Name: Shrimp Street Corn Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lime, zest only; 1.5 tsp chipotle chili powder (plus more for serving); 2 tsp kosher salt (divided); 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 3 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided); 2 (10-oz.) bags frozen corn kernels, thawed; 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped; 2 scallions, thinly sliced (green and white parts separated); 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1/3 cup water; 3 Tbsp crumbled cotija; 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro; 8 corn tortillas, warmed

Introduction to Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

When it comes to quick and delicious meals, the Shrimp Street Corn Skillet stands out as a vibrant option that combines fresh, bold flavors with ease of preparation. This one-pan dish requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum satisfaction, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner after a long day. It’s a delightful way to enjoy mealtime with friends or family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why Choose Shrimp Street Corn Skillet for Your Dinner?

Flavor Explosion: Imagine juicy shrimp flavored with lime and chipotle chili powder, combined with sweet corn, jalapeños, and a creamy sauce. Each bite offers a taste of summer, reminiscent of vibrant street food from Mexico.
Quick to Make: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy professionals. Prep it in less than 10 minutes and let the skillet do the rest.
Versatile Dining: Serve it as a satisfying main dish or as a hearty side. Pair with warm corn tortillas and you have a complete meal.

If you’re looking for a fresh culinary adventure that’s simple to prepare, look no further than this Shrimp Street Corn Skillet recipe. Ready to make your taste buds dance? Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Essential Ingredients for the Skillet

Creating a delightful Shrimp Street Corn Skillet starts with some essential ingredients that pack a punch in flavor:

1 lb. medium shrimp: Peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
Zest of 1 lime: This adds a vibrant, refreshing flavor.
1 ½ tsp. chipotle chili powder: To bring that smoky heat.
2 tsp. kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
¼ cup fresh lime juice: Adds tanginess to balance out the sweetness of the corn.
¼ cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy texture.
¼ cup sour cream: Enhances richness.

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

Take your skillet to the next level with these optional ingredients:

2 (10-oz.) bags frozen corn kernels: For that slightly sweet crunch.
1 jalapeño: Adds a bit more heat, if desired.
Crumbled cotija cheese: A sprinkle of this cheese gives a salty finish.
Fresh cilantro: Offers a fresh herbal note that complements the dish beautifully.
Scallions: Adds a mild onion flavor and brightness.

Want to explore more on seasoning and cooking techniques? Check out Serious Eats for expert tips that can further elevate your culinary skills!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Creating a delicious Shrimp Street Corn Skillet is easier than you might think! Follow these steps for a quick and satisfying meal that will impress your friends and family.

Prepare the Shrimp and Crema

Start off by prepping your shrimp. In a medium bowl, toss 1 pound of medium shrimp, which you've already peeled and deveined, with the zest of one lime, 1 ½ tsp of chipotle chili powder, and 1 tsp of kosher salt. This adds tons of flavor right from the get-go. While you’re at it, whip up a tasty crema! In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of fresh lime juice, ¼ cup of mayonnaise, and ¼ cup of sour cream. Mix until smooth and set it aside—it’s the perfect complement to your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet.

Sauté the Corn Mixture

Next, it's time to cook up that vibrant corn mixture. Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add two thawed 10-ounce bags of corn kernels in a single layer and season with ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook this undisturbed for about 5 minutes to let it get a bit golden. Then, add 1 finely chopped jalapeño and the white parts of 2 sliced scallions. Stir occasionally for another 3 minutes until softened, followed by 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking until fragrant (around 1 minute more). Deglaze the pan with ⅓ cup of water, scraping up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Cook the Shrimp

Once your corn is sautéed to perfection, push the mixture to one side of the skillet. Add 1 tablespoon of butter into the open space and let it melt. Now, toss in your seasoned shrimp. No worries if they overlap a bit; they’ll still cook evenly! Cook the shrimp for about 3 to 4 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they turn a lovely shade of pink and are fully cooked. Then, stir everything together for a unified flavor explosion.

Combine Everything in the Skillet

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in ½ cup of your reserved crema. This little addition takes your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet to the next level. Top it off with 3 tablespoons of crumbled cotija cheese, freshly chopped cilantro, the green parts of the scallions, and a sprinkle of chipotle chili powder for that extra kick.

Serve with Toppings

Finally, it’s time to dig in! Serve up your vibrant Shrimp Street Corn Skillet with some warmed corn tortillas on the side and a dollop of the remaining crema. Enjoy with friends or family—this diverse and colorful dish is perfect for sharing!

For more delicious inspirations, check out this guide on cooking with seafood to make sure you're choosing sustainable options!

Variations on Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Add Veggies for a Colorful Twist

Want to make your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet even more vibrant? Consider adding a medley of colorful bell peppers or diced zucchini. These veggies not only bring a splash of color but also boost the nutritional profile! Toss them in alongside the corn for a delightful crunch. If you're keen on experimenting, try some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness that complements the savory shrimp beautifully. Eating vibrant meals can brighten your day—who doesn’t love a dish that looks as good as it tastes?

