Aloha Shrimp Fried Rice

Elevate your weeknight meals and impress your guests with the vibrant flavors of Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice! This extraordinary dish is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and a hint of spicy, creating an unforgettable culinary experience with every spoonful. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp perfectly seared, mingling with sweet and tangy pineapple chunks, and a colorful array of crisp vegetables, all tossed with fluffy, savory fried rice. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a tropical escape on a plate, promising excitement and flavor that will banish any dinner rut.

pineapple shrimp fried rice in a skillet with a wooden spoon lifting some out of the skillet.

A Symphony of Sweet and Savory Goodness

Our Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an explosion of flavor. It masterfully blends succulent, pan-seared shrimp with the bright, tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple, and the comforting texture of perfectly cooked egg-fried rice. This exquisite harmony of flavors ensures a truly balanced and satisfying meal that appeals to a wide range of palates. The subtle sweetness of the pineapple perfectly cuts through the rich, savory notes of the shrimp and rice, while a touch of spice adds an exciting kick.

Beyond its incredible taste, this dish offers a wholesome and well-rounded meal. It’s rich in protein from the lean shrimp, keeping you feeling full and energized. Furthermore, it’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals from the vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, contributing to a nutritious and healthy lifestyle. It’s a complete meal in one pan, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both deliciousness and nutritional value.

One of the greatest advantages of this Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice is its ease and speed of preparation. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it an ideal candidate for those hectic weeknights when time is short but you crave something homemade and flavorful. You can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under an hour, rivaling your favorite takeout. For an even more complete and satisfying dinner, consider pairing it with our crisp Asian Green Beans, which offer a delightful crunch and complementary flavors.

Looking for a low-carb alternative? If you’re managing your carbohydrate intake but still crave the vibrant flavors of a stir-fry, explore our Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry. This protein-packed delight is ready in about 20 minutes, featuring ground chicken, a convenient coleslaw mix, scrambled egg, and frozen vegetables. It offers all the satisfaction of “fried rice” without the high carb count, making it a fantastic and equally delicious option.

close up fried rice with shrimp in a skillet.

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Dish

Crafting the perfect Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so special. A quick trip to your local grocery store is all it takes to gather these fresh, vibrant items:

overhead image of ingredients for shrimp and pineapple fried rice.

Jumbo Shrimp: The star of our dish! Beautifully cooked, fresh shrimp provide a tender, sweet, and satisfying protein. Opt for larger shrimp (jumbo or extra-large, around 26-30 count per pound) as they are easier to peel and devein, less prone to overcooking, and offer a more substantial, succulent bite that truly elevates the dish.
Fresh Pineapple: This ingredient is key to the “pineapple” in Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice! Freshly chopped pineapple brings a burst of juicy sweetness and a vibrant tang that perfectly contrasts with the savory elements. While canned pineapple can be used in a pinch, fresh pineapple offers a superior texture and a more intense, authentic flavor profile that truly shines.
Day-Old Rice: The secret to perfectly textured fried rice. Using leftover rice that’s at least a day old is crucial because fresh, warm rice contains too much moisture, which can lead to a mushy, clumpy fried rice. Day-old rice is drier, allowing the grains to separate easily and develop that desirable slightly chewy texture when fried. Any variety of white rice (jasmine, basmati) works wonderfully.
Eggs: Scrambled eggs are a classic addition to fried rice, contributing a wonderful richness, an extra boost of protein, and a lovely soft texture that complements the other ingredients. They also add beautiful specks of yellow throughout the dish.
Red Bell Pepper: Diced red bell pepper not only adds a refreshing crunch and a natural sweetness but also infuses your fried rice with a vibrant splash of color, making the dish visually appealing and increasing its nutritional value.
Green Onions (Scallions): These versatile aromatics offer a mild, fresh onion flavor and a delightful, subtle punginess. Using both the white and green parts provides different layers of flavor and freshness, enhancing every forkful.
Garlic: An indispensable aromatic, minced garlic forms the savory foundation of this fried rice. Its pungent, earthy notes add incredible depth and fragrance, making the entire dish more robust and inviting.
Soy Sauce: This umami-packed condiment is essential for any fried rice recipe. It brings a deep, savory flavor, a beautiful caramel color, and acts as the perfect binder, tying all the diverse flavors of the dish together into a cohesive and delicious whole.
Sriracha: For those who love a bit of heat, Sriracha is your go-to. This famous Thai chili sauce adds an exciting kick of spicy, tangy flavor. Its bright profile complements the sweetness of the pineapple and the richness of the shrimp. If Sriracha isn’t available or you prefer a different kind of heat, Chili Garlic Sauce is an excellent alternative, offering similar heat with an added garlicky punch.
Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving is a game-changer. It provides a zesty, bright acidity that awakens all the flavors in the dish, cutting through the richness and adding a delightful freshness that makes the pineapple and shrimp pop.
Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro offers a burst of green freshness and a distinctive herbaceous, slightly citrusy note. It’s a wonderful garnish that brightens the overall flavor and aroma of the fried rice.
Avocado Oil: Chosen for its delightful light and buttery flavor, avocado oil is also ideal for stir-frying due to its exceptionally high smoke point. This allows you to cook at higher temperatures without the oil breaking down or imparting a burnt flavor, ensuring your ingredients achieve that perfect sear and caramelization.

