If you’re looking to elevate your seafood game to a whole new level of deliciousness, look no further than Salt and Pepper Shrimp. This delightful dish combines crispy shrimp with a perfect balance of saltiness and a hint of spice—it’s like a party in your mouth with every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Explosion: Combines savory, spicy, and subtle hints of garlic for a delightful taste.
- Versatile Dish: Pairs well with rice, noodles, or can even be a great potluck appetizer.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Sure to impress family and friends with its gourmet look and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create an impressively flavorful dish. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect crunch and savory goodness of Salt and Pepper Shrimp.
- 1 pound large shrimp: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best texture and taste.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch: Ensures a crispy coating when fried, locking in all the delicious flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds the iconic heat, making the taste pleasantly spicy.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for the classic “salt and pepper” flavor balance.
- 6 cloves garlic: Offers aromatic depth and a nutty undertone once sautéed.
- 2 tablespoons canola oil: Choose an oil with a high smoke point to perfectly fry the shrimp.
- 2 green onions: Brings mild oniony sweetness and vibrant color.
- Oil for frying: Ensure there’s enough to submerge the shrimp for that perfect fry.
Variations
One of the best things about Salt and Pepper Shrimp is how easily you can adapt it! Whether it’s a matter of dietary preferences or simply a case of what’s in your pantry, feel free to get creative.
- Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes or Szechuan peppercorns for extra heat.
- Make it Sweeter: A teaspoon of honey in the garlic sauté can add a fun twist.
- Go Gluten-Free: Swap cornstarch with rice flour for a gluten-free version with the same crispy outcome.
How to Make Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp, but leave those charming tails on. This not only makes them easier to handle while eating but also looks aesthetically pleasing. Remember, patting them dry is key to ensuring the cornstarch sticks properly and results in that irresistible crispness.
Step 2: Coating and Frying
Toss the shrimp in cornstarch until they’re well-coated. Heat about half an inch of oil in your skillet until it reaches a sizzling 375 degrees F. Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each for about 3-5 minutes until they’re a beautiful golden brown. Drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
Step 3: Flavor Infusion
In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Stir it with salt and pepper until the aroma is irresistible. Stir in the green onions and pour this vibrant mixture over the crispy shrimp. Toss everything gently to coat every piece with flavorful goodness.
Pro Tips for Making Salt and Pepper Shrimp
- Perfect Fry Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 375°F for a perfectly crispy result.
- Quick Prep: Prepare all your ingredients before frying to ensure the shrimp remain crispy once cooked.
- Garlic Timing: Cook garlic just until fragrant, as it burns quickly and can turn bitter.
- Ingredient Selection: Fresh ingredients, especially shrimp, make a noticeable difference in this dish’s taste.
How to Serve Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Garnishes
To add an extra pop of color, garnish your Salt and Pepper Shrimp with some finely chopped cilantro or a few thinly sliced chilies for those who love extra heat. A squeeze of fresh lime can also brighten up the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This shrimp dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which absorbs all those glorious juices. Another great option is a refreshing cucumber salad—its crispness cuts through the richness of the shrimp wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Salt and Pepper Shrimp on a large platter and layer over a bed of shredded lettuce or cabbage to add some crunch. Using a bamboo skewer for each shrimp not only makes them easier to eat but also adds a fun, whimsical touch to your presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the shrimp might lose some crispiness over time, but will still be deliciously flavorful.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp. Arrange them on a baking sheet, so they’re not touching, and freeze them until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to a month this way.
Reheating
To reheat, you can use the oven to revive some of the shrimp’s crispiness. Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen shrimp for Salt and Pepper Shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can work well. Just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry to prevent the cornstarch from getting gummy.
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What if I don’t have cornstarch? Can I use something else?
If cornstarch is unavailable, you can substitute it with potato starch or even flour, although the texture might vary slightly.
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How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?
The shrimp will turn a pink color and curl into a ‘C’ shape. Overcooking will make them tough, so watch them closely.
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Can this recipe be made without deep frying?
Yes, you can pan-fry the shrimp with a little less oil, which may not be as crispy but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to impress with minimal effort, Salt and Pepper Shrimp is your go-to dish. Its simplicity and flavors truly make it a standout. Gather your loved ones, serve this delightful meal, and watch it become a beloved staple in your home. Enjoy!
Print
Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Description
This Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe features crispy, golden-brown shrimp seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and garlic, then sautéed with fresh green onions for an aromatic and flavorful dish. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, it combines tender shrimp with a smoky, savory crust and a hint of green freshness.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Oil for frying (enough to fill about 1/2 inch in a deep pot)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they fry up crispy.
- Toss in Cornstarch: Place the shrimp in a bowl and toss thoroughly with 1/4 cup of cornstarch until evenly coated, which helps create a crispy exterior.
- Heat the Oil: Fill a large pot with about 1/2 inch of oil and heat it to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature, ensuring crispy results.
- Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the coated shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Garlic and Green Onions: In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook just until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in sliced green onions, and pour the garlic mixture over the fried shrimp. Toss gently to coat evenly and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of black pepper for a milder or spicier flavor based on preference.
- Ensure the frying oil is hot enough before adding shrimp to prevent sogginess.
- Can be served with a squeeze of lemon or a dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- For extra crunch, double coat the shrimp with cornstarch before frying.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately for maximum crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pound (113 grams)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
