Pan Fried Shrimp are juicy and flavorful bites that are super quick to make! With just a few spices and a little oil, you can whip up a tasty dish that everyone will love.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of shrimp cooking away? I like to serve them with a squeeze of lemon on top—so fresh and zesty! You’ll be making this dish again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for frying. If you’re cooking for someone with shellfish allergies, you could try chicken or tofu for a different protein. Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp works too—just thaw them before cooking.
Olive Oil or Butter: I love using olive oil for a Mediterranean flavor, but butter adds a rich taste. If you’re looking to keep it dairy-free, choose avocado oil or coconut oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives an amazing aroma and flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use about a teaspoon instead.
Spices: Smoked paprika offers a nice depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine, or try a pinch of chili powder for some heat. Adjust the cayenne based on your taste preference!
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness. You could substitute it with basil or cilantro, depending on what flavor profile you like best.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp is quick, so keep an eye on them! Here are a few tips for perfectly cooked shrimp:
- Make sure the shrimp are dry before seasoning. This helps them sear nicely.
- When adding shrimp to the skillet, don’t overcrowd them. Cook in batches if necessary, so they get a nice browning.
- Cook until they turn pink and opaque. If they curl tightly, that’s a sign they might be overcooked.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re done. They’ll keep cooking a bit even after you take them off the stove.
With these tips and insights, you’ll be ready to tackle pan-fried shrimp like a pro, making it a delightful dish for any occasion!
Pan Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pan Fried Shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 10 minutes to cook. In just 20 minutes total, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is vital because dryness helps achieve a nice sear when frying. Once they’re dry, place them in a bowl.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In the bowl, toss the shrimp with the smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling spicy), and dried oregano. Mix well until all shrimp are evenly coated in the spices. This will add great flavor!
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot and shimmering before adding the shrimp.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You’ll want it to be fragrant but watch closely so it doesn’t burn. Burnt garlic can turn your dish bitter!
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly browned. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through and caramelized. Cooking time can vary, so keep an eye on the color!
6. Final Touches:
After cooking, remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with lemon wedges. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top will brighten the flavors beautifully. Serve immediately and enjoy these spicy, garlicky delights!
This dish is perfect as an appetizer, on top of salads, or alongside rice and veggies. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the frozen shrimp are completely thawed before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry thoroughly to achieve that perfect sear.
How Should I Store Leftover Pan Fried Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid overcooking.
Can I Adjust the Spice Levels?
Definitely! Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. You could also add milder spices like paprika if you prefer less heat, or include additional spices like chili flakes if you love it spicy!
What Else Can I Serve with Pan Fried Shrimp?
Pan Fried Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! You can serve them over rice, pasta, or mixed greens. They also make a great addition to tacos or as a topping for avocado toast. Feel free to get creative!
