Shrimp Chimichurri: A Flavorful and Zesty Delight
Shrimp Chimichurri is a fantastic dish that combines the smoky flavor of grilled shrimp with the tangy and herby goodness of chimichurri sauce. Chimichurri is a traditional Argentine sauce made from parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, which complements shrimp beautifully.
The fresh herbs and spices in the sauce bring out the best in the shrimp, making it a perfect dish for summer barbecues, seafood lovers, or anyone looking for a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
200g Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
1 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh oregano (chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the chimichurri sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the lemon juice and mix well, ensuring the shrimp is evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
You can cook the shrimp in a grill pan, on a BBQ grill, or in a skillet. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If grilling, thread the shrimp onto skewers. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and pink.
Step 4: Serve
Once the shrimp is cooked, transfer it to a serving plate and drizzle the chimichurri sauce generously over the top. You can serve the shrimp with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Chimichurri:
Grill or Skewer the Shrimp: Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to the shrimp. If you don’t have a grill, you can also sauté the shrimp in a skillet with a little olive oil.
Adjust the Heat: If you like extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the chimichurri sauce.
Make Ahead: Chimichurri sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will develop and deepen over time.
Serve with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Shrimp Chimichurri is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will bring a burst of flavor to your next meal. The zesty, herby chimichurri sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Enjoy this vibrant and healthy dish with your favorite sides!