Paleo Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Cauliflower “Mashed Potatoes”

This paleo lemon garlic shrimp with creamy cauliflower mash is rich, comforting, and full of bold flavor without feeling heavy. The garlicky shrimp, crispy bacon, and velvety cauliflower create a restaurant-quality meal that’s still weeknight friendly.

Ingredients

Shrimp Marinade

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

Cauliflower Mash

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into large florets

• 6–8 cloves garlic, peeled

• Extra-virgin olive oil

• Himalayan salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Butter (grass-fed preferred)

Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Marinated shrimp (from above)

• 2 slices bacon

• 2 tablespoons butter (grass-fed)

• 1/2 cup white wine

• 1/2 sweet onion, thinly sliced

• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)

• Juice of 1 lemon

Directions

1. Marinate the shrimp:
   In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, and oregano. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Refrigerate for 1–4 hours.

2. Prepare the cauliflower mash:
   Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread cauliflower and garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15 minutes, stir, then roast another 15–20 minutes until tender and lightly browned.

   Transfer to a food processor, add butter, and blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed. Keep warm.

3. Cook the bacon:
   In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside on paper towels. Crumble once cooled.

4. Cook the shrimp:
   In the same skillet, add butter to the bacon drippings and melt over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft. Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano, cooking for about 1 minute.

   Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the white wine and cook until slightly reduced. Finish with lemon juice and season to taste.

5. Serve:
   Spoon the creamy cauliflower mash onto plates, top with the shrimp mixture, and sprinkle with crispy bacon.

Servings

Makes 4 servings.

*Original Recipe at http://shecookshecleans.net/2011/11/07/lemon-garlic-shrimp-over-cauliflower-mash/