Weight Watchers Grilled Green Shrimp: A Burst of Freshness on the Grill

There are certain dishes that, with just one bite, transport me back to sun-drenched afternoons and the tantalizing aroma of charcoal. For me, Weight Watchers Grilled Green Shrimp is one of those magical creations. I remember the first time I encountered this recipe; it was during a particularly health-conscious phase, where I was searching for vibrant, flavorful meals that wouldn’t derail my progress. This dish, with its herbaceous marinade and perfectly grilled shrimp, was a revelation. It’s proof that healthy eating can be incredibly exciting and deeply satisfying, a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create something truly spectacular.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 21 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 1.5 lbs shrimp
• Dietary Type: Weight Watchers Freestyle

Ingredients

This recipe relies on the vibrant freshness of its components, creating a marinade that infuses the shrimp with bright, herbaceous notes before they hit the grill.

• 1/3 cup chopped parsley
• 1/3 cup chopped basil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Equipment Needed

For this straightforward grilling adventure, you won’t need anything overly specialized. A few common kitchen tools will suffice:

• Medium-sized zip-top plastic bag (for marinating)
• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Tongs (for handling the shrimp)

Instructions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. The marinating time is crucial for flavor development, and the grilling itself is a quick affair, perfect for a weeknight meal or a light appetizer.

1. Prepare the Marinade: To begin, gather your fresh herbs and aromatics. In a medium-sized zip-top plastic bag, combine the chopped parsley, chopped basil, minced garlic cloves, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and fresh ground pepper. Give these ingredients a gentle stir within the bag to ensure they are well mixed.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the large shrimp, peeled and deveined, directly into the bag with the marinade. Seal the bag tightly, pressing out any excess air. Gently refrigerate the bag, turning it occasionally to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated and marinated. For optimal flavor, let the shrimp marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, you can marinate them for up to overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate even deeper.
3. Preheat Your Grill: When you’re ready to cook, prepare your grill. If using a nonstick ridge grill pan, spray it with nonstick spray and set it over medium-high heat. If you’re using an outdoor grill, preheat it to a medium-high heat as well. Ensure the grill grates are clean to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan or grill, carefully place the marinated shrimp onto the hot surface. Grill the shrimp until they are just opaque in the center and lightly browned on the outside. This will typically take 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep a close eye on them, as shrimp cook very quickly and can easily become overdone. The goal is a tender, succulent bite.
5. Serve Immediately: Once cooked to perfection, remove the shrimp from the grill immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Drawing on years in the kitchen, I’ve learned a few tricks that can elevate even the simplest of dishes.

• Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating for an extended period is beneficial, leaving shrimp in an acidic marinade for too long (especially if using lemon juice, which isn’t in this recipe but is common) can actually start to “cook” the shrimp, resulting in a mushy texture. This olive oil and herb-based marinade is quite forgiving, but an hour to overnight is the sweet spot.
• The “Opaque” Test: The visual cue for perfectly cooked shrimp is when they turn from a translucent grey to an opaque pinkish-white. A slight curl into a “C” shape is also a good indicator. If they curl into a tight “O,” they’re likely overcooked.
• Batch Grilling is Key: Overcrowding the grill pan or grates is a common mistake. It lowers the temperature, steams the shrimp instead of grilling them, and prevents that beautiful caramelization and char. Grilling in batches ensures each shrimp gets the direct heat it needs for optimal results.
• Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried herbs can work in a pinch, the vibrant flavor and aroma of fresh parsley and basil are what truly make this dish sing. Don’t skimp on the fresh stuff if you can help it.
• Peeling and Deveining: Ensure your shrimp are properly peeled and deveined before marinating. Leaving the tails on can make them easier to handle on the grill, but peeling them all the way through allows for maximum marinade penetration.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These grilled green shrimp are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways.

Serving:
Serve these shrimp hot off the grill. They are fantastic on their own as a light appetizer or a healthy main course. Consider pairing them with a crisp green salad, a side of quinoa, or some grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. A wedge of lemon is always a welcome addition for an extra burst of citrus. For a more substantial meal, they can be tossed with pasta or served over rice.

Storage:
Leftover grilled shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While they are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, they can be reheated gently. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them tough. Instead, a quick sauté in a pan over low heat or a brief warming in a low oven (around 250°F / 120°C) will suffice.

Nutritional Information

This information is an estimate per serving, based on 4 servings of the recipe.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	166.1 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	6.3 g	9%
Saturated Fat	0.8 g	4%
Cholesterol	214.9 mg	71%
Sodium	1404.5 mg	58%
Total Carbohydrate	2.5 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.3 g	1%
Sugars	0.1 g	0%
Protein	23.6 g	47%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

While the recipe as written is delightful, feel free to explore these variations:

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of half a lemon or lime into the marinade for an additional layer of brightness.
• Different Herbs: If basil or parsley aren’t your favorites, try substituting with cilantro, dill, or chives.
• Garlic Intensity: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add another clove of minced garlic. Just be mindful not to overpower the other delicate flavors.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight before marinating and grilling. Ensure they are fully drained and patted dry.

Q: What’s the best way to ensure my shrimp don’t stick to the grill?
A: Make sure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated and lightly greased. Don’t try to move the shrimp until they release easily from the surface.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done grilling?
A: The shrimp will turn opaque pink and curl into a “C” shape. They cook very quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before adding the shrimp.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for grilling on an outdoor grill?
A: Absolutely. The instructions apply to both a grill pan and an outdoor grill. Just ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled.

Final Thoughts

This Weight Watchers Grilled Green Shrimp recipe is more than just a healthy meal; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder that vibrant flavors and satisfying textures can be achieved with simple, fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking methods. I encourage you to gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and let the aroma of these herbaceous shrimp fill your kitchen. Serve them as is, or alongside your favorite light sides, and savor the bright, clean flavors. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and any personal twists you discover; the culinary journey is always best when shared.