Decoding Cocktail Shrimp Calories: The Surprisingly Low Calorie Appetizer

Cocktail shrimp are a party favorite, gracing platters at celebrations and gatherings year-round. These tasty cooked shrimp are served chilled with cocktail sauce for dipping. It’s easy to pop shrimp after shrimp when nibbling on appetizers.

But are you wondering just how many calories are in those delicious cocktail shrimp? They seem like a lighter appetizer option but the calorie count may surprise you.

In this article I’ll uncover the calories and nutrition in cocktail shrimp from party platters to frozen packs. I’ll also share tips for enjoying this appetizer while keeping calories in check. Let’s dive in!

Why Cocktail Shrimp Are a Lean Protein Source

Shrimp are packed with nutrition Some of the benefits of these shellfish include

• High protein – A 3 oz serving contains over 15g of protein. Shrimp are lean protein that helps you feel full.

• Low calorie – Steamed, grilled, or boiled shrimp only have about 60-80 calories per 3 oz serving.

• Low fat – Shrimp are naturally low in total fat and high in protein.

• Good minerals – Shrimp provide iron, selenium, zinc and more.

So on their own, shrimp are a great low calorie high protein food. This makes cocktail shrimp, when served without heavy sauces, a relatively light appetizer choice.

The Calorie Count in Restaurant Cocktail Shrimp

If you order a platter of chilled cocktail shrimp at a restaurant, the nutrition facts will vary by location. But in general, a serving of 5 large cocktail shrimp has around:

• 60-70 calories
• 1-2g fat
• 13-15g protein
• 110-170mg sodium

The calories come mostly from the shrimp itself rather than added sauces or seasonings. An 85g serving of restaurant cocktail shrimp has only about 95-115 calories.

So while cocktail shrimp taste indulgent, their calorie density is actually quite low compared to fried apps or cream-based dips. Enjoying a reasonable portion of shrimp can let you indulge without going overboard on calories!

Cocktail Shrimp Calories in Frozen Pre-Cooked Shrimp

Frozen pre-cooked cocktail shrimp offer an easy appetizer to keep stocked for parties, snacks, or quick meals.

Some popular frozen cocktail shrimp brands include:

• Trader Joe’s Cocktail Shrimp – 70 calories per 4 shrimp
• Aqua Star Cocktail Shrimp – 60 calories per 4 shrimp
• SeaPak Cocktail Shrimp – 35 calories per 2 shrimp
• Kirkland Cocktail Shrimp – 45 calories per 3 shrimp

These pre-portioned frozen options allow easy calorie control. Thaw them for a quick, lean protein appetizer. The calorie density is similar to restaurant shrimp at around 60-80 calories per 3 oz serving.

Adding Dipping Sauces Drives Up the Calories

While cocktail shrimp themselves are low calorie, the addition of dipping sauces can add significant calories:

• 2 tbsp cocktail sauce – 50 calories
• 2 tbsp tartar sauce – 90 calories
• 2 tbsp ranch dressing – 140 calories

Stick to dipping lightly, or consider lighter sauce options like salsa, mustard, or hot sauce to keep your appetizer light.

Nutrition Benefits Beyond Just Calories

In addition to the low calorie count, be sure to look at:

• Protein – 5-6 cocktail shrimp equal 12-15g filling protein.

• Sodium – Pre-cooked frozen shrimp average 300-500mg sodium per serving.

• Iron – A serving contains up to 2mg iron, or over 10% DV.

• Zinc and B12 – Shrimp provide these important nutrients.

So cocktail shrimp offer more than just low calorie appeal – they are nutritionally well-rounded.

Ways to Lighten Up Cocktail Shrimp Even More

If you want to enjoy this appetizer while keeping calories and sodium in check, here are some tips:

• Opt for chilled boiled shrimp instead of fried coconut shrimp or tempura versions.

• Use lighter dipping sauces like mustard, hot sauce, or fresh salsa.

• Portion your shrimp into a small bowl rather than eating directly from the platter.

• Grill your own shrimp and chill them instead of using pre-seasoned frozen options.

With a few simple tweaks, cocktail shrimp can be lightened up even more. But overall, this classic appetizer is surprisingly low in calories compared to many other party foods.

So don’t feel guilty enjoying a few chilled shrimp at your next celebration. Just be mindful of portion sizes, and dip lightly in sauce. Cocktail shrimp offer protein, nutrients, and great flavor in a low calorie package!