Shrimp

Shrimp Sizes:

Shrimp is sold by the size and not, like most Seafood, by the pound. When you're buying shrimp Keldons Cookery suggests this guide on what to look for.

Extra Small - About 61 to 70 shrimp per pound. These tiny shrimp, are often used in dishes like shrimp salad where a delicate texture is preferred.

Small - Approximately 51-60 shrimp per pound. These are still quite small and are great for pasta dishes or stir-fries.

Medium - Roughly 41-50 shrimp per pound. These shrimp are about 2 inches long and are versatile for a ton of cooking methods, including sautéing and grilling.

** These sizes are often best used in dishes where shrimp are mixed with other ingredients, like paella, curries, or shrimp fried rice. Their smaller size allows them to blend well with other components and the flavors from the other ingredients.

Large - Typically 31-40 shrimp per pound. Each shrimp is about 2.5 inches long, making them a good size for grilling and serving individually.

Extra Large - Around 26-30 shrimp per pound. At about 3 inches long, these shrimp are excellent for dishes where the shrimp is the centerpiece, such as shrimp cocktail.

Jumbo - Usually 21-25 shrimp per pound. These shrimp can reach up to 3.5 inches and are perfect for grilling or broiling.

** Large through to Jumbo are ideal for recipes where shrimp is the star of the show. They work well in shrimp scampi, skewered shrimp on the grill, or simply boiled and served with a dipping sauce.

Colossal or Tiger Shrimp - 10-15 shrimp per pound. These are very large shrimp, often over 4 inches long, and are best for stuffing or baking.

** Due to their impressive size, these shrimp are best for when you really want to impress and make a statement. Stuff them with a filling, bake, and serve them as a main dish.

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Nutritional Values:

Shrimp are an excellent source of protein and other important nutrients. They are low in calories but high in protein and provide key nutrients including selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12. Shrimp are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. However, they can be high in cholesterol, so everything in moderation for individuals monitoring their cholesterol levels.

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