Easy Shrimp Recipes

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover a collection of easy shrimp recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, these dishes will delight seafood lovers.

Abigail Foster

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-31T17:28:11.600Z

These easy shrimp recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal. Shrimp is versatile, cooks quickly, and takes on flavors beautifully, making it a favorite in many households.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
  • Flavorful dishes that impress without the fuss
  • Healthy seafood option that is high in protein

Versatile and Delicious

Shrimp is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of cuisines. From Mexican shrimp tacos to Italian shrimp scampi, the possibilities are endless. Each recipe brings out the unique flavors of shrimp while allowing for a range of spices and ingredients that can transform a simple meal into a culinary delight.

Whether you prefer your shrimp grilled, sautéed, or boiled, these easy shrimp recipes will satisfy your cravings. They can be prepared quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Healthy and Nutritious

Shrimp is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. It's low in calories and rich in protein, making it a perfect option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, shrimp contains essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium, which contribute to overall health and well-being.

Incorporating shrimp into your meals can help you meet your protein needs while keeping your dishes light and flavorful. These recipes allow you to enjoy the health benefits of seafood without compromising on taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These shrimp recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. Their ease of preparation means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. Impress your guests with vibrant flavors and colorful presentations, all while keeping the cooking process simple.

From the zesty garlic butter of shrimp scampi to the fresh toppings of shrimp tacos, these recipes are sure to please a crowd. They also offer flexibility for customization, allowing you to adapt them to suit your guests' preferences.

Ingredients

Shrimp Scampi

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Shrimp Tacos

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste
  • Corn tortillas
  • Cabbage slaw and avocado for topping

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients according to your taste.

Instructions

Prepare Shrimp Scampi

  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Make Shrimp Tacos

  1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  3. Warm the corn tortillas in another pan.
  4. Assemble the tacos with shrimp, cabbage slaw, and avocado.

Enjoy your delicious shrimp dishes!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp

When cooking shrimp, timing is crucial. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on them as they cook. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, usually taking just a few minutes depending on their size.

For added flavor, consider marinating your shrimp for about 30 minutes before cooking. Simple marinades made with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices can enhance the natural taste of shrimp and make your dishes even more delicious.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair your shrimp scampi with a light pasta or a fresh garden salad to create a complete meal. The buttery sauce complements both flavors beautifully, making for a satisfying dining experience.

For shrimp tacos, consider serving them with a refreshing salsa or a side of black beans and rice. These sides not only enhance the meal but also add extra nutrients and textures, making your dinner more enjoyable.

Storage and Reheating

Any leftovers from your shrimp dishes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to consume them fresh, but they can still be enjoyed later.

When reheating shrimp, do so gently to avoid overcooking. A quick sauté in a skillet or a brief time in the microwave should suffice. Be sure to add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist during reheating.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute.

→ How do I know when shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl slightly but not be overcooked.

→ Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

It's best to cook shrimp just before serving, but you can prep the ingredients in advance.

Easy Shrimp Recipes

Discover a collection of easy shrimp recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, these dishes will delight seafood lovers.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Abigail Foster

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Shrimp Scampi

  1. 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  2. 4 tablespoons butter
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1/4 cup white wine
  5. Juice of 1 lemon
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. Chopped parsley for garnish

Shrimp Tacos

  1. 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. 1 teaspoon chili powder
  4. 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  5. Salt to taste
  6. Corn tortillas
  7. Cabbage slaw and avocado for topping

How-To Steps

Step 01

  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Step 02

  1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  3. Warm the corn tortillas in another pan.
  4. Assemble the tacos with shrimp, cabbage slaw, and avocado.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 200mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 22g