The sizzling sound of shrimp hitting a hot pan instantly transports me to warmer days filled with sun-soaked dinners and laughter. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp, a vibrant dish that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat. Combining fresh, herby chimichurri sauce with perfectly seared shrimp, this meal is not only gluten-free but also quick to whip up—making it ideal for both relaxed weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. Imagine impressing your family and friends with a dish that’s bursting with zest while also being effortlessly simple. Are you ready to elevate your seafood game and make your taste buds dance? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why is This Shrimp Recipe a Must-Try?
Quick: This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Fresh Ingredients: Using vibrant, fresh herbs like parsley and lively garlic, you’ll create a chimichurri that brightens any meal with its bold flavors.
Versatile: While this version focuses on shrimp, feel free to swap in scallops or fish, or even mix it up with grilled veggies for a vegetarian delight!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive occasion, this dish is sure to impress, guaranteeing compliments at the table.
Make sure to check out my other seafood recipes to keep your dinners exciting and fresh!
Chimichurri Shrimp Ingredients
• Create a delightful seafood dish with these essential ingredients!
For the Chimichurri Sauce
- Parsley – Freshness and vibrancy in the sauce; opt for flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor.
- Garlic – Provides a pungent, aromatic flavor; use fresh garlic, not pre-minced.
- Fresno Pepper – Adds a mild heat; can substitute with jalapeño or omit for less spice.
- Oregano – Herbaceous depth to the chimichurri; dried or fresh can be used.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Richness and smooth texture; enhances flavor—choose high-quality oil.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Adds acidity and tangy flavor; substitute with lemon juice if needed.
- Salt and Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; use freshly ground pepper for a more intense taste.
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp (Jumbo, peeled and deveined) – Main protein providing texture; use fresh or thawed shrimp for optimal quality.
- Honey – Balances flavors with sweetness; substitute with agave syrup for a vegan option.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds mild smokiness; can replace with regular paprika if unavailable.
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a scrumptious Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp that is sure to become a family favorite!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Chimichurri Sauce
Begin by finely chopping fresh parsley, garlic, and Fresno pepper by hand. In a medium bowl, mix these ingredients with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in high-quality extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar; stir well to combine. Let the chimichurri sauce sit at room temperature for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Marinate Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, add your peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle in minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes while the flavors soak in.
Step 3: Cook Shrimp
Heat a grill pan over high heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking. Arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the pan, ensuring they’re not crowded. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and develop a slightly charred exterior, creating a beautiful caramelization.
Step 4: Serve
Once cooked to perfection, transfer the seared shrimp to a serving dish. Generously drizzle the vibrant chimichurri sauce over the shrimp, tossing them gently to coat. For an elegant touch, reserve any extra chimichurri sauce in a small bowl on the side for dipping, ensuring everyone can enjoy more of that fresh flavor.
Storage Tips for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Chimichurri Sauce: Keep chimichurri sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This allows the flavors to develop further!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent drying out. Enjoy the delicious shrimp, packed with flavor from the chimichurri!
Make Ahead Options
These Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp are fantastic for meal prep! You can make the chimichurri sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply prepare it as directed, allowing the flavors to meld overnight in the refrigerator. Additionally, the marinated shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For the best quality, use fresh shrimp and ensure they are coated evenly in the marinade. When you’re ready to serve, just heat a grill pan, sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through, drizzle with the chimichurri, and enjoy a flavorful dish with minimal hassle!
Chimichurri Shrimp Variations You’ll Love
Feel free to explore your creativity and personalize your dish with these exciting variations!
-
Seafood Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops or firm white fish like halibut for a delightful twist.
Try this with grilled sea bass to discover a new flavor profile that fuses beautifully with the chimichurri. -
Vegetarian Delight: Serve chimichurri over grilled vegetables or triangular slices of grilled tofu.
It enhances the dish with a vibrant burst of flavor while keeping it plant-based and healthy. -
Herbal Infusion: Add mint or cilantro to the chimichurri for an herbal twist.
This unexpected combination brightens the sauce while offering an aromatic layer to your dish. -
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the chimichurri.
Your taste buds will thank you for the additional warmth that pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp. -
Citrus Zest: Incorporate fresh lime or lemon juice into the chimichurri for a zesty flavor boost.
