Name: Garlic Shrimp With Paprika Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp; 6 garlic cloves; 1 tbsp Spanish olive oil; red pepper flakes; pinch paprika; salt; ¼ cup fresh herbs like cilantro; lime wedges

This delightful garlic shrimp with paprika recipe is a perfect blend of succulent shrimp and aromatic spices. It’s quick and easy to make, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings.

Photos of Garlic Shrimp With Paprika Recipe

One ingredient that may not be commonly found in your home is Spanish olive oil. This type of olive oil has a distinct flavor profile that enhances the dish. Make sure to pick up fresh cilantro and lime wedges when you go to the supermarket as they add a fresh and zesty finish.

Ingredients For Garlic Shrimp With Paprika

shrimp: The main protein of the dish, bringing a sweet and slightly briny flavor.

garlic cloves: Provides a pungent aroma and enhances the overall taste.

spanish olive oil: Offers a rich and fruity flavor specific to Spanish cuisine.

red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat to the dish.

paprika: Gives a smoky and sweet depth of flavor.

salt: Essential for seasoning, balancing, and enhancing flavors.

fresh herbs like cilantro: Adds a fresh and herbaceous note.

lime wedges: Provides a bright and tangy finish.

One reader, Humberto Nettles says:

This garlic shrimp with paprika recipe is a game-changer! The shrimp is perfectly seasoned and the garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor. The hint of paprika and fresh herbs make it irresistible. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!

Humberto Nettles

Key Techniques for Cooking Garlic Shrimp with Paprika

How to mince garlic: Finely chop the garlic cloves into small pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavor. How to sauté: Cook the garlic and red pepper flakes in the olive oil over medium heat until golden, being careful not to burn them. How to cook shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through, avoiding overcooking to prevent toughness. How to chop fresh herbs: Finely chop the cilantro or other fresh herbs to evenly distribute them over the dish.

How To Make Garlic Shrimp With Paprika

This garlic shrimp recipe is made tastier with the addition of Spanish olive oil, paprika, and flavorful spices then topped with lime wedges for serving.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbshrimp,large, peeled and deveined, weight after you peel them
6garlic cloves,sliced thinly
1tbspSpanish olive oil
red pepper flakes,crushed
pinch paprika
salt
¼cupfresh herbs like cilantro,chopped, or parsley
lime wedges,for serving

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat oil on medium heat and add the garlic and red pepper flakes.
Sauté until golden for about 2 minutes being careful not to burn.
Add shrimp and season with salt and paprika.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until shrimp is cooked through.
Do not overcook or it will become tough and chewy.
Add chopped fresh herbs and divide equally in 3 plates.

Nutrition

Calories: 159.29kcal
Fat: 6.10g
Saturated Fat: 1.03g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.95g
Carbohydrates: 4.37g
Fiber: 0.45g
Sugar: 0.23g
Protein: 21.07g
Cholesterol: 190.51mg
Sodium: 857.76mg
Calcium: 96.53mg
Potassium: 213.68mg
Iron: 0.55mg
Vitamin A: 89.80µg
Vitamin C: 4.67mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting Garlic Shrimp with Paprika

To ensure your garlic doesn't burn and turn bitter, slice it thinly rather than mincing. This allows it to cook more evenly and infuse the olive oil with a rich, aromatic flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Pre-mince the garlic: Mince the garlic cloves ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use pre-peeled shrimp: Save time by buying shrimp that are already peeled and deveined.

Prep herbs in advance: Chop the fresh herbs like cilantro beforehand and keep them in the fridge.

Measure spices early: Measure out your red pepper flakes, paprika, and salt before you start cooking.

Heat the skillet first: Preheat your skillet while you prepare other ingredients to save cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Garlic Shrimp With Paprika Recipe

shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative for seafood dishes.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.
spanish olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a versatile substitute.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a similar level of heat and spice to the dish.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor while still providing the characteristic color and mild heat.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
fresh herbs like cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can replace cilantro in many recipes.
lime wedges - Substitute with lemon wedges: Lemon wedges provide a similar acidic and citrusy flavor, making them a good alternative.

