Quick Answer
The number of calories in 12 peeled and eaten medium-sized shrimp depends on the exact size of the shrimp. On average, 12 medium shrimp (about 4 ounces or 113 grams) contain approximately:
- 110 calories
- 1 gram of carbohydrates
- 24 grams of protein
- 1 gram of fat
So a serving of 12 medium peeled and eaten shrimp contains about 110 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the size of the shrimp. Smaller shrimp contain slightly fewer calories per serving, while larger shrimp contain more.
Calorie Count of Shrimp
Shrimp are low in calories and fat, but high in protein. The calorie content comes mostly from the protein in shrimp.
Here is the nutrition information for different sizes of shrimp, per 3 oz cooked (12 medium shrimp) serving:1
| Type of Shrimp | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 90 | 20g | 1g | 1g |
| Medium | 110 | 24g | 1g | 1g |
| Large | 140 | 30g | 1g | 1g |
| Colossal | 220 | 46g | 2g | 2g |
As you can see, calories, protein, fat and carbs increase as the shrimp size increases. So colossal shrimp contain about double the calories and protein as small shrimp.
The takeaway is that on average, 12 medium peeled and eaten shrimp contain about 110 calories and 24g protein.
Shrimp Nutrition Facts
Here are some more details on the nutrition facts for shrimp:2
– Protein: 24g protein per serving. Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein.
– Fat: 1g fat per serving. Shrimp contain heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
– Carbs: 1g carbs per serving. Shrimp are very low in carbs.
– Vitamins and minerals: Shrimp provide vitamin B12, selenium, niacin, vitamin B6, iron and phosphorus.
– Cholesterol: 172mg cholesterol per serving. Shrimp are high in dietary cholesterol, but do not negatively impact blood cholesterol levels in most people.
So shrimp offer a lean, low-calorie source of protein and important nutrients. They are high in cholesterol, but can be part of a healthy diet in moderation.
Benefits of Eating Shrimp
Here are some of the top health benefits of eating shrimp:
– High in protein to build muscle, repair tissue and support weight loss.
– Low in calories and fat, making them ideal for weight management.
– Contain omega-3 fatty acids that are good for heart health.
– Loaded with various vitamins and minerals like selenium, iodine, copper and B vitamins.
– May have antioxidant effects to reduce inflammation.
– Provide the antioxidant mineral astaxanthin, which has neuroprotective effects.
Overall, shrimp are touted as one of the healthiest seafood options due to their stellar nutrition profile. Eating shrimp provides protein, healthy fats and important nutrients for health.
Drawbacks of Eating Shrimp
While shrimp offer many benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
– High in dietary cholesterol. However, dietary cholesterol has less of an impact on blood cholesterol levels than once believed.
– Potential for contamination and foodborne illness if not handled properly. Buying high quality shrimp reduces this risk.
– May contain traces of metals like mercury or chemicals. Choosing wild caught shrimp instead of farmed can minimize contaminants.
– Allergies or sensitivities. Some people may be allergic to shellfish including shrimp.
– Sustainability concerns with certain shrimp fisheries or farms. Opting for sustainable shrimp helps protect ocean ecosystems.
As long as you choose high quality shrimp and don’t eat them in excess, the benefits seem to outweigh potential drawbacks for most people. Those with shellfish allergies need to avoid shrimp.
How to Cook Shrimp
Shrimp are extremely versatile – they can be prepared in many quick and healthy ways. Here are some of the most popular cooking methods:
– Sautéed: Cook shrimp in a pan with olive oil or butter and desired seasonings. Takes just a few minutes.
– Grilled: Toss shrimp in olive oil and spices, then grill for 2-3 minutes per side. Gets nice char marks.
– Baked: Arrange shrimp on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 5-8 minutes. Easy clean up.
– Broiled: Place shrimp on a broiling pan and broil for 2-3 minutes per side. Quick and hands-off.
– Air fried: Toss shrimp with oil and air fry at 400°F for 4-5 minutes until crispy.
