| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 261 | 10g | 2g | 4g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 0g | 0g | 35g | 1.6g |
I have a soft spot in my heart for seafood dishes, and the Paprika Garlic Shrimp is a fine testament to that affinity. This vibrant and flavorful recipe is more than a meal; it is a feast for the senses. Every mouthful is a celebration of the beautiful, bold tastes combined with health-enriching elements. In a world where health and taste often seem at odds, this dish brings them together in the most delectable way.
Savoring the Seafood and Spices
As a coastal Californian, I had the privilege of growing up surrounded by an array of delectable seafood. The Paprika Garlic Shrimp recipe highlights the natural, subtle sweetness of shrimp, elevated by the smoky flavor of paprika and the punchy garlic undertones. Such a delightful blend is reminiscent of the abundant seafood bounties available in the Golden State. The tangy fresh lemon juice adds a citrusy kick, striking a lovely balance with the more robust elements of the dish. And the best part of all is, these bold flavors come with impressive health benefits too!
Surprising Health Benefits
Shrimp, apart from being exceptionally delicious, are also low in calories and rich in protein. They are a wonderful source of selenium—an antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation. They are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin, a compound linked to lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain types of cancer. Moreover, the garlic in this dish isn’t just a flavor-enhancer. It is known to have immune-boosting properties, along with a wealth of other health benefits. Combine that with the heart-healthy olive oil, and you have a dish that’s as nourishing as it is tasty!
This recipe is a great companion to a simple side of Quinoa with Vegetable Sauté. The earthy texture and mild flavors of the quinoa create the perfect backdrop for the bold shrimp. Or, pair it with a rustic, hearty lentil soup, and you’ll have a wholesome, well-rounded meal that delights your taste buds and nourishes your body.
No matter how you serve it, the Paprika Garlic Shrimp remains a testament to the magic of simple, fresh ingredients combined with love and care. And that’s why I love this recipe.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Method
Step One
Start by preheating a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil to the heated skillet.
Step Two
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until it is fragrant. This process should last about a minute.
Step Three
Add the large shrimp to the skillet and season liberally with the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.
Step Four
Fry the shrimp, stirring frequently, until it is fully cooked and has turned a nice pink color. This typically takes about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step Five
Pour in the fresh lemon juice and half of the chopped fresh parsley. Stir to incorporate and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
Step Six
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the remainder of the parsley on top of the shrimp before serving.
Step Seven
Serve the Paprika Garlic Shrimp with lemon wedges on the side. This dish is best served hot and can be enjoyed with rice, pasta or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your delicious Paprika Garlic Shrimp!
