Pan Seared Shrimp

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Are you ready to whip up a quick and delicious dish that will impress not just your taste buds but also your guests? This pan-seared shrimp recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends.

The combination of garlic, butter, and spices brings out the sweetness of the shrimp, making each bite a delightful experience.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and comes together in under 30 minutes!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This pan-seared shrimp recipe is not only incredibly flavorful, but it’s also highly versatile.

You can serve it over a bed of rice, toss it into pasta, or accompany it with crusty bread to soak up the delightful buttery sauce.

The ease of preparation makes it accessible for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

The addition of herbs and spices elevates the dish, while the shrimp cooks to perfection with a crispy, golden exterior.

Trust us—once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) butter
• 1 pound (450 g) raw shrimp, 31-40 count per pound, thawed if frozen, peeled and deveined
• 4 small garlic cloves, minced or pressed
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika, smoked or regular
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 lemon, juice and zest to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

How To Make Pan Seared Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by ensuring your shrimp are thawed if they were previously frozen.

Peel and devein them, making sure to rinse them under cold water.

Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve that beautiful sear.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the herbs and spices.

This simple seasoning adds layers of flavor to each shrimp.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), add in the butter.

Allow the butter to melt and froth, mixing it with the olive oil for an added depth of flavor.

Step 4: Sear the Shrimp

Carefully place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer.

Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the shrimp rather than sear them.

Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown.

Step 5: Add Garlic

Once the shrimp are browned on one side, flip them over and add the minced garlic to the pan.

Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the shrimp to become opaque and the garlic to release its lovely aroma.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon and Parsley

When the shrimp are fully cooked (they should be pink and opaque), remove the skillet from the heat.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, and sprinkle with lemon zest and chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Give everything a gentle toss to combine.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the delicious shrimp to a serving dish, adding any remaining sauce from the pan on top.

Enjoy immediately, perhaps over pasta, in tacos, or alongside a fresh salad.

Expert Tips

• Ensure shrimp are completely dry before adding to the hot pan to achieve that perfect sear.
• If you love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Do not overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to maintain the heat of the skillet.
• Customize the herbs! Fresh basil or cilantro can add a lovely twist to the flavor profile.

Variations and Customizations

• Add vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus for a complete one-pan meal.
• Swap out the Italian seasoning for Cajun or taco seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• For a creamy sauce, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk after cooking the shrimp.
• Experiment with different citrus juices, such as lime or orange, for a unique twist.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover shrimp, don’t fret! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra butter or olive oil to keep it moist.

Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can lead to overcooked and rubbery shrimp.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure they are thawed completely, peeled, and deveined before cooking.

What can I serve with pan-seared shrimp?

Pan-seared shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauces.

How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque.

They should curl into a loose “C” shape.

Avoid cooking for too long as they can become tough.

Can I make this dish in advance?

It’s best to enjoy the shrimp fresh.

However, you can prepare the seasoning and have the shrimp cleaned ahead of time to save on prep.

Conclusion

This pan-seared shrimp recipe encapsulates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that come together in perfect unison.

It’s quick, simple, and delivers a flavorful punch that’s sure to make any mealtime special.

With the ability to customize and adapt the ingredients, it’s a meal that can be reinvented every time you make it.

Gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and get ready to savor a sensational shrimp dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Happy cooking!