Spicy Garlic Lime Shrimp

πŸ•’ Prep: 10 min
πŸ”₯ Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a quick yet flavor-packed dish, this Spicy Garlic Lime Shrimp is your answer. With its zesty lime and a hint of heat, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends.

Ingredients for Spicy Garlic Lime Shrimp

The star here is, of course, the shrimp. Opt for large ones for a meatier bite. Then there's the garlic β€” its robust flavor is crucial for that savory base. Olive oil helps to saute everything nicely, while butter adds a rich finish. Freshly squeezed lime juice offers a tangy contrast, and red pepper flakes deliver just the right amount of heat. A sprinkle of salt and pepper rounds out the flavors, and fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice just doesn't compare.
  • For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Pat the shrimp dry before cooking to get a nice sear.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a light quinoa salad. For a low-carb option, serve it over zucchini noodles or a fresh green salad. A cold, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors wonderfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
How do I adjust the spiciness?
You can reduce or increase the red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
It's best to use raw shrimp for this recipe, as cooking pre-cooked shrimp can make them rubbery.

Spicy Garlic Lime Shrimp Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Use a pan that gives the shrimp space to spread out for even cooking. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Stir it around for just about a minute until it's fragrant, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. You'll want them to sizzle when they hit the pan. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. This is your cue to add the butter, lime juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, letting the butter melt and mix with the lime juice to create a savory sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to let all those flavors mingle.

Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro and a few lime wedges for that extra zing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Perfect balance of spice and citrus.
  • Minimal ingredients with maximum flavor impact.
  • Great for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Juice of 2 limes
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Stir in butter, lime juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

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