Name: Savory Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Bursting with Flavor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 1 bunch Fresh Parsley (Finely chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 Fresno Pepper Fresno Pepper (Finely chopped); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Fresh oil preferred); 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar; to taste Salt & Pepper (Essential seasoning duo); 1 pound Jumbo Shrimp (Peeled and deveined); 1 tablespoon Honey; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika

There I was, staring at the fridge, craving something vibrant but quick to whip up. That’s when I decided to embrace the zesty flavors of Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp. This dish is an absolute game-changer—juicy, perfectly seared shrimp combined with a fresh and lively chimichurri sauce that bursts with the notes of parsley, garlic, and tangy vinegar. Not only is it ready in no time, but it also delights the senses and leaves you feeling great about what you’re eating. Perfectly suited for health-conscious seafood lovers, this recipe lets you bring a touch of Argentinian flair to your home kitchen effortlessly. So, are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this delicious seafood delight? Let’s dive in!

Why is Chimichurri So Irresistible?

Bold flavors: This Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp recipe brings freshness to your plate, featuring a vibrant chimichurri sauce that harmonizes tangy vinegar and fragrant herbs.

Quick and easy: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can have a stunning meal ready that’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Nutrient-packed: Savory and satisfying, this dish is filled with wholesome ingredients—ideal for health-conscious foodies who crave flavor.

Versatile serving options: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or with crusty bread—this shrimp is sure to impress at any gathering. You might also enjoy pairing it with a side of Grilled Shrimp Bowl for a complete meal.

Crowd pleaser: Whether cooking for yourself or entertaining, this dish will wow your guests and family with its vibrant presentation and delicious taste!

Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Ingredients

Dive into the fresh flavors with these essential ingredients for your dish!

For the Chimichurri Sauce

Parsley – Fresh herb providing bright flavor and color; using fresh parsley is key to achieving the zesty taste.
Garlic – Aromatic addition that enhances overall flavor; opt for fresh minced garlic for the best kick.
Fresno Pepper – Adds a mild spice and color; swap with jalapeño if you prefer a bit more heat.
Oregano – Dried herb that complements the chimichurri’s flavor profile.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Binds the chimichurri while enhancing richness; fresh oil is preferred for optimal taste.
Red Wine Vinegar – Brings acidity to balance the richness of the shrimp.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning duo that elevates all the flavors.

For the Shrimp

Shrimp (Jumbo) – Main protein in this dish; ensure they are peeled and deveined for cooking.
Honey – Adds a mild sweetness to marinate the shrimp, balancing out the spices.
Smoked Paprika – Enhances depth of flavor with a hint of smokiness; perfect for tying all the elements together.

Embrace the culinary journey with these elements of Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp, ready to take your taste buds on a delightful adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare Chimichurri Sauce
Finely chop fresh parsley, garlic, and Fresno pepper by hand, ensuring a vibrant mix. In a bowl, combine them with dried oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed. This chimichurri sauce offers a burst of flavor, so take care to mix thoroughly for the perfect blend. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Add Liquids
To your chopped herb mixture, incorporate extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, stirring well to create a rich, zesty sauce. This enhances the freshness of the chimichurri. Cover it and let it sit at room temperature for at least an hour—this steeping period elevates the sauce’s taste, making each bite of the Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp even more irresistible.

Step 3: Marinate Shrimp
Take the peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp and place them in a bowl. Drizzle olive oil, add minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, tossing everything together to coat the shrimp evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the shrimp for maximum deliciousness in your Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp.

Step 4: Cook Shrimp
Preheat a grill pan or skillet over high heat until it’s sizzling hot—this ensures perfect searing. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and develop a beautiful golden color. This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying texture in your Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp.

Step 5: Coat with Sauce
Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, transfer them to a serving dish, ensuring they stay hot and tender. Generously spoon the vibrant chimichurri sauce over the shrimp, allowing it to cascade beautifully. To enhance presentation and flavor, serve extra chimichurri sauce in a ramekin alongside, inviting everyone to indulge in every last bite of your delightful Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp.

Expert Tips for Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp

Chop Carefully: Use a sharp knife for the chimichurri ingredients to maintain a fresh texture; avoid a food processor to prevent becoming mushy.
Hot Pan: Preheat your skillet or grill pan until it’s sizzling before adding shrimp to achieve that perfect sear; overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of searing.
Flavor Infusion: Allow the chimichurri to sit for at least an hour or overnight in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors; this makes your Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp even more vibrant.
Quality Ingredients: Opt for the freshest herbs and high-quality olive oil; they greatly enhance the overall taste and freshness of the dish.
Watch Cooking Time: Remove your shrimp as soon as they turn opaque; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture, ruining the delightful experience of your dish.

