Marinated Shrimp for a Crowd: A High-Protein Party Recipe for Seniors

Healthy Recipe: Marinated Shrimp for a Crowd

Whether you're hosting a holiday party, attending a potluck, or just feeding a group at the beach, this make-ahead marinated shrimp dish is a winner. Packed with flavor from lime, garlic, and herbs, it's light, protein-rich, and versatile enough to serve as either a main course or an easy appetizer. The best part? You can prep it the night before, so you’re free to enjoy your guests.

Recipe adapted from Mary Kay Andrews’ The Beach House Cookbook
Serves 6–8 as an entrée; 12+ as an appetizer. — Susan Puckett

Ingredients

• 3 lbs large raw, unpeeled shrimp (or 2½ lbs peeled), frozen or fresh

• 1 large lemon, quartered or sliced

• 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning

• 2½ tsp salt

• ¾ cup lime juice + 2 tbsp grated lime zest (from 6–7 limes)

• ½ cup red wine vinegar

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1½ tbsp Dijon mustard

• 4 cloves garlic, chopped

• 1 tsp crushed red pepper (or to taste)

• ¾ cup avocado oil (or other neutral oil)

• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (or parsley/basil)

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• Optional: arugula or spring greens for serving

Instructions

1. Boil the shrimp: In a large pot, bring 3 quarts of water to a boil. Add shrimp (no need to thaw), lemon, Old Bay, and 2 tsp salt. Cook for about 3 minutes until shrimp turn pink. Drain, rinse with cold water, and peel if needed.

2. Make the marinade: In a blender, combine lime juice and zest, vinegar, sugar, mustard, garlic, red pepper, and ½ tsp salt. Blend for 30 seconds. Slowly add oil and blend until smooth. Pulse in cilantro or other herbs.

3. Marinate: In a large zip-top bag, combine shrimp, marinade, onions, and bell pepper. Refrigerate 6–8 hours or overnight (note: longer marinating can make shrimp firmer).

4. Serve: Remove shrimp from marinade with a slotted spoon. Serve on greens or offer with toothpicks as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Why This Recipe Is Great for Senior Fitness

• High in Lean Protein: Shrimp delivers essential amino acids to support muscle maintenance and strength in older adults.

• Low in Fat and Calories: A heart-healthy option that’s big on flavor but light on heaviness, ideal for aging metabolism.

• Easy to Prepare Ahead: Perfect for entertaining without the last-minute stress, especially for seniors with limited stamina or energy.