For detailed quantities and comprehensive nutritional information, please refer to the complete recipe card provided below.

Unleash Your Creativity: Make It Your Own

While our Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to personalize it and make it truly your own! Fried rice is incredibly versatile, allowing for endless creative modifications based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Let’s get those culinary juices flowing with some fun ways to customize your dish:

Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of fiery flavors and love a good heat kick, don’t hold back! You can easily intensify the spice level by adding finely diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the bell peppers. A generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes during the cooking process or as a garnish will also provide a satisfying warmth. Consider a dash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the rice for an extra layer of flavor and heat.
Embrace Island Vibes: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise! Infuse your shrimp with a Caribbean flair by seasoning them with a good quality jerk seasoning before cooking. For an added layer of sweetness and tropical essence, incorporate diced fresh mango alongside the pineapple. The combination of sweet mango, tangy pineapple, and spicy jerk seasoning creates an irresistible island-inspired experience.
Journey to Thai Taste: For an authentic taste of Thailand, introduce a splash of fish sauce (nam pla) into your fried rice mixture – it adds a profound umami depth that is characteristic of Thai cuisine. Garnish generously with fragrant fresh Thai basil leaves, which offer a distinct anise-like aroma and flavor. A final, extra squeeze of zesty lime juice will brighten all the complex flavors.
Curry Delight: Fancy an Indian-inspired twist? Sprinkle in some mild or medium curry powder during the vegetable sautéing stage to infuse the entire dish with warm, aromatic spices. Alternatively, stir in a spoonful of red or yellow curry paste for a more intense curry flavor. To complement the curry, throw in a handful of sweet green peas and golden raisins – their sweetness and texture add a delightful contrast to the savory spices.
Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional content and crunch factor by incorporating other quick-cooking vegetables. Diced carrots, snap peas, corn, or even thinly sliced cabbage or mushrooms would be excellent additions, providing more color, texture, and vitamins.
Protein Swap: Not a fan of shrimp, or simply want to try something different? This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Swap the shrimp for diced chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through and perfectly tender.

Crafting Your Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this flavorful Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a gourmet meal in no time. For even more detailed instructions and helpful notes, be sure to consult the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this page.

Begin by preparing your eggs and shrimp. Heat a tablespoon of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in your beaten eggs and scramble them, stirring gently until they are just set and fluffy. Transfer the cooked eggs to a separate plate and set aside. Next, increase the heat to medium-high and add another 2-3 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add your seasoned shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp for approximately 1 minute per side until they turn pink and opaque. Immediately remove the shrimp from the pan and transfer them to the plate with the eggs to prevent overcooking, which can make them tough.

two saucepan photos showing scrambled eggs in one, and sauteed shrimp in the second.

Now, it’s time to sauté your vegetables. In the same skillet (add a little more oil if needed), add the chopped fresh pineapple chunks and diced red bell peppers. Cook these for about 5 minutes over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. You want the pineapple to start caramelizing slightly and the bell peppers to become tender-crisp. Then, stir in the chopped green onions and minced garlic. Continue to cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it. The kitchen will begin to fill with enticing aromas at this stage!

two saucepan photos showing cooked vegetables in one, and vegetables with green herbs in second.

