Are you staring at a container of leftover boiled shrimp, wondering what to do with it? Don't let those succulent morsels go to waste! This recipe transforms simple boiled shrimp into a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. It's one of those easy recipes that proves homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes you can create with simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (leftover boiled shrimp is perfect!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Cooked rice or your favorite grain, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped red onion, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
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Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), along with the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Incorporate Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Gently stir to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become rubbery.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve the shrimp mixture hot over cooked rice or your favorite grain. Garnish with a lime wedge for a fresh, zesty touch. This makes a wonderful quick dinner idea, ready in under 15 minutes!
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough. Just heat it through gently once you add it to the sauce.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach to this recipe.
Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Shrimp: Replace the chili powder and cumin with lemon zest and juice for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
- Creamy Shrimp: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier sauce.
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe is a great example of healthy meals that are both delicious and easy to make. It’s perfect for using up leftover boiled shrimp and creating a satisfying and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Enjoy!