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

Introduction to Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients? Shrimp Street Corn Skillet is not just another meal; it’s an experience that transports your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico. This one-pan wonder combines succulent shrimp with sweet corn, jalapeños, and a zesty crema, creating a culinary delight that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.

Why Shrimp Street Corn Skillet Is the Perfect Homemade Meal?

Whether you're cooking for yourself after a long day or entertaining friends on the weekend, this skillet dish showcases versatility. You only need minimal prep and cook time—perfect for busy young professionals. The shrimp delivers lean protein, while corn provides a satisfying sweetness along with a dose of fiber. Plus, the chipotle chili powder adds a delightful kick, making this dish a sensational fusion of flavors.

Pair it with warm corn tortillas for a fun, casual meal that feels gourmet. If you're intrigued and want to explore more variations, you might enjoy checking out Cooking Light for nutritious ideas that fit a busy lifestyle. So, let’s dive into this vibrant and easy-to-make Shrimp Street Corn Skillet!

Ingredients for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

When you're ready to whip up a vibrant and delicious Shrimp Street Corn Skillet, gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor. Here’s what you'll need:

1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
Zest of 1 lime
1 ½ tsp. chipotle chili powder, plus more for serving
2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
¼ cup fresh lime juice
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ 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 garlic cloves, finely chopped
⅓ cup water
3 Tbsp. crumbled cotija cheese
2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh cilantro
8 corn tortillas, warmed

You’ll find that each ingredient brings something special to the table, creating a delightful mélange of flavor and texture. If corn on the cob is more your style, check out this great article for creative ideas! With this checklist handy, you’re set to create a dish that brings the street food feel right to your kitchen. Enjoy the cooking!

Preparing Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Cooking can be both an art and a science, and nothing embodies that more than a delicious Shrimp Street Corn Skillet. This vibrant dish incorporates fresh shrimp, sweet corn, and a flavorful crema, making it a perfect choice for a weekday dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s walk through the steps to bring this culinary delight to life!

Marinate the shrimp

Start by bringing a medium bowl into your kitchen workspace. Toss your 1 pound of peeled and deveined medium shrimp with the zest of one lime, 1.5 teaspoons of chipotle chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. This marinade not only flavors the shrimp but also infuses them with a vibrant zestiness that compliments the dish beautifully. Let the shrimp marinate while you prepare the next steps—this allows the flavors to meld perfectly, kicking off your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet with a bang!

Sauté the corn mixture

Now, grab a large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (because who can resist butter?). Once melted, add in your two bags of thawed frozen corn kernels, spreading them in an even layer across the skillet. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of salt over the corn and cook for about 5 minutes. Avoid stirring during this time; you want that delightful caramelization! Next, add a chopped jalapeño and the white parts of your scallions. Sauté these for 3 more minutes, then stir in 3 chopped garlic cloves. This combination creates the perfect base for your skillet dish.

Cook the shrimp

Push the corn mixture to one side of your skillet and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the empty space. Once melted, introduce your marinated shrimp into the pan—let them overlap slightly; they don’t mind each other's company! Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning halfway through until the shrimp turn a lovely pink. Toss everything together, allowing the flavors to mingle and create a culinary masterpiece.

Combine and finish the dish

With the shrimp cooked through, remove your skillet from the heat. Spoon in about ½ cup of your reserved crema (which you set aside earlier), and gently fold everything together. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of crumbled cotija cheese and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh cilantro on top, adding an excellent touch of creaminess and herbaceous freshness. Also, for a flavorful finish, add the green parts of the scallions and a dash more chipotle chili powder.

Prepare the accompanying crema

Finally, let’s whip up that delicious crema that ties the dish together. In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of sour cream, and ¼ cup of fresh lime juice. This tangy topping adds a refreshing contrast to your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet and is perfect for drizzling over your warm tortillas.

And voilà! You’re ready to serve your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet—a colorful, flavorful feast that’s sure to impress! Don't forget to warm your tortillas to enjoy the full experience. Happy cooking!

Variations on Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Spicy Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

If you're craving some heat, turn up the intensity with a spicy shrimp street corn skillet. Simply add diced serrano or habanero peppers along with the jalapeño for an extra kick. You can also mix in some Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce into the crema to balance the creaminess with spice. This variation is perfect for those who love bold flavors!

