Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious appetizer or light meal? Look no further! This recipe for marinated cold shrimp is your answer. It's surprisingly easy to make, requires minimal cooking, and is packed with fresh, vibrant flavors that are perfect for warm weather gatherings, a casual weeknight dinner, or even an elegant party. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet stunning dish! It's one of those best recipes that's both easy and impressive.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly cleaned, peeled, and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps the marinade adhere better. This step is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, mint, jalapeño (if using), garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. This vibrant marinade is the key to the dish's success.
Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp
Add the prepared shrimp to the bowl and gently toss to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. Don't marinate for longer than 2 hours to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once marinated, the shrimp are ready to be served. You can enjoy them chilled straight from the refrigerator. This simple recipe is perfect as a standalone appetizer, or you can serve it with crackers, tortilla chips, or crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Marinated Shrimp:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh, high-quality shrimp will significantly impact the final flavor.
- Don't Over-Marinate: While longer marinating times enhance the flavor, over-marinating can make the shrimp tough.
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the spice level according to your preference. For a milder version, omit the jalapeño entirely.
- Serve Chilled: The shrimp are best served cold, allowing the flavors to meld completely.
Delicious Variations:
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange zest for a brighter citrus flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.
- Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate chopped Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. This variation is perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Around 20-25g
- Fat: Around 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Around 2-3g
This easy recipe makes a fantastic appetizer, a quick lunch, or a light and refreshing dinner. It's a healthy meal option, perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas or delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. It's one of those homemade cooking recipes that always impresses! Enjoy!