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Jerk Shrimp Skillet with Lime and Cilantro Recipe

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4.2 from 9 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This vibrant Jerk Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty homemade jerk marinade, then quickly seared in a hot skillet to achieve a perfect char and juicy interior. Served with a tangy pan sauce and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, this dish bursts with bold Caribbean flavors in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Marinade

  • 1.5 lbs large shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count, peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
  • ½ cup jerk marinade (from homemade Jerk Marinade Recipe)

For Cooking and Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lime wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro or scallions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: Make a batch of homemade jerk marinade and set aside about ½ cup for the shrimp. Reserve the rest for use as a pan sauce or save it for another time; it keeps refrigerated for up to one week, or can be frozen.
  2. Marinate the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a bowl. Add ½ cup of the jerk marinade, tossing gently to coat all shrimp evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the shrimp for 15 to 30 minutes, but avoid marinating longer than 30 minutes to prevent the citrus and vinegar from breaking down the shrimp’s texture.
  3. Heat the skillet: Warm a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and allow it to heat thoroughly until shimmering.
  4. Cook the shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid, and place them in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook for 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and develop slightly charred edges. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid crowding the pan and ensure even searing. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Prepare the pan sauce (optional): After removing the cooked shrimp from the skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 to 4 tablespoons of the reserved jerk marinade to the pan. Allow it to bubble and reduce for 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens into a glaze-like consistency. Spoon this flavorful sauce over the shrimp just before serving.
  6. Serve and garnish: Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or scallions. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp to add a bright, zesty finish.

Notes

  • Do not marinate the shrimp for longer than 30 minutes to prevent mushy texture due to the acidic marinade.
  • Use a heavy skillet like cast iron to achieve a better sear and char on the shrimp.
  • The pan sauce is optional but adds an intense layer of flavor and should not be skipped if possible.
  • This recipe works best with fresh or thoroughly thawed shrimp for optimal texture.
  • Serve the jerk shrimp immediately for best taste and texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Caribbean

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/jerk-shrimp-skillet-with-lime-and-cilantro-recipe/