different types of seafood, like crawfish or crab - Add other veggies to the mix, like celery, okra, or bell peppers