If you’re craving a quick, flavorful seafood dish, this Spicy Shrimp Recipe is the perfect choice. It’s loaded with bold spices, has just the right amount of heat, and is ready in only 15 minutes.
The combination of smoked paprika, cayenne, and garlic creates an irresistible taste that pairs well with many sides. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or making a dish for guests, this recipe guarantees satisfaction.
1. Spicy Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired heat level)
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½ teaspoon cumin
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1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra wedges for serving)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Shrimp: Start by making sure your shrimp is properly peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help them sear properly when cooking.
Make the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, and chili flakes (if you’re using them). Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This spice blend is what brings the heat and flavor to the shrimp.
Cook the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Season the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in the spice mix, making sure each shrimp is coated evenly. Add the shrimp to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Finish with Lemon & Parsley: Once the shrimp is cooked through, squeeze the juice of one lemon over them, giving them a fresh, zesty kick. Stir the shrimp to coat them in the lemon juice. Remove from heat, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and give them a final toss.
Serve: Serve the spicy shrimp with extra lemon wedges on the side. The lemon will cut through the heat while adding an extra burst of freshness.
2. Tips for Perfect Spicy Shrimp
To ensure your spicy shrimp turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can result in rubbery shrimp, which nobody wants. Watch closely and remove the shrimp from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Adjust the Heat: The cayenne pepper and chili flakes add the spice, but you can easily adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing these ingredients. If you love heat, go for the full dose of cayenne and chili flakes. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne or leave the chili flakes out entirely.
Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley really make a difference in this recipe. The vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients will elevate the dish and give it that extra punch.
Sear, Don’t Stew: Make sure to use high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. If you put too many shrimp in at once, they’ll release moisture and end up steaming instead of getting that perfect sear.
Let the Shrimp Rest: Once your shrimp is cooked, let it rest for a minute before serving. This allows the juices and flavors to settle in and ensures the shrimp stays tender.
3. What to Eat With Spicy Shrimp
When it comes to pairing the spicy shrimp, there are endless possibilities! Here are a few of my personal favorite ways to enjoy this dish:
Rice: A bowl of fluffy white rice or cilantro lime rice pairs beautifully with spicy shrimp. The rice helps balance the heat, while also soaking up all the delicious seasoning from the shrimp.
Vegetables: Sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus, complement the shrimp without overpowering the dish. Their mild flavors contrast nicely with the bold spices in the shrimp.
Salad: A crisp salad with a refreshing dressing can be a great accompaniment. The coolness of the salad cuts through the spice, providing a nice balance. I love a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette alongside spicy shrimp.
Tacos: Spice up your taco night by using the shrimp as a filling. Add a bit of avocado, shredded cabbage, and a squeeze of lime. This makes for a fun and flavorful meal!
Bread: A crusty baguette or soft naan bread is perfect for sopping up any extra juices or sauce from the shrimp. It’s a great way to enjoy every last bit of flavor on your plate.
This Spicy Shrimp recipe is incredibly easy to make, but it packs a ton of flavor into every bite. The combination of smoky paprika, fiery cayenne, and fresh lemon creates a perfect balance of heat and brightness.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with just about anything – from rice to tacos or a crisp salad. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for a busy weeknight but impressive enough for entertaining guests.