Switch Proteins for a Different Experience

Feel like mixing things up? You can easily substitute shrimp with other proteins for a new spin on this dish. Grilled chicken or sautéed turkey bacon can bring a heartier texture to your skillet. If you’re in the mood for a vegetarian option, try replacing shrimp with chickpeas or black beans. These alternatives not only add protein but also a nice flavor profile. Each variation gives you a fresh take on the classic Shrimp Street Corn Skillet, making it a fun recipe to revisit!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Ensuring shrimp is perfectly cooked

To get your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet just right, focus on the shrimp! Look for a vibrant pink color, which indicates they’re fully cooked. A helpful tip? Cook shrimp for about 3-4 minutes total, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. If you're unsure, a quick poke can help—if they’re firm to the touch, they’re ready!

Achieving creamy texture in crema

For that velvety crema that ties this dish together, blending equal parts mayo and sour cream works wonders. A splash of lime juice adds brightness, balancing the richness. If you’d like it a bit looser, mix in a teaspoon of water or additional lime juice. Don't skimp on the zest! Adding lime zest enhances flavor and gives the crema an alluring aroma.

By following these tips, your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet will be a flavorful hit! For more culinary insights, check out this [guide on cooking shrimp perfectly](https://www seafoodingredients.com/how-to-cook-shrimp/).

Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Perfect Sides to Accompany the Dish

To elevate your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet experience, consider these delightful side dishes:

Fresh Avocado Salad: The creamy texture of avocado pairs beautifully with the flavors of the skillet.
Cilantro-Lime Rice: This fragrant side adds a zesty touch that complements the dish perfectly.
Simple Black Beans: Add a protein-packed option that harmonizes with the sweet corn and spicy shrimp.

These sides not only enhance flavors but also provide a well-rounded meal!

Creative Ways to Serve

Make your dining experience fun and interactive! Here are some creative serving suggestions for your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet:

Taco Bar: Lay out warm corn tortillas, the shrimp mixture, and toppings like additional crema, lime wedges, and chopped cilantro, allowing guests to build their own tacos.
Garnish Generously: Top with extra crumbled cotija and a sprinkle of chipotle for those who crave more spice.
Skillet Presentation: Serve the dish directly from the skillet for a rustic, homey vibe that encourages sharing.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Presentation matters, and your guests will love getting involved. For more inspiration on Mexican-inspired meals, check out this avocado salad recipe.

Time Breakdown for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Preparation Time

Getting your ingredients ready is a breeze with only 10 minutes needed. This quick prep makes it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Simply toss your shrimp with lime zest and seasonings and mix up the creamy sauce while you’re at it.

Cooking Time

The cooking process takes about 20 minutes. From sautéing the corn to perfectly cooking the shrimp, every minute in the skillet enhances those vibrant flavors that define this Shrimp Street Corn Skillet.

Total Time

In just 30 minutes, you'll have a delicious dish on the table that impresses without overwhelming you. Perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in, this Shrimp Street Corn Skillet is sure to be a hit!

If you're curious about more quick recipes, check out Delish for a myriad of flavorful ideas! The beauty of dishes like this lies in their convenience and bold taste, making meal prep feel like a joy rather than a chore.

Nutritional Facts for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Calories per serving

This mouthwatering Shrimp Street Corn Skillet packs in approximately 605 calories per serving. It’s a flavorful dish that balances a hearty meal with tasty ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Breakdown of macronutrients

For a healthier option, here’s a quick look at the macronutrient profile per serving:

Protein: 30g — Thanks to the shrimp, this dish provides a solid protein boost.
Fat: 36g — The blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and butter adds richness.
Carbohydrates: 40g — The corn and tortillas contribute to the satisfying carb count.

This Shrimp Street Corn Skillet not only tastes fantastic but also offers a well-rounded balance of nutrients. It's a perfect pick for those looking to indulge without sacrificing their nutritional goals. Want to learn more about the nutritional benefits of shrimp? Check out the Nutritional Guidelines from the American Heart Association.

FAQs about Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

What can I use instead of shrimp?

If shrimp isn’t your thing or you're looking for a different protein, there are plenty of alternatives! Consider using chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. Both options absorb flavors beautifully, making them perfect for this dish. If you want to keep it seafood-focused, scallops or even pre-cooked crab meat work great too!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep most of the ingredients in advance. Just store the seasoned shrimp and corn separately in the fridge. When it's time to eat, just sauté them together—easy peasy! Although the textures are best when freshly cooked, it still tastes delicious even if made ahead.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Shrimp Street Corn Skillet can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. For more tips on storage, check out FoodSafety.gov to ensure your leftovers stay fresh!

Conclusion on Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

In summary, the Shrimp Street Corn Skillet is not just a dish; it's a vibrant feast for the senses. With juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and zesty crema, this recipe is packed with flavors that’ll impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. It's quick, simple, and perfect for any occasion!