Garlic Chili Shrimp with Smoked Paprika

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on

½ teaspoon kosher salt

1 tsp chili flakes (less if really hot)

4 large cloves garlic, minced

⅓ cup dry sherry

2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, diced

¼ teaspoon smoked sweet paprika

1 tablespoon finely chopped flat-leaf parsley

Lemon wedges, optional

Instructions

Step 1

Warm a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.

Add oil; swirl to coat.

Add shrimp in a single layer.

Cook, undisturbed, until lightly golden, about 90 seconds.

Sprinkle with salt, crushed red pepper and garlic; turn shrimp and sauté until just cooked through, about 1 minute longer.

Transfer to a platter and tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 2

Add sherry to skillet; cook, stirring to release brown bits from bottom of skillet, until liquid has reduced by about half, 1 to 2 minutes.

Stir in lemon juice and juices from shrimp.

Remove skillet from heat; add butter and smoked paprika and stir until sauce is creamy.

Spoon sauce over shrimp; sprinkle with parsley.

Serve immediately, with lemon wedges, if desired.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is it necessary to use dry sherry, or can I substitute it with something else?

Dry sherry adds a unique flavor to the dish, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with dry white wine or chicken broth.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your preference for spiciness.

Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor and add more if you like it spicier.

What is the purpose of tenting the cooked shrimp with foil?

Tenting the shrimp with foil helps to keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.

It also prevents them from drying out.

I don’t have smoked paprika. Can I use regular paprika instead?

While smoked paprika adds a distinct smoky flavor, you can substitute it with regular paprika if needed.

However, note that the smokiness will be missing from the dish.

Adjust the quantity to taste.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

Shrimp cook quickly and turn opaque and pink when they are done.

Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use other cooking oils like vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer.

However, olive oil adds a distinct flavor to the dish.

What can I serve with garlic chili shrimp?

Garlic chili shrimp pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best to serve garlic chili shrimp immediately after cooking for optimal flavor and texture, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook them just before serving.

How should leftovers be stored?

Leftover garlic chili shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.