Last Updated on October 25, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

When you think of pizza, the first image that comes to mind might be gooey cheese, thick crust, and indulgent toppings.

But what if I told you that you can enjoy a delicious pizza while still keeping an eye on your waistline?

Enter the Garlic Shrimp Pizza! This delightful dish combines a crispy thin crust with savory garlic butter, succulent shrimp, and fresh basil, making it not only mouthwatering but also a fantastic weight loss recipe.

Why Garlic Shrimp Pizza?

Pizza is often seen as a guilty pleasure, but it doesn’t have to be! According to a survey by the American Pizza Community, 83% of Americans enjoy pizza at least once a month.

With such a love for this classic dish, it’s time to transform it into something nutritious yet satisfying.

Garlic shrimp pizza is a perfect example of how you can indulge without the extra calories. Shrimp are low in calories and high in protein, making them an excellent choice for those looking to shed a few pounds.

Plus, garlic has numerous health benefits, including boosting your immune system and improving heart health.

Nutritional Benefits of Garlic and Shrimp

Shrimp: A Lean Protein Source

Shrimp are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients. A 3-ounce serving contains about 20 grams of protein and only 84 calories.

This makes shrimp an ideal ingredient for a weight loss recipe, as protein helps you feel full longer, reducing the chances of overeating.

The Power of Garlic

Garlic is more than just a flavor enhancer. It’s known for its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that garlic can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Adding garlic to your garlic shrimp pizza means you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting the health quotient of your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this scrumptious Garlic Shrimp Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pizza Crust:

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ¾ cup warm water

For the Toppings:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Crust

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix whole wheat flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
2. Add Garlic: Once melted, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the garlic butter and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the risen dough into a thin circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.
3. Add the Toppings: Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Brush the garlic butter and shrimp mixture over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Bake: Place the pizza in the oven (or on the preheated pizza stone) and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.
5. Finish with Basil: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil over the top for that burst of flavor and freshness.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice your garlic shrimp pizza into wedges and serve it hot. The aroma of garlic, shrimp, and melted cheese will have everyone rushing to the table!

Tips for Making the Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pizza

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp and high-quality mozzarella cheese.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add toppings like cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it Spicy: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes or even a drizzle of sriracha.

Final Thoughts

Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, and this Garlic Shrimp Pizza is the perfect testament to that.

With its crunchy thin crust, buttery garlic shrimp, and fresh basil, it’s a meal that satisfies your cravings while supporting your weight loss goals.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for pizza, give this recipe a try!

Incorporating more meals like this into your diet can make a significant difference. With just a few tweaks, you can enjoy your favorite dishes without the guilt.

Now, go ahead and whip up this delicious garlic shrimp pizza for a dinner that’s sure to impress!