If you’re craving a vibrant and spicy shrimp dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Blackened Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa recipe. Combining smoky, seasoned shrimp with a refreshing and sweet pineapple salsa makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is simple to follow and delivers impressive results.
Ingredients
For the Blackened Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste if you like it less spicy)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pineapple Salsa:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, finely diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- A pinch of salt, to taste
Optional for Serving:
- Warm tortillas (for shrimp tacos)
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Salsa
- Combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Toss well to mix all the flavors. Adjust the salt and lime juice to your taste.
- Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the salsa even more delicious.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks well.
- In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the shrimp in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the shrimp, tossing until they’re evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan to prevent sticking.
- Once the pan is hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cook quickly!
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- To create a stunning presentation, spread the pineapple salsa on a plate or bowl, then top with the blackened shrimp.
- Alternatively, serve the shrimp and salsa with warm tortillas for tacos, or over steamed rice for a hearty meal.
- Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Blackened Shrimp Dish
- Control the heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper and jalapeño to make the dish milder or spicier, depending on your preference.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pineapple and lime juice are key to the bright and zesty salsa. Avoid canned or pre-packaged pineapple for the best results.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re cooking a large batch of shrimp, do it in batches to ensure even cooking and proper charring.
- Prep ahead: You can make the pineapple salsa a day in advance to save time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Grill option: For a smoky outdoor vibe, grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This blackened shrimp recipe is the perfect balance of spicy and sweet. The bold, smoky flavor of the shrimp pairs surprisingly well with the tangy and fresh pineapple salsa, giving you a dish that’s satisfying and refreshing. It’s also incredibly versatile—serve it as tacos, over rice, or even paired with a side salad. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes of cook time, this easy seafood dinner is a winner for any occasion.
Bring a tropical flair to your table and wow your family and friends with this Blackened Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa recipe. Enjoy!
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