Shrimp is a tremendously popular seafood variety among Americans. Although shrimp can have a somewhat mild flavor, this type of seafood is incredibly versatile and when flavored correctly, can boast incredible umami and savory flavors. Here we’ll take a look at some of the best shrimp recipes around so you can put your shrimp-cooking skills to the test.
Why Everyone Should be Eating Shrimp
No matter who you are or where you’re from, chances are you’ve had shrimp at one point or another. This popular seafood is full of flavor, has a wonderful texture, and is a great source of nutrients. Shrimps are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin D, two important components for maintaining a healthy diet. Furthermore, shrimp is a low-calorie food, with only 85 calories per 100 gram serving. Due to its high nutrient and low-calorie content, shrimp is a great choice if you’re looking to make healthier food choices.
Including Shrimp in Your Diet
Aside from its many nutritional benefits, shrimp is incredibly easy to cook, and can play a major role in a variety of recipes. From stir-fries to casseroles, shrimp can be used in a variety of ways to spice up your meal. Different types of shrimp can also be used in different dishes; for example, small baby shrimps are often used in pasta dishes and salads, while jumbo shrimp are great for grilling and barbecuing.
These recipes can be great for all kinds of occasions, from romantic dinners to a fun night in with friends. Not to mention, shrimp is a very affordable type of seafood, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal.
Tasty Shrimp Recipes
Ready to try some delicious shrimp dishes? From spicy to savory, here are some recipes to try out:
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
This easy and delicious recipe is perfect for those who want to go all out with the flavors. The buttery garlic flavor of this dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. All you need is some shrimp, butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of shrimp
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted.
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Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
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Add shrimp and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
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Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
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Cook for an additional 2 minutes until shrimp are cooked through.
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Serve hot.
Baked Coconut Shrimp
This tropical-inspired dish is the perfect entrée for a beach-inspired dinner party. It is packed with flavors and is sure to be a crowd pleaser. All you need is some coconut, shrimp, and aromatics.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of shrimp
- 1 ½ cups of unsweetened coconut flakes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F.
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In a shallow bowl, combine the coconut flakes, garlic, ginger, olive oil, lime juice, and salt and pepper.
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Place the shrimp in the bowl and mix until the shrimp is fully coated.
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Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through.
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Serve hot.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
This easy recipe is great for those nights when you want something grilled but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. All you need is some shrimp, your favorite mix of spices, and some skewers.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of shrimp
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers
Instructions:
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
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In a bowl, combine the olive oil, papika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and salt and pepper.
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Place the shrimp in the bowl and mix until the shrimp is fully coated.
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Thread the shrimp onto the skewers.
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Place the skewers on the grill.
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Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp is cooked through.
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Serve hot.
Zesty Shrimp Scampi
If you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent, this is the dish for you. This recipe combines the flavors of garlic and butter with the zing of lemon and white wine, all in one tasty dish. All you need is some shrimp, butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of shrimp
- 1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat until melted.
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Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
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Add the shrimp and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
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Add the white wine and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
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Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Spicy Shrimp Pad Thai
This classic Thai dish is sure to be a hit. It’s packed with flavors and has the perfect combination of sweetness and spice. All you need are some shrimps, pad Thai sauce, and your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of shrimp
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of Pad Thai sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cups cooked rice noodles
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- ½ cup chopped peanuts
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
- Add the Pad Thai sauce and honey and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through.
- Add the cooked noodles, bean sprouts, and peanuts.
- Cook for 5 minutes until everything is hot and the noodles are fully cooked.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Shrimp is one of the most popular seafood dishes out there and these recipes prove why. From grilled skewers to zesty scampi, these recipes are sure to take your shrimp cooking skills to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or just having some friends over, these recipes are sure to impress. So next time you’re looking for a new seafood dish, go ahead and try one of these tasty shrimp recipes.