Next, incorporate the rice and seasonings. Add the chilled day-old rice to the skillet. Use the back of your spoon or spatula to break up any clumps of rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed among the vegetables. Continue to stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the rice is thoroughly heated through. Pour in the soy sauce and Sriracha, stirring well to coat all the rice grains and vegetables. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.

two saucepan photos showing white rice on top of vegetables in one, and rice mixed into vegetables in the second.

Finally, bring it all together. Return the scrambled eggs and cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently folding them into the fried rice mixture until everything is well combined and heated through. Squeeze in the fresh lime juice and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro. Give it one final taste test and adjust any seasonings – perhaps a little more soy sauce for umami, Sriracha for heat, or lime juice for brightness. For an optional extra layer of flavor and aroma, drizzle a teaspoon or two of sesame oil over the rice just before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice!

two saucepan photos showing shrimp and scrambled eggs in one, and shrimp and scrambled eggs with herbs mixed into rice in second.

Unlock the Secret to Perfect Fried Rice: Expert Tips

Transform your homemade fried rice from good to absolutely extraordinary with these invaluable expert tips. These small adjustments can make a significant difference in flavor, texture, and overall presentation:

The Right Rice is Everything: Say goodbye to sticky, clumpy fried rice forever! The golden rule for any stir-fry or fried rice recipe is to use chilled, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice has a high moisture content, which causes it to steam and clump together when fried, resulting in a mushy texture. Day-old rice, however, has dried out slightly, allowing the grains to separate beautifully and crisp up, guaranteeing that coveted fluffy, individual grain texture. If you’re short on time, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate or even freeze it for 30 minutes to an hour to dry it out quickly.
Hot and Fast for the Perfect Sear: To achieve that irresistible caramelized crust and juicy interior on your shrimp, ensure your skillet or wok is sizzling hot before adding them. High heat allows the shrimp to sear quickly, locking in their natural sweetness and preventing them from becoming rubbery. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to maintain high heat. This method applies to vegetables too – a hot pan helps them crisp up rather than steam.
The Magic of a Lime Squeeze: This simple finishing touch is a true game-changer. Just before serving, a fresh squeeze of lime juice over the entire dish will awaken all the flavors. The bright acidity of the lime cuts through the richness, enhances the sweetness of the pineapple, and adds a refreshing tang that makes every ingredient pop. It’s like a final flourish that elevates the entire dish.
Garnish with Flair: Presentation matters! A thoughtfully garnished dish not only looks more impressive but also adds layers of flavor and texture. Sprinkle your finished Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice with a generous amount of freshly chopped cilantro and thinly sliced green onions for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. For an extra aromatic touch, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil right before serving can add a nutty, savory depth that ties everything together beautifully.
Pineapple Pizzazz for Presentation: Want to truly “wow” your guests and add an authentic tropical touch? Serve your Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice in a hollowed-out fresh pineapple shell. Carefully halve a pineapple lengthwise, scoop out the flesh (which you can then chop and use in your fried rice!), and use the empty shell as a beautiful, edible serving bowl. This presentation instantly transforms a delicious meal into a show-stopping centerpiece, making it perfect for entertaining or special occasions.

close up overhead photo of fried rice with shrimp with wooden spoon on the side.

Perfect Pairings: Delicious Side Dishes

While Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience and add an extra layer of flavor and texture. Here are some fantastic options that beautifully complement the sweet and savory notes of this tropical fried rice:

