Zesty Shrimp Veracruz
Zesty Shrimp Veracruz is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the coastal cuisine of Veracruz, Mexico. This delightful recipe combines succulent shrimp with a zesty sauce made from fresh jalapeños, onions, garlic, and ripe tomatoes, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. The addition of green olives adds a touch of brininess that perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp. Ideal for serving with a side of fluffy rice or roasted potatoes, this dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Adjust the heat according to your preference by tasting the jalapeños as you cook. For those who prefer a milder flavor, substitute the jalapeños with green bell peppers. Enjoy this dish with fresh avocado salad for a complete meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Canola oil
2 teaspoons (None)
Bay leaf
1 (None)
Medium onion
1 (Halved and thinly sliced)
Jalapeño peppers
2 (Seeded and very thinly sliced)
Garlic cloves
4 (Minced)
Raw shrimp
1 lb (Peeled and deveined (16-20 per pound))
Medium tomatoes
3 (Diced)
Green olives
1/4 cup (Thinly sliced, pitted)
Lime
1 (Cut into 4 wedges)
Instructions
1
In a large nonstick skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the bay leaf and sauté for 1 minute to release its aroma.
2
Add the halved and thinly sliced onion, along with the seeded and thinly sliced jalapeños and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened, about 3 minutes.
3
Stir in the raw shrimp, cover the skillet, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through.
4
Add the diced tomatoes and sliced green olives to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5
Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover it again, and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes are nearly broken down and the flavors meld.
6
Remove the bay leaf from the skillet and serve the dish hot, accompanied by lime wedges for a burst of freshness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Shrimp Veracruz?
Zesty Shrimp Veracruz is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the coastal cuisine of Veracruz, Mexico, featuring succulent shrimp in a zesty tomato-based sauce.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include raw shrimp, canola oil, a bay leaf, medium onion, jalapeo peppers, garlic cloves, medium tomatoes, green olives, and lime.
How much shrimp do I need?
This recipe requires 1 pound of raw shrimp, preferably peeled and deveined with a count of 16-20 per pound.
What size shrimp should I buy?
The recipe recommends using large shrimp, specifically the 16-20 per pound size.
How can I make this dish milder?
To reduce the heat, you can substitute the jalapeo peppers with green bell peppers or ensure all seeds are removed from the jalapeos.
How many jalapeo peppers are used?
The recipe calls for 2 jalapeo peppers, which should be seeded and very thinly sliced.
What kind of oil is recommended for sautéing?
The recipe specifies using 2 teaspoons of canola oil for heating the skillet.
How many garlic cloves are required?
You will need 4 minced garlic cloves to provide a robust flavor to the sauce.
What is the purpose of the bay leaf?
The bay leaf is sautéed in oil at the start to release its aroma and infuse the dish with subtle herbal notes.
How should the onion be prepared?
One medium onion should be halved and then thinly sliced.
How long do I cook the vegetables?
The onion, jalapeos, and garlic should be cooked for about 3 minutes until they are softened.
How long does it take to cook the shrimp?
The shrimp should be cooked covered for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
When do I add the tomatoes and olives?
Add the diced tomatoes and sliced green olives after the shrimp have turned pink.
How long should the dish simmer at the end?
After adding tomatoes and olives, cover and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the flavors meld.
When should the bay leaf be removed?
The bay leaf should be removed from the skillet just before serving the dish hot.
What type of olives are used in Veracruz-style shrimp?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of thinly sliced, pitted green olives for a touch of brininess.
How are the tomatoes prepared?
Three medium tomatoes should be diced before being added to the skillet.
Is this a one-pan recipe?
Yes, this is a one-pan meal prepared entirely in a large nonstick skillet.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served hot with lime wedges, and optionally accompanied by fluffy rice or roasted potatoes.
Can I serve this with a salad?
Yes, a fresh avocado salad is a recommended accompaniment for a complete meal.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a 'healthy eating' recipe, featuring lean protein and fresh vegetables.
How do I adjust the spiciness?
You can adjust the heat by tasting the jalapeos as you cook and adding more or fewer depending on your preference.
What kind of skillet is best for this recipe?
A large nonstick skillet is recommended to prevent the shrimp and vegetables from sticking.
How many tomatoes are needed?
The recipe calls for 3 medium tomatoes.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, with short sautéing and simmering times, it is categorized as a quick recipe.
What gives the dish its coastal flavor profile?
The combination of fresh seafood, tomatoes, and briny green olives creates the signature Veracruz coastal taste.
Should the skillet be covered during cooking?
Yes, the skillet should be covered while cooking the shrimp and during the final simmering of the sauce.
How is the lime used?
One lime is cut into 4 wedges and served on the side to provide a burst of freshness.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, though the recipe specifies raw shrimp; if using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed, peeled, and deveined before cooking.
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The 4 garlic cloves should be minced before being added to the skillet.