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Keto Orange Garlic Shrimp - Bright, Zesty, and Ready in Minutes

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest (from 1 medium orange)
  • 1–2 teaspoons monk fruit or allulose (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1 tablespoon tamari (or coconut aminos for soy-free)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for light thickening)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon or lime wedges, for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry. Moisture causes steaming and rubbery texture. Lay the shrimp on paper towels and blot well. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Mix the sauce base. In a small bowl, combine orange zest, monk fruit or allulose, rice vinegar, tamari (or coconut aminos), and red pepper flakes. Stir and set aside.
  3. Preheat the pan. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. When it shimmers, it’s hot enough.
  4. Sear the shrimp in batches. Add half the shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and slightly golden on the edges. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining shrimp.
  5. Add butter and garlic. Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. When it melts, stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t brown it.
  6. Build the sauce. Pour in the sauce base and stir, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Let it bubble for 30–60 seconds to meld.
  7. Thicken lightly (optional). If you want a glossy coating, sprinkle xanthan gum evenly over the sauce while whisking. Start with a tiny pinch, then add up to 1/4 teaspoon. It thickens fast.
  8. Return the shrimp. Add shrimp and any juices back to the skillet. Toss to coat and warm through for 30–60 seconds. Taste and adjust salt, sweetener, or vinegar as needed.
  9. Finish and serve. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately with lemon or lime wedges to brighten the dish.