Vegetarian Street Corn Skillet

For a wholesome, meat-free option, try a vegetarian street corn skillet by substituting shrimp with crispy black beans or grilled zucchini. You can amp up the flavor by adding smoked paprika and tossing in some hearts of palm or mushrooms. This variation showcases vibrant veggies while still delivering that delicious street corn vibe—healthy and satisfying!

Explore more exciting variations to cater to your taste buds! Check out resources like Serious Eats for more inspiration.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Creating the perfect Shrimp Street Corn Skillet is all about balancing flavors and getting that delightful char on your corn. Here are some handy tips:

Frozen Corn: Using frozen corn saves time and retains sweetness. Ensure it’s thawed for even cooking. Fresh corn can also be a great option if it’s in season!
Don’t Rush the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp until they’re just pink and opaque—overcooking can lead to rubbery textures. It’s a good idea to measure the cooking time closely.
Customization: Feel free to adjust the heat! If you're unsure about the spice level, start with less chipotle chili powder and add more to taste.

Check out these healthy cooking tips from Mayo Clinic for more ideas!

Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

When it comes to serving your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet, the options are abundant! Firstly, pair it with warm, soft corn tortillas to create delightful little tacos. They provide a perfect vessel for the scrumptious shrimp and corn mixture. For added flair, drizzle some reserved crema on top for a slight tanginess that enhances the dish.

Consider rounding out your meal with a fresh side salad—think chopped romaine, diced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a zesty lime vinaigrette. And don't forget to offer extra lime wedges; a squeeze of lime truly brightens the flavors! If you're in the mood for a drink, a refreshing non-alcoholic limeade would be a great accompaniment. For more vibrant accompaniments, explore ideas on Simply Recipes and discover unique twists!

Experimenting with these serving suggestions can turn your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet into a festive culinary experience, perfect for any casual get-together or weeknight dinner. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Preparation Time

To kick things off, you'll want to set aside about 10 minutes for preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients, marinating the shrimp, and chopping up the fresh veggies to enhance the flavors in your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet.

Cooking Time

Once you’re prepped and ready, the actual cooking time is approximately 20 minutes. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together, allowing for a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a last-minute gathering with friends—this flavorful dish will impress without consuming your entire evening!

For more quick recipes, check out some of my favorites, like Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Pasta or Gyros Smash Tacos. You'll definitely find something that fits your schedule and taste!

Nutritional Facts for Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Calories

A serving of Shrimp Street Corn Skillet generally contains around 350 calories, making it a satisfying meal without going overboard. This is great for those who are mindful of their daily calorie intake!

Protein

Packed with protein, this dish delivers approximately 25 grams per serving. The medium shrimp can be a fantastic source of lean protein, perfect for building muscle or maintaining a healthy diet.

Sodium

Keep an eye on the sodium content, as this recipe has about 800 milligrams per serving. Using fresh ingredients and controlling the salt can help you customize the dish to fit your dietary needs.

For more insights on shrimp's nutritional benefits, check out Healthline's article on the subject. Happy cooking!

FAQs about Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?

Absolutely! If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it for grilled chicken, crispy tofu, or even beef. Each option will offer a unique twist to your Shrimp Street Corn Skillet, so feel free to get creative based on your taste and dietary preferences.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Transforming this dish into a vegetarian delight is simple. Just omit the shrimp and add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even black beans. You could also include a hearty grain like quinoa for added protein. With the vibrant flavors of corn and spices, you won't miss the shrimp!

What sides pair well with Shrimp Street Corn Skillet?

For sides, think light and refreshing! A zesty avocado salad or a cool cucumber salad complements the flavors beautifully. If you're looking for something heartier, consider serving it alongside cilantro lime rice or a simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette. Explore even more side dish ideas here!

Conclusion on Shrimp Street Corn Skillet

In summary, the Shrimp Street Corn Skillet is a delightful blend of flavors that elevates any weeknight dinner. It’s quick to prepare and bursting with freshness—perfect for busy young professionals. Serve it with warm tortillas and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite. Don't forget to explore more delicious recipes to keep your meals exciting!