When it comes to Spicy Garlic Shrimp, the pairing options are as delightful as the dish itself. The shrimp’s zest and bite make it versatile, complementing a range of sides. Here are a few suggestions:
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffiness of jasmine rice soaks up the delicious garlicky sauce, making every bite a flavorful experience.
Fresh Garden Salad: A simple salad with crisp greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dresses beautifully, balancing the heat of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love garlic bread? It serves as a perfect companion to scoop up any leftover sauce.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini offers a refreshing and light alternative.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection brings out their sweetness and pairs wonderfully with shrimp.

I remember the first time I whipped up a batch of Spicy Garlic Shrimp. It was a hectic weeknight—a million things on my mind, and no time to spare. My friends were coming over, and takeout was simply not an option.
With just 20 minutes on the clock, I created a dish that was not only quick but packed a punch in flavor. That evening turned a simple gathering into a memorable culinary adventure!
If you’re craving something quick, flavorful, and exciting, this dish is for you. Honestly, the magic lies in how easily you can achieve a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. The best part? You probably have most of the ingredients right in your pantry!
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What is Spicy Garlic Shrimp in 20 Minutes?
Spicy Garlic Shrimp is an eye-catching dish known for its bright flavors and vibrant appearance. Imagine succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in a spicy garlic sauce. You have the freshness from garlic, a kick from chili powder, and a hint of zest from lemon. It’s a medley that offers depth in every bite.
This dish belongs to the realm of quick cooking, where simplicity meets extraordinary taste. In just 20 minutes, you transform basic ingredients into a sensational dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Garlic Shrimp
When you sit down to savor the Spicy Garlic Shrimp, you’ll wonder how something so simple can be so delightful. There are several reasons this dish is a keeper.
Quick Cooking Time: In a world where time is always in short supply, 20 minutes can feel like a lifeline. With minimal preparation, you get to enjoy a homemade meal with effortless ease.
Flavor Explosion: The intense garlic aroma hits you as it cooks, making your mouth water in anticipation. The combination of spices adds layers that awaken your taste buds.
Health Benefits: Shrimp is a powerhouse of lean protein, making it ideal for those of us who want to stay on the healthy side without sacrificing flavor. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it can be part of a balanced diet.
Versatility: Whether you’re serving it for a lively gathering or a quiet dinner, this dish fits right in. You can adjust the spice level or mix it with different sides to vibe with the occasion.
Impressive Presentation: A simple plate of Spicy Garlic Shrimp garnished with fresh herbs can easily become the show stopper at any table.
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Spicy Garlic Shrimp
Before you put on your apron, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe uses common items found at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 20 medium prawns or shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 10 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- ½ tablespoon smoked paprika (optional): This gives a subtle smoky flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ tablespoon dried thyme leaves
1½ cups cornstarch: For that perfect crisp coating. - 1 tablespoon garlic powder: For an extra boost of garlic flavor.
- ½ tablespoon red chili powder: Adds that delightful heat.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens up the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Provides umami and balances the flavors.
- ¼ tablespoon dried oregano: For herbal depth.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lemon
- Parmesean cheese for garnish
- 2.5 table spoon of butter
- 1.5 table spoon of korean red chilli paste
Together, these ingredients create a dish that is not only flavorful but also deeply satisfying.
Directions for Preparing Spicy Garlic Shrimp
Getting ready to cook? Here’s your step-by-step guide to whipping up this delicious dish.
Step 1: Prepare Your Shrimp
Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning adhere better.
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, paprika, garlic powder, red chili powder, dried thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Toss the shrimp in the spiced cornstarch mixture. Ensure every shrimp is well-coated. You want that crunchy texture when it’s cooked.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Wait until it shimmers—this signals that the pan is perfectly prepped for cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Add the coated shrimp to the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. You know they’re ready when they turn opaque and curl up.
Step 6: Add Garlic and Spices
Once the shrimp are cooked, add the minced garlic and continue to stir for about a minute, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle in the lemon zest. Toss it all together.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Once everything is well combined and fragrant, transfer the shrimp onto a serving platter. Garnish with some fresh herbs if available.

