Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that transports you to the sunny shores of the Yucatan Peninsula? Look no further! This Yucatan Shrimp recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Prepare to be amazed by the explosion of citrusy, spicy, and savory goodness in every bite. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily create at home. It's one of the best recipes for showcasing the fresh flavors of shrimp, and it's surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
-
Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better when you cook them. Season generously with salt and pepper.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red bell pepper, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender.
-
Build the Flavor: Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma. This step is key for developing a rich and complex flavor profile.
-
Simmer in Citrus: Pour in the orange juice and lime juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
-
Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll become tough.
-
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve the Yucatan shrimp immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the top. This dish is fantastic served with rice, tortillas, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Best Yucatan Shrimp:
-
Use fresh shrimp: The quality of your shrimp will significantly impact the final flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp whenever possible.
-
Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of shrimp, cook them in batches to ensure they brown properly and cook evenly.
-
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add a pinch of chipotle powder.
-
Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious dish with some fluffy rice, warm tortillas, and a side of your favorite salsa for a satisfying and complete meal.
Variations:
-
Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to the skillet along with the bell pepper.
-
Use different citrus: Experiment with other citrus fruits like grapefruit or lemon juice instead of, or in addition to, orange and lime juice.
-
Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier, richer dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Yucatan Shrimp recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that are both healthy and delicious. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for those busy weeknights, and showcases the ease of homemade cooking. Enjoy this taste of sunshine!