Indulge in the simplicity and flavorful taste of our pan-seared shrimp recipe. With just a few key ingredients, including zesty lemon, salt, and pepper, you can elevate the natural goodness of shrimp by sealing in its succulent flavors in a skillet with a touch of oil.
It’s important to keep in mind when cooking shrimp, there’s no need to overcomplicate the dish so keep it seasonings simple and cook it quickly. In fact, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, a great bite is easy to obtain.
It’s essential to understand that shrimp requires minimal cooking time, with a maximum of 5 minutes. This can be a challenging concept for some, as overcooking shrimp can result in a rubbery texture that diminishes its appeal. Rest assured, by following our recipe precisely, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked shrimp every time.
We also want to dispel the misconception that shrimp is inherently unhealthy. It’s not the shrimp itself but rather the cooking methods and accompaniments that determine its healthiness. Traditional preparations often involved frying or dousing the shrimp in mayo-based sauces. Our recipe allows you to savor the natural flavors of shrimp while keeping it wholesome and nutritious.
Get ready to savor this quick and delicious dish that will leave you craving more.
Why you should try this recipe
I love this recipe for several reasons. Firstly, shrimp is not only delicious, but it also cooks incredibly quickly, making it a convenient option for various occasions. Whether you want to incorporate them into a refreshing salad, pair them with other healthy side dishes, or serve them as an appetizer, shrimp fits perfectly in any role.
Not only are they easy to cook, but they are also effortless to prepare and serve. If you opt for pre-cleaned and frozen shrimp, the amount of work involved is minimal, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
Furthermore, shrimp is a low-calorie protein choice, making it a great option for those mindful of their caloric intake. On average, shrimp contains around 100 calories per 100 grams. This nutritional aspect adds to its appeal, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish without compromising your health goals.
Ingredients
1. Shrimp: These delicious seafood delicacies are the star ingredient of the recipe. Fresh and cleaned shrimp will work best for optimal results.
2. Garlic: Garlic adds an aromatic and flavorful twist to the shrimp. You can finely chop the garlic before cooking.
3. Lime: Lime juice adds a refreshing and tangy touch to the shrimp. You can squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp before cooking.
4. Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the flavor of the shrimp. Adjust the amount according to your personal preference.
5. Oil: A touch of oil in the skillet will help sear and brown the shrimp. You can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or any other oil of your choice.
Instructions for making pan-seared shrimp
Variations and substitutions
1. Swap shrimp for prawns: If you prefer, you can use prawns instead of shrimp. Keep in mind that prawns may require an additional two minutes of cooking time due to their larger size.
2. Experiment with different oils: Instead of using regular vegetable oil, try using butter, sesame oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil to add different flavors to the dish. Each oil will bring its unique taste to the shrimp.
3. Choose between lemon and lime: While lemon is known for its strong flavor, lime adds a citrusy and aromatic taste. You can opt for either depending on your preference. If you decide to use lime, consider adding a pinch of grated lime zest for an extra citrusy finish.
Tips and Tricks Section for pan seared shrimp
1. When buying shrimp, opt for frozen and cleaned ones, but be cautious that they are not slightly pre-cooked. Raw shrimp should have a light gray color, while shrimp that have been cleaned in hot water to remove the shell will turn pinkish-white. If you end up with pre-cooked shrimp, cook them for a maximum of two minutes.
2. Ensure that your skillet or pan is heated well before cooking. You’ll notice that the oil appears more liquid and disperses quickly. To test if the skillet is hot enough, add a shrimp and listen for a sizzling sound. If you hear it, cook that shrimp on both sides quickly, and then add the rest of the shrimp.
3. Place the shrimp in the skillet quickly, ensuring that they are perfectly separated from each other. This allows them to brown evenly. It’s essential to follow the rule of cooking for two minutes on each side.
4. Just before adding the shrimp to the skillet, squeeze some lemon over them to prevent the lemon from cooking the shrimp.
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Pan Seared Shrimp
Ingredients
- 350 g (12oz) clean, deveined shrimp
- 1 lime Juice
- 1 tsp sunflower oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the clean shrimp with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, a splash of lime juice, and mix well.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the sunflower oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the pan.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, and are cooked through.
- While cooking, drizzle a little more lime juice over the shrimp for added flavor.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the pan and transfer to a serving dish.
- Serve the pan-seared shrimp immediately as an appetizer or as part of a main course.
- You can garnish with additional lime wedges or fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes
** Amount is based on ingredients that specify value for this nutrient and 0 for those that don’t.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
