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A close-up of vibrant shrimp coated in a green chimichurri sauce, served with toasted bread on a white plate.
Reda

Zesty Garlic Shrimp with Vibrant Chimichurri Sauce

This vibrant dish features plump, perfectly cooked shrimp tossed in a robust and herbaceous chimichurri sauce, offering a burst of fresh flavors that will transport your taste buds to Argentina.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Latin American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chimichurri Sauce
  • 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley tightly packed, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves tightly packed
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or more, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
For the Garlic Shrimp
  • 1.5 lbs large shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on or off
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice optional, for finishing

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan
  • Tongs

Method
 

Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
  1. In a food processor, combine the parsley, oregano, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Pulse several times until finely chopped but not puréed. Alternatively, finely chop all herbs and garlic by hand.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl. Slowly whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp very dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  3. Remove the skillet from the heat. If using, drizzle with fresh lime juice.
Assemble and Serve
  1. Immediately transfer the hot shrimp to a clean large mixing bowl. Add about 1/2 cup of the prepared chimichurri sauce to the shrimp and toss gently to coat evenly. Reserve the remaining chimichurri for serving.
  2. Serve the shrimp with chimichurri sauce immediately, garnished with extra fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

For best flavor, make the chimichurri sauce at least 30 minutes in advance, or even a few hours. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.