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Quick Blackened Shrimp with Lime and Cilantro Recipe


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3.9 from 13 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Quick Blackened Shrimp recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, juicy shrimp with a smoky, slightly sweet, and spicy crust. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a flavorful and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick protein-packed meal.


Ingredients

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 ½ lbs large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
  • 3 tsps chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 Tbsps raw honey or pure maple syrup
  • Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste

Cooking Oil and Garnish

  • 2 Tbsps avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • Fresh lime wedges
  • Fresh chopped cilantro


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat your shrimp dry thoroughly using a paper towel and place them in a bowl. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures even cooking.
  2. Season and Marinate: Sprinkle all the spices—smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper—over the shrimp. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup and stir well to coat every shrimp evenly. Let the shrimp sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Heat the Oil: Heat half of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This creates the perfect environment to blacken the shrimp while keeping them tender.
  4. Cook in Batches: Add the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding the pan, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp curl up and turn opaque with a lightly crisp, blackened exterior. Remove the cooked shrimp and repeat with the second batch, adding the remaining oil to the pan before cooking.
  5. Serve: Arrange the blackened shrimp on a serving plate and garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro for a bright and refreshing finish.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure the shrimp blacken properly and get a nice crust.
  • Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust the chili powder amount to control the heat intensity.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
  • If you prefer, substitute the honey with pure maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American