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Spicy Shrimp with Cauliflower Mash and Garlic Kale

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Spicy Shrimp with Cauliflower Mash and Garlic Kale is a bold, flavorful, and wholesome meal that brings together high-protein shrimp, creamy cauliflower mash, and savory sautéed kale. It’s a low-carb, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for a balanced weeknight dinner without sacrificing taste. Every component is delicious on its own—but together, they create a satisfying, restaurant-worthy plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • A healthy, well-balanced meal full of bold flavors
  • Naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and high in protein
  • Quick and easy to prepare—ideal for weeknights
  • Great way to get in your veggies in a delicious way
  • Easily customizable with different spices or veggies

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the spicy shrimp:

  • Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic, minced
  • Smoked paprika
  • Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Lemon juice

For the cauliflower mash:

  • Cauliflower florets
  • Garlic (optional, for flavor)
  • Butter or olive oil
  • Milk or cream (dairy or non-dairy)
  • Salt
  • Pepper

For the garlic kale:

  • Fresh kale, chopped and stems removed
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic, thinly sliced or minced
  • Salt
  • Lemon juice or vinegar (optional, for brightness)

directions

this recipe
  1. Prepare the cauliflower mash:
    • Steam or boil cauliflower until tender (about 10 minutes).
    • Drain well and transfer to a food processor or blender.
    • Add butter, milk, salt, pepper, and optional garlic.
    • Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  2. Cook the garlic kale:
    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
    • Add kale and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until wilted and tender.
    • Finish with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar, if desired.
  3. Cook the spicy shrimp:
    • Toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
    • In a hot skillet, cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and cooked through.
    • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving.
  4. Assemble:
    • Spoon cauliflower mash onto plates, top with garlic kale, and finish with spicy shrimp.
    • Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2–3 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

  • Make it dairy-free: Use olive oil and plant-based milk in the mash.
  • Add herbs: Blend fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the cauliflower mash.
  • Switch greens: Use spinach, Swiss chard, or collards instead of kale.
  • Add more spice: Drizzle sriracha or a spicy aioli over the shrimp.
  • Try it with grits or polenta: Swap cauliflower mash for a Southern-style twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm each component in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Avoid overcooking shrimp during reheating to keep them tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking.

How do I make the cauliflower mash smoother?

Make sure the cauliflower is fully cooked and drained well before blending.

What can I use instead of kale?

Spinach, collard greens, or Swiss chard are great alternatives.

Can I roast the cauliflower instead of steaming it?

Yes! Roasting adds depth of flavor—just cook until golden and tender, then mash.

Is this meal keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but quickly warm them with the spices in a skillet for better flavor.

What spices go well with shrimp?

Paprika, cayenne, chili powder, garlic, cumin, and Old Bay all work well.

How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?

Cook on high heat for just 1–2 minutes per side until opaque. Don’t overcook.

Can I make the cauliflower mash ahead of time?

Yes, store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

What protein can I use instead of shrimp?

Grilled chicken, tofu, or seared scallops are all great substitutes.

Conclusion

Spicy Shrimp with Cauliflower Mash and Garlic Kale is a flavor-packed, nourishing meal that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to eat. It delivers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and bold spices while keeping things light and wholesome. Whether you’re eating low-carb, meal prepping, or just looking for something fresh and delicious, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

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Spicy Shrimp with Cauliflower Mash and Garlic Kale

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

This light yet flavorful meal features tender spicy shrimp served over creamy cauliflower mash, with a side of garlicky sautéed kale. It’s low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with flavor—perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Spicy Shrimp:

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Juice of 1/2 lime

For the Cauliflower Mash:

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese or Greek yogurt

  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Splash of milk or broth (optional, for creaminess)

For the Garlic Kale:

  • 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

 

Instructions

  1. Make the Cauliflower Mash:
    Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook cauliflower florets until very tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and let steam dry.
    Transfer to a food processor and blend with cream cheese (or yogurt), butter, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed. Set aside and keep warm.

  2. Cook the Kale:
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add kale, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

  3. Cook the Shrimp:
    In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
    In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and cooked through. Squeeze lime juice over the shrimp.

  4. Assemble:
    Divide cauliflower mash among plates. Top with garlic kale and spicy shrimp. Serve immediately.

 

Notes

  • To make it dairy-free, use olive oil and dairy-free yogurt or omit cream cheese.

  • Add a fried egg on top for an extra boost of protein.

  • Works well with frozen shrimp—just thaw and pat dry first.

 

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