How to Make Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Fast

If you’re craving a quick, bold, and utterly satisfying dish, look no further than Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of heat, savory saltiness, and a crisp peppery kick that makes each bite irresistible. Best of all, it’s fast and straightforward to prepare, letting you enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right at home whenever hunger strikes. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a last-minute gathering, Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp is your go-to for a burst of zest and freshness with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy prep: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Bold and balanced flavors: The perfect combination of spicy heat and savory salt enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp.
• Simple ingredients: Uses common pantry staples that come together for an extraordinary taste.
• Versatile dish: Works equally well as an appetizer, main course, or snack.
• Crowd-pleaser: A favorite for family dinners, casual parties, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These essential ingredients come together quickly to build the perfect Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp. Each item plays a crucial role in delivering texture, heat, and deep flavor without complicated prep.

• Shrimp: Fresh or thawed medium-size shrimp are best for quick cooking and tenderness.
• Salt: Enhances the natural flavor and balances the spices.
• Black pepper: Gives a sharp, pungent kick that defines this recipe’s character.
• Red chili flakes or fresh chili: Adds vibrant heat and spice.
• Garlic: Imparts a fragrant, savory base note that intensifies the taste.
• Green onions: Adds color and mild onion flavor to brighten the dish.
• Oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying and crispiness.
• Cornstarch or flour: Creates a light coating for excellent texture and to hold the seasoning.

Variations for Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Feel free to tweak this recipe based on your preferences or whatever you have in your kitchen. It’s super easy to customize and still deliver delicious results.

• Mild version: Reduce or omit chili flakes for a gentler heat that’s still packed with flavor.
• Herb twist: Add fresh cilantro or basil to introduce fresh herbal notes.
• Extra crunch: Toss in toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for texture.
• Vegan adaptation: Substitute shrimp with crispy tofu or cauliflower florets for a plant-based twist.
• Citrus flair: Finish with a squeeze of lime or lemon juice for a bright, zesty touch.

How to Make Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t pre-cleaned. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear and avoid excess moisture that makes frying soggy.

Step 2: Season and Coat

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, black pepper, red chili flakes, and a little cornstarch or flour. This coating locks in seasoning and delivers a crispy exterior when cooked.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat a neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola, over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. The right temperature is key to achieve a golden, crispy shell on your shrimp.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, with a delicious crisp on the outside.

Step 5: Garlic and Green Onions

Quickly sauté minced garlic and sliced green onions in the hot pan for 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant, then toss the shrimp back in to infuse flavors.

Step 6: Final Toss and Serve

Toss everything together for a final mix, sprinkle a bit more black pepper or chili flakes if desired, then serve immediately for best texture and taste!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Dry shrimp well: Ensures crispiness by preventing oil splatter and sogginess.
• High heat cooking: Quick searing locks in moisture and prevents overcooking.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly cracked pepper and chili flakes amplify aroma and spice level.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in batches if needed to maintain even heat and crispness.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy right away for peak crunch and flavor; shrimp tend to lose texture when left to sit.

How to Serve Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Garnishes

Top off with finely sliced green onions, freshly chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to add freshness and texture that complement the heat.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or a crunchy Asian cucumber salad to balance the spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shrimp in lettuce cups for a fun bite-sized appetizer, or pile on a colorful platter with wedges of lime for squeezable zest and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover shrimp in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. Shrimp are best enjoyed fresh but keep well chilled.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp in a sealed container or freezer bag with all seasoning. They keep well for up to a month but may lose some crispness.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to refresh the crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make shrimp rubbery and lose texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking to achieve the best crispy texture.

How spicy is Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp?

The heat level depends on the amount of chili flakes or fresh chili you add, so you can easily adjust it to your preference, from mild to fiery.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use cornstarch instead of flour for the coating, the recipe can easily be gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time for a party?

It’s best served fresh, but if needed, cook the shrimp beforehand and reheat quickly in a hot pan just before serving to revive crispiness.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh shrimp?

You could substitute with scallops or firm fish fillets cut into bite-size pieces, adjusting cooking times accordingly for even doneness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering what quick dish can explode with flavor and make your tastebuds jump for joy, give Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp a try. This simple recipe brings together fiery heat, satisfying crunch, and savory goodness in a flash — perfect for busy days or anytime you want a meal that feels special without the hassle. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be a fast favorite you’ll revisit again and again.

Related Posts

• Easy Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins Recipe
• Easy Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipes to Try
• How to Make Crispy Fried Cornbread Perfectly

Print