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
Units
Scale
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