Notes on Making Spicy Garlic Shrimp
Here are some tips to ensure your Spicy Garlic Shrimp turns out perfectly every time:
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and shrimp for the best flavor.
Monitor the Heat: If you’re not a fan of spicy, reduce the chili powder or skip it entirely.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your shrimp. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
Variations: Try adding lemon juice or fresh herbs during cooking for contrasting flavor notes.
Serve Immediately: This dish tastes best right after cooking, as the shrimp remain crispy and flavorful.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, store them properly for the next day. Here’s how:
Cool Down: Let the shrimp cool to room temperature.
Airtight Container: Place them in an airtight container. This helps retain moisture.
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently so the shrimp don’t lose their tenderness.
Freezing: If longer storage is needed, freeze the shrimp in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-friendly bag. Ideally, consume within a month.
Nutrition Information
This dish is not just quick and delicious; it’s also relatively healthy. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition you can expect from a serving:
It is low in calories while still providing a hearty dose of protein.

Serving Suggestions
To make this dish truly shine, here are some serving ideas:
Over Steamed Rice: Lay these zesty shrimp atop a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the juices to soak in.
In Tacos: Turn your shrimp into tacos! Load them up with slaw and avocado for an excellent twist.
Alongside Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside asparagus or zucchini for a colorful, nutritious plate.
With Zoodles: For a fresh spin, consider zucchini noodles. They offer a delicious alternative.
As Part of a Family Platter: Serve with a selection of sides like coleslaw and cornbread for a complete meal.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Spicy Garlic Shrimp?
If for any reason you find yourself lacking some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are substitutes that work well without compromising the flavor profile:
Chicken instead of Shrimp: Chicken breast works beautifully if you prefer poultry over seafood.
Vegetable Broth for Soy Sauce: If you’re avoiding soy, try using vegetable broth to keep it flavorful.
Coconut Aminos instead of Soy Sauce: This is a great alternative for a soy-free version.
Garlic Paste in place of Fresh Garlic: In a pinch, use garlic paste; it provides the same robust flavor.
Rice Flour instead of Cornstarch: This will still give you a lovely coating for a crispy texture.
Conclusion
There you have it! Spicy Garlic Shrimp in just 20 minutes can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary delight.
As a busy person, I understand the value of shortcuts without sacrificing flavor. This dish represents just that. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, it consistently impresses.
Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines speed, flavor, and sheer delight. Enjoy!
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Spicy Garlic Shrimp 20 Minutes Recipe – Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Description
I remember the first time I whipped up a batch of Spicy Garlic Shrimp. It was a hectic weeknight—a million things on my mind, and no time to spare. My friends were coming over, and takeout was simply not an option.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Getting ready to cook? Here’s your step-by-step guide to whipping up this delicious dish.
Step 1: Prepare Your Shrimp
-
Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning adhere better.
Step 2: Make the Coating
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, paprika, garlic powder, red chili powder, dried thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
-
Toss the shrimp in the spiced cornstarch mixture. Ensure every shrimp is well-coated. You want that crunchy texture when it’s cooked.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
-
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Wait until it shimmers—this signals that the pan is perfectly prepped for cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
-
Add the coated shrimp to the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. You know they’re ready when they turn opaque and curl up.
Step 6: Add Garlic and Spices
-
Once the shrimp are cooked, add the minced garlic and continue to stir for about a minute, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle in the lemon zest. Toss it all together.
Step 7: Serve Hot
-
Once everything is well combined and fragrant, transfer the shrimp onto a serving platter. Garnish with some fresh herbs if available.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 236kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.9g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
- Cholesterol 38mg13%
- Sodium 517mg22%
- Total Carbohydrate 51g17%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 6g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some tips to ensure your Spicy Garlic Shrimp turns out perfectly every time:
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and shrimp for the best flavor.
Monitor the Heat: If you're not a fan of spicy, reduce the chili powder or skip it entirely.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your shrimp. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
Variations: Try adding lemon juice or fresh herbs during cooking for contrasting flavor notes.
Serve Immediately: This dish tastes best right after cooking, as the shrimp remain crispy and flavorful.