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Pan Seared Shrimp Recipe

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4.1 from 2 reviews

A quick and flavorful pan-seared shrimp recipe that delivers perfectly cooked shrimp with a golden crust, seasoned with a hint of spice and fresh lemon juice. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is ideal for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Seasonings

  • 1 ½ pounds shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper

Cooking Fat

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (or butter)

Finishing and Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • lemon wedges (for serving)
  • fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a proper sear.
  2. Season the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper to evenly coat the shrimp with flavors.
  3. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add ½ tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Heat until the oil is shimmering, indicating it’s hot enough for searing.
  4. Cook the First Batch: Add half of the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until they start turning pink and develop a golden crust on the bottom. Flip the shrimp and cook an additional 1-2 minutes until fully opaque and nicely seared.
  5. Cook the Second Batch: Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate. Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of oil to the pan and cook the second half of the shrimp following the same method.
  6. Combine and Finish: Return the first batch of shrimp to the pan and toss them with the second batch. Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, and toss to coat evenly.
  7. Serve: Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve alongside lemon wedges for extra brightness.

Notes

  • Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before searing for the best crust formation.
  • Cook shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of searing.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor; bottled lemon juice can be a substitute in a pinch.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper quantity to control spiciness level.
  • Serve shrimp immediately for best texture and flavor.