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Healthy Popcorn Shrimp

Healthy Popcorn Shrimp

Crispy baked popcorn shrimp are a healthy alternative to traditional popcorn shrimp.  Quick and easy to make, these whole wheat panko crusted shrimp are a great party appetizer or a fun weeknight dinner.

healthy popcorn shrimp with pineapple pepper confetti salsa

Healthier popcorn shrimp

Why are these crunchy and flavorful popcorn shrimp healthier?  First, they are baked and not fried. 

Only two tablespoons of olive oil are needed to make these crispy shrimp instead of the normal 6 + cups of oil needed for deep frying. 

Also, instead of using plain breadcrumbs, these shrimp get their crunchy texture from whole wheat panko crumbs. 

The panko crumbs add a delicious crunch and substituting whole grains for refined grains is always a good idea.

Quick and Easy Healthy Popcorn Shrimp Recipe

These whole wheat panko crusted shrimp are a delicious, healthier appetizer for a party. 

I like to serve them with Pineapple Pepper Confetti Salsa.  The sweet and savory combination of the salsa pairs nicely with the crunchy baked popcorn shrimp.

healthy popcorn shrimp recipe with whole wheat panko crumbs

Healthy Popcorn Shrimp

Yield: 4 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Crispy and delicious, these healthy popcorn shrimp make an excellent party appetizer or quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound medium shrimp (40-50 shrimp per pound), peeled and deveined
  • 1.5 cup whole wheat panko crumbs
  • 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, separated
  • 2 eggs

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F
  2. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly coat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  3. Combine spices, panko crumbs and olive oil in a medium size shallow bowl
  4. Beat the eggs in a medium size shallow bowl
  5. Working with 6 to 8 shrimp at a time, dip them in the egg and then coat with the panko crumb mixture
  6. Place the breaded shrimp on prepared baking sheet
  7. Bake in oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until panko crumbs are golden brown and shrimp are cooked through
  8. Serve immediately with Pineapple Pepper Confetti Salsa
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 271

Whole wheat panko crumbs

Whole wheat panko crumbs are a staple in our house.  However, they can be hard to locate, even at specialty grocery stores.  I purchase whole wheat panko crumbs online (buy the case… they are a staple). 

A quick and easy substitute to whole wheat panko crumbs can be made by in a food processor with just Triscuit crackers.

Pin recipe for later:

baked healthy popcorn shrimp whole wheat panko crumbs

Amy Nash

Friday 5th of January 2018

These popcorn shrimp sound delicious! I love that they are healthier so I can feel better about giving them to my kids!

elcitrakale

Thursday 4th of January 2018

İ love this! it seems simple to make yet delicious. Great as finger food as well. thank you for the idea.

Tina

Sunday 31st of December 2017

This looks easy and delicious. Panko is my favorite breadcrumb, it always comes out so crispy. Thank you for sharing this delicious recipe!

Karyl

Saturday 30th of December 2017

I love Panko, and just saw the whole wheat kind in the grocery store the other day. I'm going to have to give them a try, and will definitely be making this recipe

Helene

Saturday 30th of December 2017

That is why I have been getting wholewheat panko crumbs lately instead of regular breadcrumbs, it really turns crispy food into healthier bites together with the baking instead of frying food technique. I know I would go crazy for your popcorn shrimp bites, I LOVE shrimps!

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