Description
Sweet Chili Garlic Shrimp is a flavorful and quick Asian-inspired dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic and a zesty sweet chili sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an appetizer, this recipe combines a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors with a hint of lime and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 green onions (sliced)
Garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels to remove moisture, then season lightly with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Heat the Oil and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Add the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium, then pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Toss the shrimp gently to coat them fully in the sauce.
- Simmer and Thicken Sauce: Continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly, infusing the shrimp with flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges if desired. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as an appetizer.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a squirt of sriracha or increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute sweet chili sauce with a mixture of honey, rice vinegar, and sriracha if sweet chili sauce is unavailable.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Ensure shrimp are fully cooked but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
