How to Make Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Fast

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and satisfying crunch, look no further than Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp. This recipe combines the perfect blend of heat, saltiness, and peppery zest to bring your shrimp to life in just minutes. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a flavorful appetizer, Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp delivers a vibrant and fast meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lightning-Fast Preparation: Ready in under 20 minutes, ideal for busy schedules or last-minute cravings.
• Flavor Explosion: Combines spicy heat with savory salt and pepper for a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples that pack a powerful punch without complexity.
• Crispy and Juicy Texture: The shrimp stays succulent inside with a perfectly crispy exterior.
• Versatile Ingredient: Works great as an appetizer, main dish, or protein-packed snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe is chosen for its unique contribution to the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Simple yet essential, these elements come together seamlessly to create a dish you can whip up anytime.

• Large Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the star protein with a naturally sweet flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the natural taste of shrimp and balances the spice.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground, it provides the signature peppery kick.
• Red Chili Flakes: Adds heat and vibrant color, customizable to your spice tolerance.
• Garlic Powder: Brings a subtle earthy depth and warmth.
• Cornstarch or Potato Starch: Creates a light, crispy coating on the shrimp.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying and achieving that crispy golden finish.
• Fresh Green Onions: For a fresh, mild onion flavor and color contrast.
• Lemon or Lime Wedges: Optional, for a zesty brightness to finish the dish.

Variations for Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to tailor the heat and flavor profile to your liking. Feel free to get creative by swapping ingredients or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Mild Version: Reduce or omit red chili flakes to enjoy a gentler, flavorful salt and pepper shrimp.
• Extra Crunchy: Add panko breadcrumbs to the coating for a crunchier texture.
• Herb Twist: Toss in freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh herbaceous note.
• Gluten-Free: Use potato starch or cornstarch and ensure the soy sauce (if used) is gluten-free.
• Spicy Sauce Drizzle: Serve with a mixture of chili oil and soy sauce for extra spicy dipping.

How to Make Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and thoroughly patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures a crisp coating during frying and prevents oil splatters.

Step 2: Season and Coat

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red chili flakes. Then lightly coat them with cornstarch, shaking off any excess to get the perfect thin crust for frying.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a skillet or wok, heating it over medium-high until shimmering but not smoking. This temperature is key for frying the shrimp to a crispy golden brown quickly.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Carefully add the shrimp in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels to keep them crispy.

Step 5: Toss with Seasoning

While the shrimp are still hot, toss them with extra salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired for that final seasoning boost.

Step 6: Add Fresh Garnish

Finish with chopped green onions to add brightness and a fresh crunch that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Dry Your Shrimp Thoroughly: Ensures the coating sticks and results in maximum crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and avoid soggy shrimp.
• Use Freshly Ground Pepper: It makes a more vibrant, aromatic impact than pre-ground.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less chili flakes and add more if you love extra heat.
• Serve Immediately: The shrimp tastes best right after frying when it’s still crispy.

How to Serve Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Garnishes

Fresh chopped green onions, thin slices of red chili, and a squeeze of lemon or lime brighten the dish and balance the spice with a fresh twist.

Side Dishes

Serve with steamed jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or a crisp Asian-inspired slaw to add texture and keep things balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve these shrimp skewered or in mini lettuce cups for handheld bites. They’re also fantastic atop a bed of crispy noodles or mixed greens for a lively, colorful plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The shrimp remain flavorful but lose some crispiness.

Freezing

Freezing cooked shrimp with a crispy coating is not recommended as it can become soggy. For best texture, freeze raw seasoned shrimp instead.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp in a hot skillet or oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore some crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which makes the coating limp and chewy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure the coating sticks well and the shrimp crisp up nicely.

How spicy is Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp?

The heat level depends on how much red chili flakes you use. You can easily adjust it for a mild or fiery version based on your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use potato starch or cornstarch and check any additional sauces or seasonings for gluten-free certification, the dish can be enjoyed gluten-free.

What can I substitute for red chili flakes?

You can try cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili peppers if red chili flakes aren’t available to achieve a similar spicy kick.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?

While frying gives the best crispiness, you can bake shrimp coated with cornstarch at 425°F for about 10 minutes, turning halfway for a healthier alternative, though texture will differ.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is the kind of recipe that brings excitement to your dinner table without demanding much time or effort. Its lively combination of heat, saltiness, and crunch makes it a perfect quick meal or vibrant appetizer any day of the week. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to when you want a fast, flavorful seafood delight that feels like a little celebration on a plate.

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