Asian Green Beans: These tender-crisp green beans are the perfect vibrant sidekick for your fried rice. Sautéed with garlic and a hint of sweetness, they offer a delightful crunch and garlicky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the fried rice. They’re quick, easy to make, and add a healthy dose of green to your plate.
Crunchy Asian Chopped Salad: For a refreshing counterpoint, this salad is an excellent choice. With its crisp cabbage, a vibrant assortment of crunchy vegetables, and a tangy, savory dressing, it provides a light and zesty freshness that perfectly balances the warm, hearty fried rice. It’s a great way to introduce more raw vegetables and a cool element to your meal.
Vegetable Rice Paper Rolls: These delicate, fresh rolls are sure to impress. Filled with crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, and an array of fresh, vibrant vegetables, they offer a light, clean, and healthy accompaniment. Their cool, refreshing texture and mild flavors provide a lovely contrast to the robust fried rice, adding a fun and interactive element to your meal.
Easy Coleslaw: The bright and zesty flavors of a simple, creamy coleslaw provide a fantastic textural and taste contrast to the savory and slightly sweet fried rice. The crispness of the cabbage and the tang of the dressing cut through the richness, offering a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the main dish.
Crispy Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: For a classic Asian restaurant experience at home, serving your fried rice with crispy spring rolls or egg rolls provides an irresistible textural contrast and an extra layer of savory goodness.
Steamed Edamame: Simple, healthy, and delicious, a bowl of steamed edamame pods sprinkled with a pinch of sea salt makes for a fantastic appetizer or light side. They’re fun to eat and packed with protein.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?

Absolutely! Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the shrimp for other proteins like diced chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced pork, or even firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. If using chicken or pork, ensure it’s cooked through before adding the rice. For tofu, press it first to remove excess water, then pan-fry until golden and crispy before incorporating it. Remember to keep an eye on the cooking times, as different proteins will cook at varying rates.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, if fresh pineapple isn’t readily available or you’re short on time, canned pineapple chunks can certainly be used in a pinch. However, for the absolute best flavor and texture, we highly recommend using fresh, ripe pineapple. Fresh pineapple offers a more vibrant sweetness, a tangier taste, and a firmer texture that holds up better during stir-frying. If you opt for canned pineapple, it’s crucial to drain it thoroughly before adding it to your fried rice. Excess liquid can make your fried rice soggy and prevent it from achieving that desirable fluffy texture.

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

While day-old, chilled rice is truly ideal for fried rice to prevent stickiness and achieve individual, fluffy grains, you can use freshly cooked rice if that’s all you have. The key is to cool it down and dry it out as much as possible before adding it to the wok. After cooking, spread the fresh rice in a thin, even layer on a large baking sheet. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature for at least 30-60 minutes, or speed up the process by placing it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This helps evaporate excess moisture, reducing the likelihood of mushy fried rice. Then, gently break up any clumps before stir-frying.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to boost the nutritional value of your fried rice, brown rice is an excellent substitute for white rice. Brown rice brings a slightly nutty flavor and a chewier texture, along with a higher fiber content and more essential nutrients. Just keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time than white rice, so plan accordingly. Once cooked, ensure it’s also chilled and day-old for the best fried rice texture, just like white rice.

How do I store leftovers and how long do they last?

Leftover Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s important to cool the rice quickly before refrigerating. When reheating, you can use a microwave or gently re-fry it in a skillet with a tiny bit of oil over medium heat until warmed through, which can help restore some of its texture. Avoid leaving cooked rice at room temperature for extended periods to ensure food safety.

Can I freeze Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice?

While you can technically freeze fried rice, the texture of the shrimp and pineapple might change slightly upon thawing and reheating, becoming a bit softer. If you choose to freeze, ensure the fried rice is completely cooled, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

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5 from 2 reviews

Author: Katya
Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 1x
Category: Main
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Thai

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Description

Transform your dinner routine with our exquisite Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice! This quick and easy recipe brings together plump, succulent shrimp, vibrant, sweet pineapple chunks, and a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables, all stir-fried with fluffy rice and savory seasonings. It’s a beautifully balanced dish, offering a delightful harmony of sweet and savory notes in every mouthwatering bite. Perfect for a busy weeknight or an impressive meal for guests, this Thai-inspired fried rice is a truly satisfying and flavorful experience.

