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Raw Shrimp Cheek
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Raw Shrimp Cheek

Penaeus vannamei

Clinical Encyclopedia

Raw shrimp cheek is a delicacy known for its tender texture and rich flavor, often used in gourmet dishes. It is a source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients.

Also known as:
Shrimp CheekPrawn Cheek
Scientific NamePenaeus vannamei
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories85 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total19.5g
Protein
18g(92%)
Fats
1g(5%)
Carbohydrates
0.5g(3%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B121.5 µg (25%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium39 µg (70%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
High in selenium, an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great option for weight management.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to shellfish.
!Improper handling or cooking can lead to foodborne illnesses.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed cooked, either grilled, sautéed, or added to soups and stews. Ensure thorough cooking to eliminate any potential pathogens.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose shrimp cheeks that are firm, translucent, and have a fresh sea smell. Avoid any that appear discolored or have a strong odor.

How to Store

Keep shrimp cheeks in the coldest part of the refrigerator and use them within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container.

Myths vs Realities

MythShrimp is unhealthy due to high cholesterol.
RealityWhile shrimp is high in cholesterol, it can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll shrimp are farmed and unhealthy.
RealityWild-caught shrimp can be very healthy and sustainable, depending on sourcing.
MythShrimp cheeks are not worth eating compared to the rest of the shrimp.
RealityShrimp cheeks are considered a delicacy and offer unique flavor and texture.

Healthy Recipes

Citrus Marinated Shrimp Cheek Salad

A refreshing salad featuring marinated raw shrimp cheeks in a zesty citrus dressing, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. 2. Add the raw shrimp cheeks to the marinade and let them sit for 15 minutes.
  3. 3. Toss the mixed greens and avocado in a large bowl, top with the marinated shrimp, and serve immediately.

Spicy Shrimp Cheek Tacos

Delicious tacos filled with spicy raw shrimp cheeks, topped with a fresh mango salsa for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 cup diced mango
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
  1. 1. Toss the raw shrimp cheeks with chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
  2. 2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes until pink.
  3. 3. Warm the tortillas, fill them with shrimp, and top with mango salsa made by mixing mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Shrimp Cheek Ceviche

A vibrant ceviche made with fresh raw shrimp cheeks, lime juice, and a medley of vegetables, perfect for a light appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • Juice of 3 limes
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine raw shrimp cheeks with lime juice, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  2. 2. Add tomato, cucumber, red onion, jalapeño, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
  3. 3. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Cheek Zoodles

A healthy twist on pasta, featuring zoodles sautéed with garlic butter and succulent raw shrimp cheeks.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 3 tablespoons garlic butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and garlic butter over medium heat until melted.
  2. 2. Add raw shrimp cheeks and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink.
  3. 3. Stir in the zoodles, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Shrimp Cheek Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious quinoa bowl topped with raw shrimp cheeks, roasted vegetables, and a tahini dressing for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup mixed roasted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  2. 2. Layer cooked quinoa at the bottom of a bowl, followed by roasted vegetables and raw shrimp cheeks.
  3. 3. Drizzle with tahini dressing and serve warm.

Shrimp Cheek and Avocado Toast

A nutritious avocado toast topped with marinated raw shrimp cheeks, making for a perfect brunch option.

Ingredients
  • 100g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Mash the avocado in a bowl with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  3. 3. Top each slice of toast with the mashed avocado and raw shrimp cheeks, garnishing with red pepper flakes.

Shrimp Cheek Stir-Fry with Broccoli

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring raw shrimp cheeks and broccoli in a light soy sauce glaze.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat, then add ginger and garlic, sautéing for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Add raw shrimp cheeks and soy sauce, cooking until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3 minutes.

Shrimp Cheek Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls filled with raw shrimp cheeks, avocado, and cucumber for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 2 sheets nori
  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cucumber, julienned
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat, spread half of the sushi rice evenly over it.
  2. 2. Arrange raw shrimp cheeks, avocado, and cucumber in a line across the rice.
  3. 3. Roll tightly and slice into pieces, serving with soy sauce.

Shrimp Cheek and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A low-carb bowl featuring sautéed raw shrimp cheeks served over cauliflower rice with fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add cauliflower rice, cooking for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. In another pan, sauté raw shrimp cheeks until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve shrimp over cauliflower rice, garnished with fresh dill, salt, and pepper.

Mediterranean Shrimp Cheek Skewers

Grilled skewers of marinated raw shrimp cheeks with Mediterranean spices, served with a yogurt dip.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw shrimp cheeks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate raw shrimp cheeks with olive oil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
  2. 2. Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice to create a dip and serve alongside the skewers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are shrimp cheeks?

Shrimp cheeks are the tender, flavorful meat found in the head of the shrimp, considered a delicacy.

How should I cook shrimp cheeks?

Shrimp cheeks can be grilled, sautéed, or added to soups. They should be cooked until opaque.

Are shrimp cheeks healthy?

Yes, they are low in calories and high in protein, making them a healthy choice.

Can I eat shrimp cheeks raw?

It is not recommended to eat shrimp cheeks raw due to the risk of foodborne illness.

How do I store raw shrimp cheeks?

Store them in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for best quality.

What nutrients are in shrimp cheeks?

They are rich in protein, selenium, and vitamin B12, among other nutrients.

Do shrimp cheeks have a lot of cholesterol?

Yes, shrimp cheeks are relatively high in cholesterol, so moderation is key.

Where can I buy shrimp cheeks?

They can be found at seafood markets or specialty grocery stores.