Presentation Tips for Garlic Shrimp with Paprika

Use a large white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the shrimp, paprika, and fresh herbs pop, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Arrange shrimp in a circular pattern: Place the shrimp in a neat circle around the center of the plate, ensuring each piece is evenly spaced. This creates a focal point and adds a touch of elegance.
Drizzle with garlic-infused oil: After cooking, use a spoon to drizzle the garlic and red pepper flakes infused olive oil over the shrimp. This adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro or other fresh herbs over the shrimp just before serving. This adds a burst of color and a fresh aroma.
Add lime wedges artistically: Place lime wedges strategically around the plate. This not only adds a pop of green but also offers a zesty option for diners to squeeze over their shrimp.
Finish with a dusting of paprika: Lightly dust the plate with a pinch of paprika for an extra touch of color and a hint of smokiness. This subtle detail ties the dish together beautifully.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Garlic Shrimp

Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the shrimp evenly and allowing the garlic and red pepper flakes to sauté properly.
Spatula: A tool used for stirring and flipping the shrimp to ensure even cooking without breaking them apart.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, red pepper flakes, and paprika accurately.
Garlic press: A device to crush the garlic cloves efficiently, releasing more flavor.
Cutting board: A surface for chopping the garlic and fresh herbs safely.
Chef's knife: A sharp knife for finely chopping the garlic and herbs.
Tongs: Useful for handling and turning the shrimp in the skillet to ensure they cook evenly.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the fresh herbs accurately.
Serving plates: Plates to divide and serve the cooked shrimp equally.
Citrus juicer: Optional, but helpful for squeezing lime wedges over the finished dish for added flavor.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Garlic Shrimp

To store leftover garlic shrimp, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When reheating, ensure the shrimp is heated through but not overcooked, as it can become rubbery. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave in short bursts.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked garlic shrimp. Place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
If using a container, place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the shrimp to minimize exposure to air.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen garlic shrimp will maintain its best quality for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight.
Reheat thawed shrimp gently over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid refreezing previously frozen shrimp, as it may affect the texture and quality.

How To Reheat Leftover Garlic Shrimp with Paprika

To reheat leftover garlic shrimp with paprika, start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature will help prevent the shrimp from overcooking and becoming rubbery.
Place the leftover garlic shrimp in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If the shrimp are stuck together, gently separate them to ensure even reheating.
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the shrimp and toss gently to coat. The oil will help keep the shrimp moist during the reheating process.
Cover the baking dish or baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent the shrimp from drying out. The foil will also help distribute the heat evenly.
Place the covered dish or sheet in the preheated oven and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through. The exact time will depend on the size of the shrimp and the amount being reheated.
Alternatively, you can reheat the garlic shrimp in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the shrimp and cook, stirring gently, until heated through. This method is quicker but requires more attention to prevent overcooking.
If you have any leftover sauce or juices from the original dish, add a spoonful or two to the baking dish or skillet to help keep the shrimp moist and flavorful.
Once the garlic shrimp are heated through, remove them from the oven or stovetop and let them rest for a minute or two before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the shrimp to cool slightly.
Garnish the reheated garlic shrimp with paprika with fresh herbs like cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy kick.

Interesting Trivia About Garlic Shrimp with Paprika

A random fact about this garlic shrimp with paprika recipe is that paprika not only adds a vibrant color but also provides a mild, sweet flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Budget-Friendly: Making Garlic Shrimp at Home

This garlic shrimp with paprika recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as shrimp, garlic, and paprika, are relatively affordable and easy to find. The use of fresh herbs like cilantro and lime wedges adds a burst of flavor without significantly increasing the cost. For a household of 4 people, the approximate cost would be around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Garlic Shrimp Recipe Healthy?