What to Serve with Zesty Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp

Delight your senses by crafting a wholesome meal that perfectly complements the vibrant flavors of your shrimp.

Lemon Quinoa Salad: A light and nutty side, this salad adds a refreshing contrast that enhances the dish’s bright chimichurri notes.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus with a garlicky finish brings a satisfying crunch and pairs beautifully with the herbaceous shrimp.
Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and creamy rice adds an exotic flair, balancing the spiciness of the chimichurri and the shrimp’s richness.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful medley of your favorite vegetables provides texture and vitality, making for a deliciously vibrant plate.
Crusty Bread: Nothing beats dipping warm, crusty bread into chimichurri sauce, giving your meal an irresistible rustic charm.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or refreshing Pinot Grigio enhances the dish, elevating your dining experience to new heights.
Chimichurri Tacos: Serve the shrimp in warmed tortillas with extra chimichurri and toppings like avocado and slaw for a fun, handheld meal.
Greek Yogurt Dip: A zesty yogurt dip drizzled with olive oil offers a cool-touch contrast, perfect for balancing the shrimp’s spices.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with citrus notes brings a welcome sweetness, harmonizing with the bold flavors of the dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chimichurri sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully in the refrigerator. Additionally, the shrimp can be marinated for 20 minutes and then stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure the marinated shrimp are kept chilled and cook them right before serving for that just-seared perfection. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat a grill pan and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. This makes assembling a delicious meal a breeze on busy weeknights!

Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Seafood Swap: Replace jumbo shrimp with scallops, sea bass, or firm white fish for a delightful twist. Each option offers its own unique flavor profile while still allowing that chimichurri magic to shine through.
Skewered Delight: For a fun grilling option, thread the marinated shrimp onto wooden skewers. This not only makes for easy handling but also adds a fun presentation element that’s sure to impress your guests.
Spicy Kick: Adjust the heat of your dish by increasing the Fresno pepper or by adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the chimichurri. This way, you can take your taste buds on a fiery adventure!
Vegan Vibes: Swap the shrimp for grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms, and use a touch of maple syrup instead of honey. You’ll create a mouthwatering vegan option that still delivers all the zesty goodness of chimichurri.
Herbed Twist: Experiment with the herbs! Try adding mint or cilantro to your chimichurri for a fresh and vibrant flavor explosion that adds a unique flair. Each herb plays its part in brightening the overall taste of your dish.
Lemon Zing: A splash of fresh lemon juice added to the chimichurri can bring an extra zing that elevates the sauce. This refreshing addition pairs beautifully with the shrimp and brightens the overall dish.
Side Suggestions: Serve your chimichurri shrimp over a bed of quinoa or alongside roasted vegetables, or even inside tacos for a fun twist. Your family will love the versatility this dish offers!
Sauce Variations: Add avocado to your chimichurri for a creamy texture, making a luscious sauce that coats your shrimp perfectly. It’s an exquisite way to enhance the richness of each bite!

For another delicious way to enjoy shrimp, consider trying out the Spicy Shrimp Burritos for a new favorite.

How to Store and Freeze Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This keeps the shrimp fresh while allowing the flavors to meld nicely.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to maintain tenderness. Avoid overheating to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Chimichurri Sauce: Store excess chimichurri sauce separately in the fridge for up to a week or freeze in ice cube trays for convenient use later.

Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of parsley should I use for chimichurri?
Opt for fresh flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor. Its bright, herbaceous notes significantly enhance the chimichurri sauce, setting your Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp apart. Avoid using dried parsley, as it won’t deliver the same vibrant taste.

How should I store leftover chimichurri shrimp?
Store your leftover Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This will keep the shrimp juicy and flavorful while allowing the chimichurri to infuse even more. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat it in a skillet to maintain that perfect tenderness.

Can I freeze cooked shrimp, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp, first lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. You can enjoy them for up to 2 months, and when you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating.

What if my chimichurri sauce is too thick?
If your chimichurri sauce is thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash of extra virgin olive oil or red wine vinegar, mixing well. This not only loosens the texture but also enhances the flavors, ensuring each bite of your Pan Seared Chimichurri Shrimp is a delight!

Is this recipe suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
No, this dish features shrimp, which is a type of shellfish. If you’re preparing for someone with a shellfish allergy, consider substituting the shrimp with firm white fish or chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for best results.