How Many Calories Are in a Dozen Shrimp? Your Complete Guide to Shrimp Nutrition

Hey there fellow seafood lovers! I’ve been getting tons of questions about shrimp calories lately, so I thought I’d break it down for ya. As someone who’s crazy about cooking healthy meals I know how important it is to keep track of what we’re eating. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about shrimp calories!

The Quick Answer

A dozen medium shrimp contains about 126 calories. But wait – there’s more to the story! The calorie count actually changes depending on the size of your shrimp.

Here’s a handy breakdown by size:

• Jumbo (7 per dozen): 90 calories
• Extra large (9 per dozen): 113 calories
• Large (12 per dozen): 126 calories
• Medium (15 per dozen): 158 calories
• Small (21 per dozen): 221 calories

Understanding Shrimp Serving Sizes

Before we go deeper, let’s talk about servings One standard serving of shrimp is 3 ounces, which is about

• 7-8 medium shrimp
• The size of a deck of cards
• 84 calories

So when you’re eating a dozen shrimp, you’re actually having about 1.5 servings. Pretty neat, right?

The Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll get in a 3-ounce serving of cooked shrimp

• Calories: 84
• Fat: 0.2 grams
• Sodium: 94 milligrams
• Carbs: 0.2 grams
• Protein: 20.4 grams

Per 100 grams of shrimp:

• Calories: 106
• Total Fat: 1.73g
• Cholesterol: 152mg
• Sodium: 148mg
• Protein: 20.31g

Why Shrimp Is Actually Amazing for Your Diet

Ya know what’s cool about shrimp? They’re basically a dieter’s best friend! Here’s why I love recommending them:

1. Super High in Protein

   • Over 20g protein per serving
   • Helps build muscle
   • Keeps you feeling full longer

2. Low in Calories

   • Perfect for weight management
   • Great protein-to-calorie ratio
   • Can eat plenty without guilt

3. Heart-Healthy Benefits

   • Low in saturated fat
   • Helps lower bad cholesterol
   • Contains omega-3s

Watch Out! Cooking Methods Matter

Here’s where things can get tricky. The way you cook your shrimp can totally change the calorie count:

• Steamed/boiled shrimp: 84 calories per 3 oz
• Breaded fried shrimp: 178 calories per 3 oz
• Shrimp scampi: 229 calories per 3 oz

My Favorite Healthy Ways to Enjoy Shrimp

I’ve experimented with tons of ways to cook shrimp, and here are some of my fave low-cal options:

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers

   • Thread with veggies
   • Brush with lemon juice
   • Add herbs and garlic

2. Shrimp Protein Bowl

   • Mix with cauliflower rice
   • Add colorful veggies
   • Use light seasoning

3. Simple Shrimp Salad

   • Toss with mixed greens
   • Add light vinaigrette
   • Include crunchy vegetables

Pro Tips for Buying and Preparing Shrimp

After years of cooking shrimp, here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Size Matters

   • Choose size based on your recipe
   • Remember: smaller shrimp = more pieces per serving
   • Count per pound varies by size

2. Fresh vs. Frozen

   • Both are good options
   • Frozen often more economical
   • Thaw properly in fridge

3. Preparation Methods

   • Remove shells (unless grilling)
   • Devein for better presentation
   • Don’t overcook (they get rubbery)

Common Questions I Get About Shrimp

Q: Are frozen shrimp as healthy as fresh?
A: Yep! They’re usually frozen right after catching, which preserves nutrients.

Q: Can I eat shrimp on a diet?
A: Absolutely! They’re one of the best lean proteins you can choose.

Q: What’s the best way to cook shrimp for lowest calories?
A: Steaming, grilling, or boiling without added fats are your best bets.

The Bottom Line

So there ya have it! A dozen medium shrimp will set you back just 126 calories, making them an awesome choice for anyone watching their calorie intake. Just remember that size matters, and cooking methods can make a big difference in the final calorie count.

Whether you’re trying to lose weight, build muscle, or just eat healthier, shrimp can definitely be part of your meal plan. Just keep portions in mind and stick to healthier cooking methods, and you’re good to go!

Remember to pair your shrimp with lots of veggies and whole grains for a complete, nutritious meal. And hey, don’t forget to enjoy every bite – healthy eating should never feel like a chore!

Would you like me to break down any other aspects of shrimp nutrition? Drop me a comment below!