Picture this: you’re about to whip up a dish that’s a vibrant explosion of flavors, a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and savory goodness—all in under 30 minutes!
I love creating vibrant dishes like my Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp. Succulent shrimp are transformed into a spicy and aromatic delight with olive oil, garlic, and thinly sliced red bell pepper.
A dash of lemon juice enhances the flavor, while crushed red pepper flakes add a thrilling kick.
Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp Recipe Ingredients
- Shrimp: High-protein, low-calorie seafood, rich in selenium and iodine.
- Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhances flavor, contains antioxidants.
- Garlic: Immune-boosting properties, aromatic flavor, low in calories.
- Red Bell Pepper: Rich in vitamin C, adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adds heat and spice, boosts metabolism.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh, tangy, high in vitamin C, elevates brightness.
- Parsley: Fresh herb, rich in antioxidants, adds vibrant green color.
Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make this Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp Recipe
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the red bell pepper slices to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
6. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Drizzle the lemon juice over the cooked shrimp and stir well to combine.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat.
9. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp.
10. Serve immediately, enjoying the vibrant flavors and the spicy kick from the red pepper.
Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Large skillet
2. Cutting board
3. Chef’s knife
4. Garlic press or mincer
5. Measuring spoons
6. Stirring spoon or spatula
7. Citrus juicer (optional)
8. Serving plate or bowl
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best texture.
- What can I substitute for red bell pepper? You can use yellow or orange bell peppers for a similar sweetness, or even green bell pepper for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Is there a way to make this dish less spicy? Absolutely, simply reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste. You can also omit them entirely if you prefer no heat.
- Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Yes, feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli for added texture and flavor.
- How should I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- What can I serve with Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp? This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad to balance the spice.
- Is there a way to add more flavor to the dish? For extra depth, try adding a splash of white wine or a dash of soy sauce during cooking.
Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- For olive oil: Substitute with avocado oil or sunflower oil.
- For red bell pepper: Use yellow or orange bell pepper for a milder flavor.
- For crushed red pepper flakes: Substitute with cayenne pepper or paprika for a different heat level.
- For lemon juice: Use lime juice for a slightly different citrus tang.
- For fresh parsley: Substitute with fresh cilantro or basil for a different herbal note.
Pro Tips
1. Marinate the Shrimp: For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in the olive oil, garlic, and a bit of lemon juice for about 20 minutes before cooking. This will infuse more flavor into the shrimp.
2. Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder dish, start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more to taste.
3. Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Roll the lemon on the counter before juicing to release more juice.
4. Timing is Key: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They only need 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and lose their tenderness.
5. Add Depth with White Wine: For an additional layer of flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the bell pepper. Let it reduce slightly before adding the shrimp. This can add complexity to the dish.
Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp Recipe
My favorite Spicy Red Pepper Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Large skillet
2. Cutting board
3. Chef’s knife
4. Garlic press or mincer
5. Measuring spoons
6. Stirring spoon or spatula
7. Citrus juicer (optional)
8. Serving plate or bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the red bell pepper slices to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
6. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Drizzle the lemon juice over the cooked shrimp and stir well to combine.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat.
9. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp.
10. Serve immediately, enjoying the vibrant flavors and the spicy kick from the red pepper.