As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling shrimp filled the air, instantly transporting me to coastal markets brimming with fresh ingredients. My Zesty Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp brings that vibrancy straight to your dinner table! This dish features tender shrimp embraced by a bright chimichurri sauce, crafted with aromatic herbs and a touch of heat. Not only is it incredibly quick to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight delight, but it also delivers a healthy dose of flavor that will impress your loved ones during gatherings. Ready to elevate your homemade meals with this easy, mouthwatering recipe? Let’s dive into the bliss of cooking together! Why is this shrimp recipe a must-try? Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Vibrant Flavors: The bright chimichurri sauce is a flavor explosion, combining fresh herbs and a hint of spice that elevates the shrimp to new heights. Healthy Delight: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this dish offers a guilt-free dining experience at around 392 calories per serving. Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! This recipe works equally well with scallops or grilled veggies, making it perfect for seafood lovers and vegetarians alike. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this dish that’s both beautiful and delicious, ideal for any occasion. Pair it with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal! Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Ingredients Experience the vibrant flavors with these essential ingredients! For the Chimichurri Sauce Parsley – Fresh herb providing brightness; use flat-leaf parsley for a more intense flavor. Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is recommended over jarred for optimal taste. Fresno Pepper – Introduces a subtle heat; jalapeño can be used as a substitute for a different spice level. Oregano – Aromatic herb that complements the other flavors; dried oregano is fine. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Base of the chimichurri, imparting richness; choose high-quality for better flavor. Red Wine Vinegar – Offers acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar can substitute if needed. Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste. For the Shrimp Jumbo Shrimp – The main protein source, providing a meaty texture; ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined. Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance acidity; can replace with agave nectar. Smoked Paprika – Provides a warm, smoky flavor; regular paprika may be used, but the smoke adds depth. Enjoy crafting these Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp, bursting with flavors and a memorable dining experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Start by finely chopping the flat-leaf parsley, fresh garlic, and Fresno pepper on a cutting board. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped ingredients with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Then, drizzle in high-quality extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Stir well to combine and let the chimichurri sit at room temperature for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp In a separate mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp with a splash of olive oil, minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the shrimp are evenly coated in the marinade for about 5 minutes. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 minutes, letting the shrimp absorb the vibrant flavors of the marinade. Step 3: Heat the Skillet While the shrimp are marinating, place a skillet or grill pan over high heat. Allow the pan to become hot enough that a drop of water sizzles upon contact. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect sear on the shrimp, so wait for about 3-4 minutes until it reaches that desired temperature. Step 4: Cook the Shrimp Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they do not overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn opaque and slightly charred. Then, flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked and juicy. The shrimp should be firm to the touch and have a beautiful golden sear. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Transfer the perfectly pan-seared chimichurri shrimp to a serving dish. Generously spoon the chimichurri sauce over the top, allowing it to cascade over the shrimp. Consider serving additional sauce on the side for dipping. This lively dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, in tacos, or over a bed of rice for a delightful meal. What to Serve with Zesty Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp? Imagine the symphony of flavors on your plate as you complement your brightly flavored shrimp with just the right sides! Creamy Avocado Salad: A cool, buttery salad adds a refreshing contrast with creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and zesty lime dressing. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with bright lime and fresh cilantro makes for an excellent base, soaking up the vibrant chimichurri sauce. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and grilled to perfection brings a delightful char flavor and a touch of crispness. Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping in chimichurri sauce—it’s a wonderfully indulgent way to savor every last bit! Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa, cooked with herbs and spices, provides a hearty yet healthy complement that enhances the shrimp’s textures and flavors. Chilled White Wine Spritzer: A light and refreshing spritzer with crisp white wine, soda, and a twist of lime perfectly balances the bold shrimp dish. These pairings elevate your Zesty Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp to new heights, ensuring an unforgettable meal experience! Make Ahead Options These Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chimichurri sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. Simply finely chop the parsley, garlic, and Fresno pepper, mix with the other ingredients, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp can also be marinated for up to 2 hours before cooking; just coat them with the marinade and refrigerate until you’re ready to sear. This prep not only saves time on busy weeknights but also ensures your dish is just as delicious when it comes time to serve. When ready to cook, simply heat a skillet and follow the final cooking steps for juicy, flavorful results! Storage Tips for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Fridge: Place any leftover cooked shrimp in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This way, they retain their delicious flavor and texture. Chimichurri Sauce: The chimichurri can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier! Freezer: If you have excess cooked shrimp, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. This prevents them from sticking together. Reheating: To enjoy your shrimp again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, ensuring they don’t overcook and remain juicy. Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Variations Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists for a customized experience that tantalizes your taste buds! Seafood Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops, sea bass, or halibut for a different seafood experience. Each option brings its unique flavor profile, enhancing your dish. Vegetarian Delight: Use chimichurri as a marinade for grilled vegetables or tofu, providing a fresh, zesty flavor to your plant-based meal. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or extra Fresno pepper for an added heat boost. The spice elevates the dish while keeping its vibrant essence. Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice into the chimichurri sauce for an extra bright and zesty layer of flavor; it complements the shrimp beautifully. Herb Fusion: Mix in other herbs like cilantro or basil for a unique twist on the chimichurri. This adds complexity and depth, making every bite exciting and fresh. Creamy Add-On: Drizzle a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a creamy contrast to the tangy chimichurri. This adds a rich texture that rounds out the flavor. A Twist on Sweetness: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for different types of sweetness. These alternatives can enhance the flavor depending on your preference. Grilled Perfection: If you love smoky flavors, try grilling the shrimp instead of pan-searing them. This adds an extra layer of char to the dish, making it even more delightful. Feeling inspired? You might also enjoy my Cajun Shrimp Boil for another flavorful twist or explore my Stir Fried Shrimp for a quick option that pairs perfectly with steamed rice! Expert Tips for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Hand-Chop Ingredients: To maintain a fresh texture, chop the parsley, garlic, and Fresno pepper by hand instead of using a food processor. Preheat the Pan: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp to achieve a beautiful sear and prevent them from steaming. Don’t Overcrowd: If cooking a lot of shrimp, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and that all shrimp get that lovely char. Make-Ahead Chimichurri: Prepare the chimichurri sauce a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld and develop even further, enhancing your Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp. Check Shrimp Doneness: Shrimp is perfectly cooked when it turns opaque and is just firm to the touch. Don’t overcook, or they’ll become rubbery. Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Recipe FAQs How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for fresh, jumbo shrimp that are firm to the touch and free from any discoloration or smell. If you’re choosing frozen shrimp, opt for those that are flash-frozen and ideally labeled as ‘wild-caught’ for the freshest flavor and texture. What is the best way to store leftover chimichurri shrimp? Very! Place any leftover cooked shrimp in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This helps maintain their juicy texture. Be sure to remove excess air from the container, as this can help prevent spoilage. Can I freeze cooked shrimp? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your cooked shrimp, start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—this usually takes about 1-2 hours. Afterward, transfer the shrimp into a freezer bag or airtight container, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. How can I avoid rubbery shrimp when cooking? I recommend keeping a close eye on your shrimp while cooking! They are perfectly done when they turn opaque and feel firm to the touch. Generally, cooking them for 2-3 minutes per side should do the trick. If they become rubbery, they’ve likely been overcooked, so it’s best to err on the side of undercooking at first and checking for doneness. Is this dish suitable for people with shellfish allergies? Very! If someone has a shellfish allergy, it’s best to avoid this recipe altogether, as shrimp is the main ingredient. Instead, consider using the chimichurri sauce as a marinade for grilled vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option that everyone can enjoy. How can I tell if my chimichurri sauce is ready? Absolutely! Your chimichurri sauce is ready when the colors are vibrant, and the flavors have melded together beautifully, which usually takes about one hour of sitting time at room temperature. For an extra kick, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator; the flavors will deepen and become even more vibrant! Savory Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Ready in 20 Minutes A delicious Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp recipe that combines vibrant flavors and is ready in just 20 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 392 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Chimichurri Sauce1 bunch Flat-leaf parsley Finely chopped2 cloves Garlic Minced1 medium Fresno pepper Finely chopped1 teaspoon Dried oregano1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil High-quality1/4 cup Red wine vinegarto taste Saltto taste Fresh ground pepperShrimp1 pound Jumbo shrimp Peeled and deveined1 tablespoon Honey Can replace with agave nectar1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Equipment skilletmixing bowlcutting board Method Preparation StepsFinely chop the flat-leaf parsley, fresh garlic, and Fresno pepper on a cutting board. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped ingredients with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, stir well, and let sit for at least one hour.In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.Heat a skillet over high heat until hot enough that a drop of water sizzles upon contact.Add marinated shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until fully cooked and charred.Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish, spoon chimichurri sauce over, and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 392kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 36gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 195mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg NotesFor best results, chop ingredients by hand. Preheat the pan before cooking and avoid overcrowding for perfect shrimp sear. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. 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