If you’re looking for a vibrant and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal, look no further than this Chili Lime Shrimp with Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic, and Olive Oil recipe. Imagine succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, aromatic garlic, and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavors that dance on your palate, making it a dish you’ll return to time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chili Lime Shrimp with Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic, and Olive Oil recipe stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. The shrimp soak up the tangy lime juice and the heat from the red pepper flakes, creating a delightful balance that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Moreover, shrimp are a fantastic source of protein and cook in mere minutes, making them a great choice for busy weeknights. They are low in calories and high in essential nutrients, which means you can enjoy a hearty meal without any guilt. Pair this dish with a fresh salad or some rice, and you have a wholesome meal that will keep you satisfied.
Additionally, this recipe is versatile. You can easily adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less crushed red pepper or even experimenting with different herbs for garnish. If you’re looking for a gluten-free or low-carb meal, this shrimp dish fits the bill perfectly.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
There are countless reasons to try this Chili Lime Shrimp with Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic, and Olive Oil recipe. The first is its flavor profile. The combination of lime juice, garlic, and crushed red pepper creates an irresistible marinade that infuses the shrimp with a fresh and zesty taste. The addition of paprika adds a subtle smokiness, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
Another reason to try this recipe is its health benefits. Shrimp are packed with protein, and each serving contains approximately 24 grams of protein while being low in fat. The healthy fats from olive oil also contribute to heart health, making this dish a nutritious option for any meal. Plus, the antioxidants found in garlic and the vitamin C from lime juice add even more health benefits.
Lastly, the cooking technique is straightforward. Whether you choose to sauté the shrimp in a skillet or grill them outdoors, the process is quick and easy. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table, making it a perfect choice for those busy nights when you just don’t have the time to spend in the kitchen.
Ingredients and Utensils Needed
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Recommended Utensils
- Large mixing bowl (for marinating the shrimp)
- Skillet or grill pan (for cooking the shrimp)
- Spatula (for flipping the shrimp)
- Measuring spoons (for measuring the ingredients)
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping garlic and cilantro)
- Serving platter (for presenting the shrimp)
To ensure your Chili Lime Shrimp with Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic, and Olive Oil turns out perfectly, it’s essential to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also allows you to focus on achieving that perfect sear on the shrimp.
Detailed Recipe Steps
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, the juice of 2 limes, and the zest of 1 lime. Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until the shrimp are well coated with the marinade.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the shrimp marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for up to 1 hour for a deeper flavor. This step is crucial, as it allows the shrimp to absorb all the delicious flavors from the marinade.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: While the shrimp are marinating, preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot enough to give the shrimp a nice sear, which will enhance the flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your shrimp.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the shrimp using a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until fully cooked and slightly charred. The shrimp should be firm to the touch and no longer translucent.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the heat and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with additional lime wedges if desired. This adds a lovely touch of freshness and brightness to the dish.
**Practical Tips:** For an even quicker meal, consider using pre-cooked shrimp that can be quickly marinated and seared. Also, ensure your shrimp are of high quality; fresh or frozen shrimp can work well, but thaw them completely if using frozen. For added flavor, consider adding a splash of tequila to the marinade for a unique twist.
Tips and Variations
This Chili Lime Shrimp with Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic, and Olive Oil recipe is versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it to fit your dietary preferences or taste. Here are some tips and variations:
- Vegan Version: While shrimp is the star of this dish, you can replace it with firm tofu or tempeh marinated in the same flavorful mixture. This will create a delicious plant-based alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is inherently gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional sauces or sides you choose to serve with it also meet gluten-free standards.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add fresh jalapeños for an extra kick or even use a milder pepper if you prefer less heat.
- Additional Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet when cooking the shrimp to create a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this shrimp dish with a side of jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad, such as a cucumber and avocado salad, to add some crunch and texture.
**Common Mistakes to Avoid:** Make sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Keep a close eye on them while cooking and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Additionally, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the shrimp to achieve that beautiful sear.
Nutritional Values and Benefits
Each serving of this Chili Lime Shrimp with Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic, and Olive Oil contains the following nutritional values (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 24g
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
**Health Benefits:** The shrimp in this recipe are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health. The lime juice provides vitamin C, boosting your immune system, while garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Chili Lime Shrimp?
Serve with jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw them completely before marinating.
How can I store leftover Chili Lime Shrimp?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Marinate ahead, but cook just before serving for best results.
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Use large shrimp for best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chili Lime Shrimp with Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic, and Olive Oil recipe is a delightful and easy dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Perfect for any occasion, this shrimp dish is not only delicious but also healthy and quick to prepare. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations in the comments below, and feel free to share this recipe with friends and family. Enjoy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest page for inspiration!
For other shrimp recipes, you can visit these links for more ideas:
- Garlic Butter Shrimp with Smoked Paprika, Fresh Parsley, and Lemon Zest
- Creamy Coconut Shrimp with Ginger, Garlic, and Curry Leaves
- Sweet Chili Shrimp with Honey Soy Sauce and Toasted Sesame Seeds
- Mediterranean Shrimp with Olive Oil, Oregano, Cherry Tomatoes, and Garlic
- Turmeric Spiced Shrimp with Ground Coriander, Cumin, and Fresh Lime Juice
Chili Lime Shrimp with Crushed Red Pepper, Garlic, and Olive Oil
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the shrimp are well coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the shrimp marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Remove the shrimp from the heat and transfer to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and additional lime wedges if desired.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
