Best Shrimp Recipes: From Classic to Creative

Shrimp is a popular seafood choice that cooks quickly and is incredibly versatile. Here are two shrimp recipes that range from classic to creative, each offering a unique flavor profile.

1. Classic Shrimp Scampi

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Shrimp:

   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Add the white wine or chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the lemon juice and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Combine and Serve:

   • Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.

Kitchen Tools Required:

• Large skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board

Background

Shrimp scampi is an Italian-American classic that has been delighting palates since it became popular in the mid-20th century. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it a favorite for quick weeknight dinners.

2. Spicy Thai Shrimp Curry

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 lime, juiced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Curry Base:

   • In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger, and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute.

2. Add the Vegetables and Shrimp:

   • Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Add the sliced red bell pepper and snow peas, and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Season and Serve:

   • Stir in the fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over cooked jasmine rice.

Kitchen Tools Required:

• Large skillet or wok
• Knife
• Cutting board

Background

Thai cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. This shrimp curry captures that essence perfectly, offering a quick and delicious way to enjoy the bold tastes of Thailand.