Ingredients

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3–4 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil, essential for high-temperature stir-frying
3 large eggs, beaten for fluffy scrambled pieces
1 lb. (26-30 count) shrimp, peeled and deveined for ease of eating
2 cups chopped fresh pineapple, for tropical sweetness and tang
1 red bell pepper, diced for color and crispness
1 cup chopped green onions, white and green parts for mild onion flavor
3 garlic cloves, minced for aromatic depth
4 cups chilled day-old rice, preferably jasmine or basmati for best texture
2–3 Tbsp. soy sauce, plus more to taste for umami flavor
2–3 tsp. Sriracha, plus more to taste for a spicy kick, or chili garlic sauce
1 lime, juiced for a bright, zesty finish
Chopped fresh cilantro, to taste, for fresh herbaceous notes
Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to season shrimp and balance flavors
Sesame oil, optional, for an extra nutty aroma

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Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, lightly season the peeled and deveined shrimp with ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon of fresh black pepper. Toss gently to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated. Set aside while you prepare other ingredients.
Cook the Eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil (or your chosen high-heat oil) in a large non-stick skillet or a large wok over medium heat. Pour in the 3 beaten large eggs. Cook, stirring continuously with a spatula, until the eggs are lightly scrambled, fluffy, and just set but still moist (about 1-2 minutes). Transfer the cooked scrambled eggs to a clean plate and set aside. If necessary, quickly wipe out the skillet with a paper towel.
Sear the Shrimp: Increase the heat in your skillet to medium-high. Add an additional 2-3 tablespoons of avocado oil. Once the oil is shimmering and hot (it should sizzle immediately when a drop of water is added), add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and steam the shrimp instead of searing them. Cook the shrimp for approximately 1 minute per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to the plate with the scrambled eggs to prevent them from becoming tough or rubbery.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same hot skillet (add a touch more oil if needed), add the chopped fresh pineapple and diced red bell peppers. Cook, undisturbed, for about 3 minutes to allow the pineapple to begin caramelizing and the peppers to soften slightly. Stir the pineapple mixture and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, until the pineapple shows some golden-brown edges and the peppers are tender-crisp. Now, stir in the chopped green onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the green onions are slightly wilted. Avoid burning the garlic.
Combine with Rice and Sauce: Add the 4 cups of chilled day-old rice to the skillet with the vegetables. Use the back of your spoon or spatula to break up any large clumps of rice, ensuring it mixes evenly with the sautéed ingredients. Continue to stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through and absorb some of the flavors from the pan. Pour in the 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 2-3 teaspoons of Sriracha (adjusting to your preferred level of spice). Stir thoroughly to ensure all the rice and vegetables are well coated with the sauce. Taste the fried rice and season with additional salt and pepper as needed to achieve your desired flavor balance.
Finishing Touches: Return the scrambled eggs and cooked shrimp to the skillet with the fried rice. Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is well combined and heated through. Squeeze the juice from ½ a lime over the entire dish and sprinkle generously with chopped fresh cilantro. Give it one final taste test and adjust any seasonings (more soy sauce, Sriracha, or lime juice) to your liking. For an extra layer of nutty aroma and flavor, drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of sesame oil over the rice just before serving (optional). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Shrimp Selection: For the best results and a satisfying bite, we highly recommend using jumbo or extra-large shrimp (approximately 26-30 count per pound). If you opt for smaller shrimp, be very vigilant with your cooking time, as they can overcook and become rubbery much more quickly.
Pineapple Quality: The success of this dish heavily relies on the quality of your pineapple. For the most vibrant flavor and natural sweetness, always strive to use fresh, ripe pineapple. Fresh pineapple will provide a far superior taste experience compared to its canned counterpart, which can sometimes taste muted or overly sweet.
Rice Preparation is Key: To achieve that perfect, non-mushy fried rice texture, using leftover or day-old rice is paramount. The drying process that occurs overnight (or with quick cooling) removes excess moisture from the rice grains, allowing them to separate and crisp up beautifully when stir-fried. Freshly cooked, warm rice retains too much moisture, leading to a soggy and clumpy outcome.
Leftover Storage: Any remaining Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice can be safely stored. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is reheated thoroughly to a safe internal temperature before consuming.

Nutrition

Serving Size: ⅙ of recipe
Calories: 393
Sugar: 7.7 g
Sodium: 306.8 mg
Fat: 12.6 g
Carbohydrates: 47.5 g
Protein: 22.6 g
Cholesterol: 214.6 mg