Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary flavor explosion! This Sauteed Shrimp Two Ways with Garlic and Chiles recipe is not just a meal, it's a mouthwatering journey through Mexican-inspired cuisine that promises to tantalize your senses and leave you craving more. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and will make you feel like a professional chef right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 red chiles, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing and prevent steaming. Season the shrimp lightly with salt.
- Prepare all ingredients in advance: mince the garlic, finely chop the red chiles, and have lime juice and olive oil ready nearby.
- Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and allow it to shimmer but not smoke.
- Divide the shrimp into two batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking. First batch should be cooked for approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- For the first batch, add half the minced garlic and chopped chiles when shrimp are nearly opaque. Stir quickly to prevent garlic from burning.
- Cook until shrimp turn pink and curl slightly, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Remove first batch and keep warm.
- Repeat the process with the second batch of shrimp, using remaining garlic and chiles.
- Once both batches are cooked, drizzle lime juice over the shrimp and toss gently to combine flavors.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh chopped chiles if desired. Best enjoyed hot as an appetizer or main course.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of a perfect sear: Always pat your shrimp completely dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking shrimp in two batches allows each piece to cook evenly and develop a delicious caramelized crust.
- Watch your heat and timing: Medium-high heat is crucial. Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side to prevent rubbery texture.
- Timing is everything with garlic: Add minced garlic towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and maintain its aromatic flavor.
- Fresh is best: Use fresh lime juice and high-quality olive oil for the most vibrant taste.
- Serve immediately: Shrimp are best enjoyed hot and fresh off the pan to preserve their tender texture and maximum flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 165mg
