How to Make Salt and Pepper Shrimp Perfectly

Salt and Pepper Shrimp is an absolute favorite among seafood lovers for its crispy texture, bold flavors, and simple preparation. This dish combines perfectly seasoned, crunchy shrimp with the aromatic punch of salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic and chili—making every bite irresistibly delicious. Learn the secrets to cooking crispy, flavorful Salt and Pepper Shrimp perfectly every time with this easy step-by-step guide that helps you master this crowd-pleasing recipe with confidence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests.
• Crunchy Texture: The shrimp get a delightfully crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the tender inside.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to create a dish bursting with flavor.
• Customizable Heat: Easily adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili flakes to suit your taste.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress friends and family with a dish that tastes like it’s from a top-notch Asian bistro.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Salt and Pepper Shrimp plays an important role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the fresh shrimp to the vibrant aromatics and simple seasoning that highlights the seafood’s natural sweetness.

• Fresh Shrimp: Deveined and peeled medium-large shrimp deliver the perfect balance of tenderness and bite.
• Cornstarch: Provides a light, crispy coating without greasiness, essential for that perfect crunch.
• Salt and Pepper: The foundational seasoning that creates the signature flavor of the dish.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic warmth and depth to the shrimp.
• Fresh Chili or Chili Flakes: Offers a pleasant kick that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a fresh, slightly sharp contrast and color pop.
• Oil for Frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola to get that perfect golden crust.

Variations for Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Feel free to tweak this dish to fit your preferences or dietary needs. These variations make it easy to keep the recipe fresh and exciting every time you make it.

• Spicy Kick: Add extra fresh chilies or a drizzle of Sriracha to turn up the heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap cornstarch for rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend to keep it crispy and safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Herbal Twist: Toss in fresh cilantro or basil at the end for a fragrant, herbal boost.
• Lemon Zest: Add zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors with a citrusy note.
• Garlic Butter Finish: Stir in a little melted garlic butter after frying for a richer indulgence.

How to Make Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which ensures they fry up crisp and not soggy. Make sure the shrimp are completely dry before coating.

Step 2: Season and Coat

In a bowl, sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the shrimp. Then, toss the shrimp with cornstarch until each piece is lightly but thoroughly coated—this forms the crispy outer shell once fried.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour enough vegetable or canola oil into a deep skillet or wok to allow for shallow frying. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C), or until a small bit of cornstarch sizzles immediately when dropped in.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Carefully add shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to eliminate excess oil.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Aromatics

In the same pan, briefly sauté minced garlic, sliced green onions, and chili flakes until fragrant. Toss the fried shrimp back in to coat with these aromatic flavors evenly.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with additional green onions or fresh chili slices if desired. Enjoy while hot and crispy for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Dry Thoroughly: Patting shrimp dry is crucial for achieving a crispy coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even crispiness.
• Fresh Spices: Use freshly ground black pepper for the most vibrant peppery flavor.
• High Smoke Point Oil: Choose neutral oils like canola or peanut for frying to avoid burning.
• Serve Hot: This dish tastes best right after cooking, so time frying and garnishing just before serving.

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Garnishes

Simple garnishes such as chopped green onions, thin slices of fresh red chili, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add both color and flavor contrast, enhancing the overall appeal of the dish.

Side Dishes

Serve Salt and Pepper Shrimp alongside steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp Asian-inspired slaw to balance the richness and bring a refreshing crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the shrimp in a banana leaf basket or a bed of fresh lettuce leaves, allowing guests to enjoy them as handheld bites. Pairing with small dipping bowls of soy sauce or chili oil adds an interactive flavor boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Salt and Pepper Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the shrimp separate from any sauce to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to one month, but for the crispiest results, freeze uncooked, coated shrimp arranged in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a sealed bag.

Reheating

Reheat leftover shrimp in a hot oven or air fryer to restore the crispiness—avoid microwaving as it tends to make shrimp rubbery and soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Salt and Pepper Shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to achieve the best crispy texture.

What oil is best for frying Salt and Pepper Shrimp?

Neutral oils with a high smoke point such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil work best for frying shrimp evenly without burning.

How spicy is Salt and Pepper Shrimp traditionally?

It has a mild to medium spice level that you can easily adjust by adding more or less chili to suit your heat preference.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be when you substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free flour option like rice flour or use certified gluten-free cornstarch.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?

Baking won’t achieve the same crunchy texture; shallow frying is recommended for authentic crispiness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about mastering Salt and Pepper Shrimp at home—a dish that’s simple, fast, and packed with unforgettable flavor and crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe delivers every time. So go ahead, give it a try and watch as it becomes your new seafood favorite!

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