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Tender shrimp cooked in a spicy, garlicky sauce that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

Spicy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Tender shrimp cooked in a spicy, garlicky sauce that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Ideal for a fast, spicy seafood dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp:
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon chili paste or hot sauce adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar optional, for balance
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice optional
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for extra heat
For Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Lemon wedges optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife for chopping garlic and chili

Method
 

Prepare the Shrimp:
  1. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry with paper towels. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Shrimp:
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
  2. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
  3. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Spicy Garlic Sauce:
  1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter and let it melt.
  2. Once melted, add 6 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
  3. Add 1 tablespoon chili paste or hot sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness).
  4. Stir well to combine, letting the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes. You can add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat.
  5. Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice for a fresh, tangy finish (optional).
Combine Shrimp with Sauce:
  1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them in the spicy garlic sauce, ensuring they’re well coated.
  2. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through and fully covered with the sauce.
  3. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
  • Spicy: Adjust the heat level by using more or less chili paste or hot sauce.
  • Variation: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.