Pan Seared Shrimp

There’s something magical about cooking up a batch of Pan Seared Shrimp in the kitchen. I remember the first time I attempted this dish; the aroma filled my home, stirring nostalgia and excitement. It was a warm summer evening, and I wanted to create a quick yet special meal that would bring everyone together. As I prepped the ingredients, the vibrant colors and fresh scents of the shrimp, olive oil, and spices made my heart race with anticipation. The simplicity of this dish is what makes it truly special; it doesn’t require elaborate techniques or hours of waiting. Instead, it’s about embracing the flavors and letting the quality of the ingredients shine. From the moment I tossed the seasoned shrimp into the hot skillet, I knew I was in for a delightful experience. Each bite was tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, reminding me of beachside dinners and carefree days. In just a few minutes, I had a gourmet meal that felt like a celebration of summer.

What Goes Into Pan Seared Shrimp

When it comes to Pan Seared Shrimp, the ingredients are simple yet essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavor. The key players in this recipe are fresh shrimp, which provides a lovely tender texture, and a blend of spices to bring out its natural sweetness. Each ingredient plays a critical role, harmonizing together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but memorable.

• Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and patted dry with paper towels. Freshness is crucial, as the shrimp is the star of the dish!
• Olive Oil: 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil provide the perfect medium for searing, enhancing the flavors of the spices.
• Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt helps to bring out the natural flavors in the shrimp.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth.
• Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder lends a lovely aromatic quality to the dish.
• Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder complements the other seasonings without overpowering the dish.
• Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon of paprika adds not only flavor but also a beautiful color to the finished dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon of optional crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Lemon Juice: Juice of 1/2 lemon brightens the entire dish, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley for garnish adds a pop of color and freshness.

How to Cook Pan Seared Shrimp

Cooking Pan Seared Shrimp is a straightforward process that yields delectable results. Follow these easy steps to bring this dish to life. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible flavors that come together in just a few minutes.

1. Start by placing your cleaned and dried shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and if you like some heat, the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until the shrimp is evenly coated. You want to see the flavors clinging to the seafood.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot enough to sear the shrimp quickly. Add a drizzle of olive oil if you like, but the oil from the marinated shrimp should suffice. Once the skillet is hot, carefully add the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Let the shrimp cook undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes. You should begin to see the edges turning pink, signaling that they’re cooking through. The sound of sizzling is music to the ears, showing that you’re on the right path.
4. Once you see the pink color spreading, it’s time to flip the shrimp. Use a spatula or tongs to turn them over gently. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until they are fully cooked and opaque. The shrimp should be a beautiful coral color, with a slightly firm texture.
5. After the shrimp is cooked through, remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the hot shrimp, allowing the citrus to brighten the flavors. The smell will be invigorating!
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the full flavor.

Make It Your Own

Customizing Pan Seared Shrimp is part of the fun. Here are some ideas to make this dish your own!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pair with Grains: Serve with quinoa or rice to make it a heartier meal.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: A spicy aioli or garlic butter sauce can elevate the dish.

Side Dish Ideas for Pan Seared Shrimp

• Garlic Bread: This is a classic pairing. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any juices.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad complements the shrimp‘s flavors beautifully.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a vibrant color and a subtle crunch to your plate.
• Pasta Primavera: Toss your shrimp with pasta and fresh vegetables for a hearty dish.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad can complement the shrimp nicely, adding texture and flavor.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a fresh and tangy balance to the dish.
• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf can enhance the meal, creating a satisfying side.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables enhance the meal and provide a beautiful color contrast on the plate.

FAQ

Conclusion

Pan Seared Shrimp is truly a standout dish that combines simplicity with flavor. It’s a quick meal that elevates your dinner table without requiring much effort. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself. The satisfying taste and fresh ingredients will undoubtedly impress!

Pan Seared Shrimp

The ultimate comfort food, Pan Seared Shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With succulent shrimp cooked to perfection and seasoned just right, it's a must-try for any seafood lover. Enjoy the bright flavors and easy preparation – make it tonight!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Shrimp peeled, deveined, and patted dry with paper towels
• 1.5 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes optional
• 1/2 lemon Lemon Juice
• to taste Parsley Freshly chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Skillet
• Peeler

Method

 

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional crushed red pepper flakes until evenly coated.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook without moving them for 1-2 minutes until they start to turn pink.
3. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until fully cooked and seared. Remove from heat.
4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking.
• Tip 2: You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Tip 3: Serve with quinoa or rice to make it a heartier meal.
• Tip 4: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Tip 5: A spicy aioli or garlic butter sauce can elevate the dish.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.