7 Dinner Recipes Using Shrimp

Shrimp’s versatility and deliciousness make it perfect for dinner! You could whip up Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for a quick weeknight meal or spice things up with Spicy Shrimp Tacos. How about a comforting bowl of Shrimp Fried Rice or fresh Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers? Feeling healthy? Try Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles for a low-carb option or savor the flavors of a Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry. And if you’re in the mood for something exotic, Coconut Curry Shrimp brings tropical vibes right to your table. Intrigued? There’s plenty more culinary inspiration waiting for you!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Title: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Large pot, skillet, colander, wooden spoon, measuring cups, measuring spoons
Cuisine Type: Italian-American

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that beautifully combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, served over perfectly cooked pasta. This dish isn’t only packed with flavor but also comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.

The golden garlic butter sauce coats the pasta and shrimp, creating a delightful harmony of taste and texture that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to enhance both the flavor and nutritional value.

Pair it with a light salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal that showcases the freshness of the ingredients and the ease of Italian cooking.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Begin by cooking the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once cooked to al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip them over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fully cooked through and opaque.
4. Once the shrimp are cooked, add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to combine, allowing the pasta to absorb the garlic butter sauce. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top and mix well.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Extra Tips: To save time, you can buy pre-cooked shrimp and simply heat them up in the garlic butter sauce for an even quicker meal. If you prefer a hint of freshness, add some lemon zest along with the juice for an extra flavor boost.

This dish can easily be made gluten-free by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!

Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Title: Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Skillet, mixing bowl, spatula, taco shells, cutting board
Cuisine Type: Mexican

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty mix of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin, creating a deliciously spicy kick.

Paired with crunchy cabbage and a creamy avocado sauce, these tacos aren’t only quick to prepare but also provide a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

This recipe highlights the versatility of shrimp, making them a fantastic choice for taco night. The combination of heat from the spices and the cool, creamy avocado sauce creates a delightful contrast that elevates the dish.

Serve these tacos with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or additional hot sauce for those who crave even more heat, and enjoy a taste of Mexico right at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 avocado
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the avocado sauce by blending the avocado and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) in a small bowl until smooth. You can add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavor.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough if cooked for too long.
4. Warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave until they’re pliable. This will make it easier to fold the tacos without tearing them.
5. To assemble the tacos, place a few shrimp in each tortilla, top with shredded cabbage, and drizzle the avocado sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime if desired.

Extra Tips: If you want to add some extra crunch and flavor, consider topping your tacos with diced tomatoes or pickled red onions.

To make these tacos even spicier, you can add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp marinade or serve it on the side. These tacos are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the avocado sauce and marinate the shrimp ahead of time to save on prep time during mealtime.

Enjoy your delicious and spicy shrimp tacos!

Shrimp Fried Rice

Title: Shrimp Fried Rice
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Large skillet or wok, spatula, measuring cups, knife, cutting board
Cuisine Type: Asian

Shrimp Fried Rice is a classic dish that brings together succulent shrimp, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice in a delightful stir-fry. This quick and satisfying meal isn’t only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients.

The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil infuses the dish with a rich umami flavor, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. Using leftover rice is ideal, as it helps achieve that perfect texture without becoming mushy.

You can also easily adjust the recipe to include any vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers. Serve it on its own or pair it with a side of steamed dumplings for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten (optional)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your ingredients. If you’re using day-old rice, break up any clumps with your fingers to guarantee that it will fry evenly. Peel and devein the shrimp, and chop the vegetables into small pieces for quick cooking.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and garlic, stir-frying for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. If you’re using fresh vegetables, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, followed by the cooked shrimp, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sliced green onions. Stir everything together, allowing the rice to fry and absorb the flavors for about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat and serve the shrimp fried rice hot. Garnish with additional green onions if desired.

Extra Tips: To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. If you prefer a more authentic taste, feel free to use oyster sauce or hoisin sauce in place of soy sauce.

This dish is also great for meal prep; simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp fried rice!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Title: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Skewers, grill or grill pan, mixing bowl, basting brush
Cuisine Type: Mediterranean

These Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers are a delightful dish that’s both quick and simple to prepare, making them a perfect option for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic beautifully complement the succulent shrimp, infusing each bite with a revitalizing zest that’s sure to please.

Grilling the skewers adds a smoky char that enhances the overall taste, creating a dish that isn’t only delicious but visually appealing as well. Ideal for serving as an appetizer or a main course, these shrimp skewers can be paired with a variety of sides such as rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.

The recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste by adding your favorite herbs or spices. With just a few ingredients, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine while being incredibly easy to whip up in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Whisk together to create a marinade that will infuse the shrimp with flavor.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing to guarantee that each shrimp is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking. This will help them grill nicely and prevent them from sticking together.
5. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough if grilled for too long.
6. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Extra Tips: For an added kick of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade, or swap out the oregano for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

These shrimp skewers can also be cooked in the oven under the broiler if grilling isn’t an option. Additionally, feel free to mix in some vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers for a colorful and nutritious addition. Enjoy your flavorful and vibrant meal!

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Title: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Wok or large skillet, spatula, measuring cups, measuring spoons
Cuisine Type: Asian

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together succulent shrimp and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a healthy meal on the table in no time.

The vibrant colors and textures make it not only appetizing but also visually appealing, ensuring it delights both the palate and the eyes. With the addition of garlic and ginger, each bite bursts with flavor, making this stir-fry a family favorite.

This dish is also highly versatile; you can easily adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option. The combination of protein from the shrimp and fiber from the broccoli makes it a nutritious choice that satisfies hunger without feeling heavy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the shrimp and broccoli. If not already done, peel and devein the shrimp, and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go, as stir-frying is a quick process.
2. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and chicken broth (or water) together to create the stir-fry sauce. Set aside this mixture for later use.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
4. Add the shrimp to the wok and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to turn pink and are mostly cooked through. Then, add the broccoli florets and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the shrimp and broccoli, stirring to coat everything evenly. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are fully cooked.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat. Serve the shrimp and broccoli stir-fry hot over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy your delicious meal!

Extra Tips: For a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the stir-fry. If you’re looking to add more vegetables, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots work wonderfully.

To save time, you can use pre-cooked shrimp or frozen broccoli florets, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy shrimp and broccoli stir-fry!

Shrimp Scampi With Zoodles

Title: Shrimp Scampi With Zoodles
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Large skillet, spiralizer or vegetable peeler, measuring spoons, tongs, serving plates
Cuisine Type: Italian-American

Shrimp Scampi With Zoodles is a light and flavorful twist on the classic shrimp scampi dish, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a low-carb meal without sacrificing taste. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and a hint of lemon creates a rich sauce that perfectly coats the zoodles, or zucchini noodles, offering a fresh and healthy alternative to traditional pasta.

This dish isn’t only quick to prepare but also presents beautifully, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The spiralized zucchini adds a delightful texture and absorbs the flavors of the garlic and butter sauce, making every bite satisfying.

This recipe is incredibly versatile—feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or spices to tailor it to your taste. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, this Shrimp Scampi With Zoodles is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into zoodles
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to brown the garlic.
2. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 5-6 minutes total.
3. Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze the juice of one lemon into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and butter sauce. This will add a fresh and zesty flavor to the dish.
4. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the zoodles are tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Shrimp Scampi With Zoodles immediately on plates, making sure to spoon some of the buttery sauce over each serving.

Extra Tips: To enhance the flavor of the dish, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic and before adding the shrimp. This will create a deeper sauce.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can also add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water. Additionally, feel free to customize your zoodles by incorporating other vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Coconut Curry Shrimp

Title: Coconut Curry Shrimp
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Skillet, measuring cups, measuring spoons, spatula, serving bowl
Cuisine Type: Thai-inspired

Coconut Curry Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the tropical essence of coconut and spices right to your dinner table. This recipe features succulent shrimp simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce, infused with aromatic curry paste, garlic, and ginger.

The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and hearty dish that’s both comforting and exotic, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served over rice or with fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

The coconut milk adds a luscious texture while the curry paste provides a gentle heat that can be adjusted to suit your taste. With its beautiful colors and delightful flavors, Coconut Curry Shrimp is sure to impress your family and friends, transporting them to a tropical paradise with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red and yellow)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. This will add a sweet and savory base to your curry.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, stirring frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Stir in the red curry paste, mixing well to combine with the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and lime juice, stirring until the curry paste is fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes.
5. Add the shrimp and sliced bell peppers to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the curry sauce. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the bell peppers are tender.
6. Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Extra Tips: To enhance the flavor of your Coconut Curry Shrimp, feel free to add additional vegetables such as snap peas or zucchini. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of red curry paste.

For a heartier meal, serve the curry over jasmine rice or quinoa, and don’t forget to squeeze a little extra lime juice on top for added brightness. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Conclusion

Now that you’ve got these delicious shrimp recipes at your fingertips, which one are you most excited to try first? Whether you’re craving something spicy, creamy, or light, there’s a dish here to satisfy every palate. Cooking with shrimp is a fun way to bring a taste of the ocean right to your dinner table. So grab your apron, channel your inner chef, and get ready to impress your family or friends with these mouthwatering meals!