Whole30 Shrimp Onigiri

Delight in a fresh, Whole30-approved twist on a Japanese classic with this Whole30 Shrimp Onigiri recipe! Featuring tender cauliflower rice seasoned with coconut aminos and a hint of lemon, these grain-free rice balls are filled with perfectly spiced, pan-seared shrimp for a protein-packed bite. Wrapped in crispy nori sheets and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish combines wholesome, clean ingredients with bold umami flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, these shrimp onigiri make the perfect snack, light meal, or portable lunch option. Serve them warm or cold for a satisfying, gluten-free, soy-free, and paleo-friendly delight!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3 cups cauliflower rice
• 8 large shrimp
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 4 nori sheets
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
• 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons green onion
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1

Begin by making the cauliflower rice. If using whole cauliflower, cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice grains. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the cauliflower rice and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3

While the rice is cooking, season the shrimp with garlic powder, ground ginger, sea salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

In a separate pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5

Transfer the cooked cauliflower rice to a bowl. Stir in the coconut aminos and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 6

To form the onigiri, dampen your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take a handful of the cauliflower rice mixture and shape it into a triangle or ball.

Step 7

Slice each cooked shrimp into smaller pieces and press a few pieces into the center of each onigiri. Alternatively, you can leave the shrimp whole and add them as a topping.

Step 8

Wrap the nori sheet around the onigiri, leaving the top open if desired, to give it a traditional look.

Step 9

Garnish each onigiri with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Step 10

Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. These onigiri can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(663.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	798.7

Total Fat 48.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.8g
Cholesterol 336mg	0%
Sodium 2757.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 45.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.5g	0%
Total Sugars 14.4g
Protein 48.9g	0%

Vitamin D 9.6IU	0%
Calcium 265.8mg	0%
Iron 4.5mg	0%
Potassium 1267.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 54.0%

Protein: 24.0%

Carbs: 22.1%