Craving a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy dinner? Look no further! This shrimp with sweet chili sauce recipe is your answer. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory, ready in under 20 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a delightful appetizer for a gathering. This recipe is a testament to how delicious and healthy meals can be, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (fresh is best!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Optional: 1 red chili, finely chopped (for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely when cooking. If you're using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If using chili, add it now and sauté for another 15 seconds.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
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Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey (or brown sugar).
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Combine & Simmer: Pour the sauce over the cooked shrimp in the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the shrimp evenly.
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Garnish & Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately. This dish is fantastic served with steamed rice, noodles, or even a simple side salad.
Tips for the Best Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce:
- Don't overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Cook just until they are pink and opaque.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce or omit the chili pepper altogether. Conversely, add more chili for extra heat!
- Fresh ingredients make a difference: Using fresh ginger and garlic will significantly enhance the flavor of this dish.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious shrimp dish with your favorite sides for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra kick.
- Make it a stir-fry: Add more vegetables and noodles for a complete stir-fry experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This delicious and easy shrimp with sweet chili sauce recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal. It’s a fantastic example of how quick, healthy, and flavorful homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!