Shrimp – a seafood lover’s delight! But what if you’re new to cooking or short on time? Fear not, dear readers! With these 20 simple and easy shrimp recipes, you’ll be whipping up delicious dishes in no time. Whether you like them garlicky, saucy, spicy, or just plain flavorful, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of succulent, juicy, and mouth-watering shrimp dishes that are perfect for beginners.
From classic scampi pasta to grilled skewers with a zesty twist, our recipes will guide you through the process of cooking shrimp with ease. And the best part? Most of these recipes require minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of shrimp cookery and discover some new favorites!
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon
A classic seafood dish gets a bright twist with the addition of lemon, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic shrimp recipe perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a variety of colorful vegetables and savory seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and fully cooked.
3. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Honey Garlic Shrimp Skillet
This sweet and savory shrimp skillet is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and soy sauce.
5. Pour the honey-soy mixture over the shrimp and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are coated in the glaze.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying shrimp scampi pasta dish. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp (30ml) fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Lime Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your summer cooking with this refreshing twist on classic grilled shrimp, infused with the sweetness of coconut and the brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together coconut, lime juice, garlic, and salt.
3. Add the shrimp to the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Brush olive oil on the grates of the grill.
5. Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Rice
This bold and flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp with spicy Cajun seasonings, served atop a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve the shrimp atop a bed of cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Shrimp Fajitas
A flavorful and quick weeknight dinner, this One-Pan Shrimp Fajitas recipe is a twist on the classic Tex-Mex dish. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll be enjoying succulent shrimp and sautéed vegetables in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the bell peppers and onions to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
7. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble the fajitas by placing some of the shrimp and vegetable mixture onto each tortilla.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a classic Italian-inspired meal that’s sure to please. With succulent shrimp, tender fettuccine noodles, and a decadent sauce, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked fettuccine noodles to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
8. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Parmesan Garlic Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this easy and impressive recipe for baked parmesan garlic shrimp. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with succulent shrimp smothered in a rich and buttery sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
3. Add the shrimp and toss until well coated with the mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Sprinkle lemon zest and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, crunchy slaw, and a creamy avocado lime crema. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup crema (or sour cream)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, mix slaw ingredients in a bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, combine avocado, crema, and a squeeze of lime juice.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp on tortillas, topping with slaw, and dolloping with avocado crema. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet Shrimp with Tomatoes and Spinach
A flavorful and quick seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp, sweet tomatoes, and nutritious spinach in a savory skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to break down.
6. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
8. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
9. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Shrimp with Spicy Mayo
This recipe combines the convenience of an air fryer with the bold flavors of spicy mayo, creating a mouthwatering snack that’s sure to please. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy succulent shrimp with a kick!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup spicy mayo (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Load the shrimp into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve the shrimp hot with spicy mayo drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Lemon Pepper Shrimp Skewers
Brighten up your meal with these zesty and flavorful shrimp skewers, infused with the warmth of pepper and the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt to taste
• 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Thread 2-3 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Fried Rice in 15 Minutes
This recipe yields a flavorful and savory shrimp fried rice dish that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this Chinese-inspired classic is a staple in many households.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan, and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp and Asparagus
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of butter and garlic to create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp and tender asparagus are the stars of this show, making it a great option for seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tablespoons)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with asparagus and sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Shrimp and Grits
Easy Shrimp and Grits Recipe
A classic Southern comfort food, shrimp and grits is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch. This recipe requires just a few ingredients and comes together quickly.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve the shrimp on top of cooked grits with a drizzle of heavy cream and sprinkle of parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Asia with these mouthwatering Teriyaki shrimp and pineapple skewers, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Thread shrimp and pineapple chunks onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp and pineapple.
5. Grill or cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sheet Pan Shrimp and Broccoli
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare shrimp and broccoli on a sheet pan, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a busy night when you need a healthy meal in a hurry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the shrimp in a single layer on one half of the sheet pan.
4. Toss the broccoli with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread it out on the other half of the sheet pan.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the broccoli is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of pesto and pasta, all tossed together with crisp veggies and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat pesto over medium-high heat. Add shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and parsley.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Shrimp Noodle Bowl
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy Thai chili flakes with succulent shrimp and savory noodles, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious bowl that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add shrimp and Thai chili flakes; cook until pink and just cooked through.
4. Stir in soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into the world of shrimp with these 20 simple and easy recipes perfect for beginners! From classic garlic butter dishes to international-inspired flavors, this collection has something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon, Quick Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables, or Honey Garlic Shrimp Skillet for a taste of home. For a twist, try Coconut Lime Grilled Shrimp or Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Rice. With recipes ranging from 15-minute meals to flavorful one-pot dishes, you’ll never run out of shrimp-ful ideas!