Charred Shrimp with Garlic, Chili & Lime
Ingredients
- 1½ poundsshrimp (large, peeled and deveined)
- 6 clovesgarlic
- 1 wholered chili pepper (or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes)
- 2 wholelime
- 4 tablespoonsolive oil
- ½ teaspoonsalt
- ¼ teaspoonblack pepper
- ¼ cupcilantro (optional, for garnish)
Prep
- 01
Mince 6 cloves garlic.
- 02
Thinly slice 1 red chili pepper (remove seeds for less heat, or use red pepper flakes).
- 03
Juice 2 limes and cut remaining lime wedges for serving.
Method
- 01
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke.
- 02
Working in a single layer, add half the shrimp to the hot pan and cook 2 minutes until the underside is deeply charred. Flip and cook 1 minute more until opaque throughout. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining 2 tablespoons oil and the rest of the shrimp.
- 03
Add the minced garlic and sliced chili to the skillet (keep heat high) and cook 30 seconds until fragrant and starting to brown.
- 04
Pour in the lime juice and return the shrimp to the pan. Toss for 1 minute until everything is coated and warmed through.
- 05
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Divide between plates and garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Spice Tips
For a gentler burn, use just a pinch of red pepper flakes. For more heat and depth, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the pan at the end. A splash of fish sauce (1 teaspoon) adds umami and authentic Thai flavor if you have it on hand.