– Boiled: Boil a pot of water with seasoning, add shrimp and cook 1-2 minutes until pink. Fast and simple.
– Stir fried: Sear shrimp in a wok or pan with veggies and sauce. Great in stir fries.
No matter how you cook them, shrimp cook up fast. Avoid overcooking for tender, juicy shrimp. Use a thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F internally.
Healthy Ways to Eat More Shrimp
Here are some healthy and delicious recipe ideas for eating more shrimp:
– Shrimp tacos or fajitas – sautéed shrimp in corn tortillas or wraps
– Shrimp salad – combine cooked shrimp with greens, vegetables and a lemony dressing
– Shrimp fried rice – stir fried rice with shrimp, egg, peas and carrots
– Garlic butter shrimp – sautéed in garlic butter sauce over pasta or zoodles
– Coconut shrimp – breaded and baked with a coconut flake coating
– Shrimp skewers – grill or broil shrimp on skewers with pineapple and bell pepper
– Shrimp scampi – shrimp cooked in lemon, butter and garlic wine sauce
– Cajun shrimp – blackened seasoned shrimp with avocado salsa
– Shrimp spring rolls – wrapped in rice paper with veggies and herbs
– Shrimp curry – simmered in an Indian-style coconut curry sauce
The possibilities are endless! Combining shrimp with healthy grains, veggies, beans, herbs and other nutritious ingredients can lead to delicious, good-for-you meals.
Typical Nutrition of Shrimp Dishes at Restaurants
When dining out, shrimp dishes can vary widely in nutrition and calories depending on how they are prepared. Here is the nutrition info for popular shrimp dishes at some restaurants:3
Red Lobster
– Shrimp Linguine Alfredo (6 oz shrimp): 800 calories, 52g fat (31g saturated fat), 1680mg sodium
Applebee’s
– Garlic Shrimp Scampi (6 oz): 420 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 1830mg sodium
The Cheesecake Factory
– Roasted Garlic Lemon Shrimp: 580 calories, 26g fat (4g saturated fat), 770mg sodium
Longhorn Steakhouse
– Grilled Shrimp Skewers: 200 calories, 4g fat (0.5g saturated fat), 790mg sodium
Outback Steakhouse
– Shrimp on the Barbie: 310 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 1930mg sodium
As you can see, restaurant shrimp dishes can be high in calories, fat, and sodium depending on cooking methods and seasonings. Healthier choices include simpler preparations like grilled, broiled or steamed. Watch out for creamy sauces, butters and oils that add extra calories and fat.
Cost of Shrimp per Pound
The cost of shrimp can vary greatly depending on factors like: 4
– Size – Jumbo shrimp cost more per pound than smaller shrimp.
– Source – Wild caught shrimp is more expensive than farmed or imported.
– Processing – Peeled, cooked, frozen or skewered shrimp costs more than raw shell-on.
– Country of origin – Where the shrimp was harvested impacts price.
– Quality grade – Higher grade shrimp costs more.
– Seasonality – Prices fluctuate throughout the year with supply.
Based on retail prices in the United States, on average you can expect to pay:
– Small shrimp: $4 to $9 per pound
– Medium shrimp: $7 to $12 per pound
– Large shrimp: $10 to $15 per pound
– Jumbo shrimp: $15 to $25 per pound
Shrimp prices tend to be lowest in the warmer months like May through August when wild shrimp availability peaks. Prices are highest around the winter holidays due to high demand.
When buying shrimp, look for sales, buy in bulk when possible, and consider buying and freezing raw shrimp to save money. Opting for farmed or previously frozen shrimp can also lower the cost.
Conclusion
In summary, a serving of 12 medium peeled and eaten shrimp contains approximately 110 calories and 24 grams of protein, along with important nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12.
Shrimp offer many benefits as part of a healthy diet, like lean protein, heart-healthy fats, and antioxidants. They are extremely versatile in cooking and pair well with many flavors and ingredients.
Aim for sustainably sourced shrimp when possible, and enjoy shrimp dishes in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet. Look for healthy preparations when dining out and monitor portion sizes to keep calories in check.