Fresh herbs, tangy lime, and a hint of spice make this Shrimp Chimichurri an irresistible dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you serve it as tacos, over rice, or as a light appetizer, the vibrant chimichurri sauce elevates the shrimp to a whole new level. This easy, versatile recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Let’s dive into this quick and delicious recipe!
Ingredients for Shrimp Chimichurri
For the Chimichurri:
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves, finely chopped
- ¼ cup parsley leaves, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 red Fresno chili, finely chopped
- ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (for garnish)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Chimichurri
1. Make the Chimichurri Sauce
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the finely chopped cilantro, parsley, garlic, and red Fresno chili.
- Zest the lime and add it to the bowl, along with its juice.
- Stir in the red wine vinegar, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the mixture is emulsified. Adjust the consistency with more olive oil, if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. For extra heat, add red chili flakes. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Sear the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sear the shrimp in the hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer to a bowl.
3. Toss with Chimichurri
- Pour the prepared chimichurri sauce over the warm shrimp. Toss to coat evenly, ensuring every shrimp is coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish with additional red chili flakes for a pop of color and heat, if desired.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Shrimp Chimichurri as:
- Tacos: Fill soft tortillas with shrimp, chimichurri, and your favorite toppings like avocado, slaw, or queso fresco.
- Over Rice: Spoon the shrimp and sauce over steamed white or cilantro-lime rice for a hearty meal.
- Appetizer: Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cilantro and parsley for the best flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same brightness.
- Marinate for Flavor: While not necessary, letting the shrimp sit in the chimichurri for 5-10 minutes intensifies the flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: For less heat, omit the Fresno chili and red chili flakes. For more, add an extra chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Double the Sauce: Chimichurri pairs beautifully with steak, chicken, or roasted vegetables, so make extra to use throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the chimichurri ahead of time?
Yes! Chimichurri can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using.
What other proteins can I use?
This chimichurri sauce is versatile and works wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, tofu, or even roasted vegetables.
Can I grill the shrimp instead?
Absolutely! Grill the shrimp on skewers for about 2 minutes per side over medium-high heat, then toss with chimichurri.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover shrimp and chimichurri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or enjoy cold as a salad topping.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Chimichurri Recipe is a fresh, zesty dish that’s bursting with flavor and versatility. Whether you serve it as tacos, a main dish, or an appetizer, the combination of tender shrimp and vibrant chimichurri is sure to impress.
Gather your ingredients, whip up this easy recipe, and enjoy a meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Happy cooking!