There's something about the heat of a good spicy shrimp dish that makes it irresistible.

Whether you're looking for a quick snack, a flavorful addition to your dinner, or something that'll spice up your next get-together, spicy shrimp is the perfect dish to satisfy those cravings.

Let's break down how to make this deliciously fiery seafood in a few easy steps!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients. You don't need a lot, just the essentials that will bring the heat and the flavor:

Shrimp – The star of the dish, about 1 lb (peeled and deveined).

Olive Oil – For sautéing the shrimp.

Garlic – Freshly minced for a punch of flavor.

Chili Flakes – The main source of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.

Paprika – Adds depth and a mild smoky flavor.

Lemon Juice – To balance the heat with a refreshing zest.

Fresh Parsley – For garnish and a touch of freshness.

Salt and Pepper – To taste.

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking process.

Prepare the Shrimp

Shrimp cook fast, so preparation is key. Here's how to get them ready for the pan:

Peel and Devein – If you haven't bought pre-cleaned shrimp, make sure to peel the shell off and remove the vein. This might take a few extra minutes, but it ensures a cleaner bite.

Pat Dry – After cleaning, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the shrimp sear nicely when cooked.

Tip: If you like your shrimp extra crispy, give them an additional light dusting of cornstarch before cooking. This will add an extra crunch!

Cook the Shrimp

Now that everything is prepped, let's cook! This is where the magic happens:

Heat the Oil – In a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.

Sauté Garlic – Add the minced garlic to the pan, stirring it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Add the Shrimp – Toss in the shrimp, spreading them out in a single layer so they cook evenly. Don't overcrowd the pan! Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink.

Flip and Spice – Flip the shrimp and sprinkle in the chili flakes and paprika. Squeeze in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Let the shrimp cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked.

Tip: Don't overcook your shrimp. They cook quickly, and the moment they curl up and turn opaque, they're done.

Garnish and Serve

Once your shrimp are cooked to perfection, it's time to plate them up:

Garnish – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add more lemon juice if you like an extra zing.

Serve – Serve the shrimp on a bed of rice, with a side of roasted veggies, or just as an appetizer with a cooling dip like sour cream or yogurt.

Tip: For an added flair, drizzle a little extra olive oil or a hot sauce of your choice for more spice!

Why You'll Love This Dish

This spicy shrimp recipe packs a punch without being overly complicated. The combination of garlic, paprika, and chili flakes creates a well-balanced heat that isn't overwhelming. Plus, shrimp cooks so quickly, making it the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a last-minute party dish. The zesty lemon and fresh parsley bring everything together, balancing the spice and giving the dish a refreshing finish.

Spicy shrimp is more than just a meal; it's an experience. The heat builds with every bite, and it's hard not to go back for more. So next time you want something flavorful with a kick, give this recipe a try and watch it become your go-to spicy shrimp dish!