Description
This pan seared chimichurri shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp cooked quickly in a skillet and topped with a vibrant, tangy chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and red wine vinegar. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer, it’s ready in just 16 minutes and pairs wonderfully with rice, salads, or tortillas.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chimichurri Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine finely chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir the mixture well to blend all flavors and set it aside to let the sauce develop its vibrant taste.
- Season Shrimp: Pat the large peeled and deveined shrimp dry using paper towels to ensure they sear properly. Season them evenly with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper on all sides.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink, opaque, and slightly caramelized, indicating they are cooked through.
- Combine with Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and immediately drizzle the cooked shrimp with the prepared chimichurri sauce. Toss gently or spoon the sauce over each shrimp to coat them evenly.
- Serve: Serve the chimichurri shrimp hot. Accompany with extra chimichurri sauce on the side. This dish pairs beautifully over steamed rice, fresh salads, or wrapped in warm tortillas for a versatile meal option.
Notes
- For milder flavor, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes in the chimichurri sauce.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs will alter the taste significantly.
- Ensure shrimp are fully thawed if using frozen, and pat them dry to achieve a good sear.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for more servings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Argentinian