This adds a refreshing tang that brightens the entire dish, making it even more invigorating. -
Smoky Flavor: Swap regular paprika for chipotle powder for a smokier, spicier profile.
The unique taste will elevate your shrimp dish and create an exciting combination of flavors. -
Nutty Finish: Top your shrimp with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for added crunch.
This texture contrast enhances your dish and brings a delightful nutty flavor into play. -
Easy Dip Option: Use leftover chimichurri as a dip for crusty bread or fresh veggies.
It’s a perfect way to use up any extra sauce while providing a tasty appetizer or side!
These delicious suggestions are sure to inspire you, so dive in and make this dish your own! For more inspiration, try my Grilled Vegetables with Herb Sauce or explore the flavors in my Spicy Shrimp Tacos. Happy cooking!
Expert Tips for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp
• Hand-Chop Ingredients: Don’t use a food processor for the chimichurri; hand-chopping ensures the perfect texture, enhancing the freshness of your dish.
• Preheat the Pan: Ensure your grill pan is very hot before adding shrimp. A hot pan gives the shrimp a beautiful sear and prevents them from steaming.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary, leaving space between each piece. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking and steaming rather than searing.
• Let Chimichurri Marinate: Allow your chimichurri sauce to sit at room temperature for at least an hour. This step develops the full flavor profile and makes the dish irresistible!
• Store Wisely: If you have leftover shrimp or chimichurri, store them separately. The shrimp can be kept in an airtight container for up to 2 days, while chimichurri lasts about a week in the fridge.
These expert tips will help you create the best pan seared chimichurri shrimp that your family will love!
What to Serve with Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp
Pairing delicious sides with your shrimp creates a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for an unforgettable meal.
- Creamy Risotto: Its rich creaminess beautifully contrasts with the zesty chimichurri, creating a luxurious mouthfeel that enhances every bite.
- Garlic Bread: A crusty, warm addition, it soaks up the vibrant chimichurri sauce, making each taste delightful and satisfying.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, these noodles provide a healthy base, allowing the shrimp and chimichurri to shine in this dish.
- Grilled Asparagus: With its earthy crunch, roasted asparagus adds a pop of color and flavor balance, complementing the dish beautifully.
- Simple Green Salad: A mix of crisp greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate for every scrumptious bite.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: This refreshing beverage cleanses the palate and enhances the flavorful experience of the meal, making it delightful and invigorating.
- Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, this creamy dessert is rich yet light, making it a perfect contrast to the herbaceous flavors of the shrimp dish.
With these pairing suggestions, you’re set to create a memorable dining experience that speaks to your love of home cooking.
Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my shrimp is fresh?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp should have a mild, briny smell and a firm texture. Look for shrimp that have a glossy appearance and no dark spots or discoloration. If you’re buying frozen shrimp, ensure they are well-packaged without any ice crystals, which can indicate thawing and refreezing.
How should I store leftover cooked shrimp?
Very simply, store your leftover Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This preserves their freshness and flavor, allowing you to enjoy a quick meal later. If you have leftover chimichurri sauce, keep it separate in another airtight container, where it will last for about 1 week.
Can I freeze the shrimp?
Of course! To freeze your cooked shrimp, first, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, and place the sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until the shrimp are firm. Then, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating!
What’s the best way to reheat leftover shrimp?
To maintain the juiciness of your shrimp, reheat them gently. Place the shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil. Heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. This method keeps the shrimp tender, ensuring a delicious meal even after storing!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you have allergies, double-check that the shrimp and any sauces or condiments used are free from your specific allergens. For a vegan alternative, try using grilled tofu or vegetables and substitute honey with agave syrup in the chimichurri sauce.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for the chimichurri?
While fresh herbs provide unparalleled flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. For dried oregano, use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh, remembering that dried herbs are more potent. Still, I recommend giving fresh parsley a try for that vibrant, bright flavor—it’s worth it!
Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp: A Flavor-Packed Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely chop parsley, garlic, and Fresno pepper. In a medium bowl, mix with oregano, salt, and pepper. Add olive oil and vinegar; stir well. Let sit for at least one hour.
- In a bowl, add shrimp. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
- Heat grill pan over high heat. Arrange marinated shrimp in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque and slightly charred.
- Transfer shrimp to serving dish. Drizzle with chimichurri sauce and toss gently. Reserve extra sauce for dipping.