This Pan-Seared Citrus Shrimp dish bursts with the fresh flavors of orange and lemon, enhanced by the gentle heat of red pepper flakes and the aromatic presence of garlic and herbs. It’s a light, refreshing, and easy-to-make entrée that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
- 5 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion (or shallot)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt, to taste
- 3 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium orange, cut into wedges or slices
- 1 medium lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions:
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped red onion, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and gently mix to ensure the shrimp are well coated. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator, but not much longer to prevent the citrus from starting to cook the shrimp.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Shrimp:
- Remove the shrimp from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear them in the hot skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce the Marinade:
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce is reduced by half, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the reduced citrus sauce. Heat through for an additional minute.
- Serve:
- Serve the pan-seared citrus shrimp immediately, garnished with additional fresh parsley and accompanied by the fresh orange and lemon wedges for squeezing over the shrimp.
Tips:
- Serving Suggestions: This shrimp dish pairs beautifully with light salads, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the citrus sauce.
- Citrus Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of citrus like grapefruit or lime for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat.
Conclusion:
Pan-Seared Citrus Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of orange juice with the tangy brightness of lemon, all highlighted by the savory depth of garlic and herbs. It’s a delightful recipe that showcases the versatility of shrimp and is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and explosive flavor. Enjoy this delightful seafood dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!