This garlic shrimp with paprika recipe is relatively healthy, as it incorporates several nutritious ingredients:

Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats
Fresh herbs like cilantro provide additional vitamins and minerals

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the dish even healthier:

The recipe lacks vegetables, which are crucial for a balanced meal
Depending on the amount of salt used, the dish may have a high sodium content
The cooking method (sautéing) may not be the healthiest option

To elevate the nutritional value of this garlic shrimp recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to increase the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content
Use a minimal amount of salt and focus on enhancing the flavor with herbs, spices, and lemon or lime juice
Opt for a healthier cooking method, such as grilling or baking the shrimp, to reduce the amount of added oil
Serve the shrimp alongside a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice to add complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Include a side salad with leafy greens and a light, homemade vinaigrette to boost the overall nutrient density of the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Garlic Shrimp Dish

This garlic shrimp with paprika recipe is a delightful, quick dish that balances robust flavors with simplicity. The Spanish olive oil and garlic create a fragrant base, while the red pepper flakes add a subtle heat. The paprika enhances the shrimp's natural sweetness, and the fresh herbs provide a refreshing finish. Lime wedges offer a zesty contrast, elevating the overall taste. Be cautious with cooking time to avoid tough shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant appetizer.

Enhance Your Garlic Shrimp With Paprika Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Imagine the crisp, smoky flavor of grilled asparagus paired with a hint of lemon zest. This side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, garlicky shrimp, making every bite a delightful experience.

Creamy Avocado and Tomato Salad: A creamy avocado and tomato salad brings a burst of color and a creamy texture that complements the shrimp perfectly. The fresh herbs and lime wedges in the main dish will harmonize beautifully with this vibrant salad.

Coconut Rice: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with coconut rice. The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of the coconut will balance the spiciness of the red pepper flakes and the earthiness of the paprika in the shrimp.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon: Add a touch of sweetness to your meal with roasted sweet potatoes drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. This side dish offers a warm, comforting flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory shrimp.

Mango Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a zesty mango salsa. The juicy mango, combined with red onions and a splash of lime juice, creates a refreshing and tangy side that complements the garlic shrimp's bold flavors.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Garlic Shrimp

Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp: For a zesty twist, try this dish that combines the tang of lemons with the heat of red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Herb Butter Shrimp: Indulge in the rich flavors of butter and fresh herbs like parsley and thyme. This recipe is a luxurious treat for any seafood lover.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos: Transform your shrimp into a vibrant taco filling with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of spice. Serve with avocado and salsa for a complete meal.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: A classic Italian-American dish, this recipe features succulent shrimp in a garlic and butter sauce, served over a bed of pasta or with crusty bread.

Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp: Fire up the grill for this smoky, spicy, and tangy shrimp recipe. The combination of chili powder and lime juice makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Garlic Shrimp with Paprika

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Transform your next gathering with these delightful stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out large mushroom caps and fill them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown. The creamy filling combined with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms creates a perfect bite-sized treat that will leave your guests craving more.

Bruschetta: Bring a taste of Italy to your table with this classic bruschetta. Toast slices of baguette until crispy, then top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of fresh ingredients and the crunch of the bread makes for a refreshing and satisfying appetizer that pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent treat that features a warm, gooey center of melted chocolate. This dessert is perfect for those who love rich and indulgent flavors. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance. For an extra twist, you can infuse the chocolate with a hint of espresso or orange zest to elevate the flavor profile.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Lemon Meringue Pie is a classic dessert that combines a tangy lemon custard with a light and fluffy meringue topping. The contrast between the tart lemon and the sweet meringue creates a delightful balance of flavors. The crust is typically made from graham crackers or shortbread, adding a crunchy texture to each bite. Garnish with a few lemon zest curls for a visually appealing finish. This dessert is perfect for a refreshing end to a meal, especially during warmer months.

Why trust this Garlic Shrimp With Paprika Recipe:

This recipe for garlic shrimp with paprika is a must-try for seafood lovers. The combination of fresh herbs and lime wedges adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the shrimp. Using Spanish olive oil ensures a rich and authentic taste. The instructions are straightforward, making it easy for both novice and experienced cooks to follow. Trust this recipe for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal that will impress your family and friends.

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FAQ:

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked through?

The shrimp is cooked through when it turns pink and opaque. It usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook it, or it will become tough and chewy.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

What kind of fresh herbs can I use?

You can use any fresh herbs you like, but cilantro works really well with this recipe. Parsley or basil would also be great alternatives.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat to the dish. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more flakes. If you want it milder, you can reduce the amount or omit them altogether.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of Spanish olive oil?

Yes, you can use any olive oil you have on hand. If you don't have olive oil, you can substitute it with another cooking oil like vegetable or canola oil, but the flavor might be slightly different.