why make this recipe
Crunchy Chili Lime Shrimp is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that adds a zesty twist to your dinner table. With its crispy coating and juicy shrimp, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. The bright flavors of lime and spicy chili create a delightful combination that will please everyone. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy cooks who want to impress their friends and family.
how to make Crunchy Chili Lime Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds uncooked shrimp (26-30 per pound), peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground ancho chili pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 medium lime
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and cubed
- Optional: Additional lime wedges and cilantro
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the first 7 ingredients (shrimp, minced garlic, paprika, ancho chili pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper) in a greased 15x10x1 inch pan.
- Finely grate the zest from the lime. Cut the lime in half and squeeze out the juice. Add both the zest and juice to the shrimp mixture and toss to coat well.
- In a small bowl, mix together the crushed tortilla chips, chopped cilantro, and olive oil.
- Sprinkle the chip mixture over the shrimp.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the shrimp turn pink, about 12-15 minutes.
- Once done, top the dish with halved cherry tomatoes and cubed avocado. Serve with extra lime wedges and cilantro if desired.
how to serve Crunchy Chili Lime Shrimp
Serve Crunchy Chili Lime Shrimp hot straight from the oven. This dish pairs well with a side of rice, a fresh green salad, or warm tortillas. You can also serve it as an appetizer at a gathering or a party. Adding extra lime wedges and cilantro on the side enhances the flavor and presentation.
how to store Crunchy Chili Lime Shrimp
If you have leftovers, let the shrimp cool, then place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in an oven or microwave before serving again to maintain the crunchy texture.
tips to make Crunchy Chili Lime Shrimp
- Make sure to not overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and tender when done.
- For extra crunch, you can add more crushed tortilla chips on top before baking.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more ancho chili pepper or using a spicier chip mixture.
variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the shrimp mixture. Additionally, try using different herbs like parsley or dill instead of cilantro for a unique flavor twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
Q: What can I substitute for tortilla chips?
A: You can use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs as a crunchy topping if you don’t have tortilla chips.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: If you use gluten-free tortilla chips, this recipe is gluten-free. Always check the labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.
