SUMMER SHRIMP with Bell Peppers, Garlic, and easy Sweet Chili Sauce

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if you haven’t already. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps them cook evenly. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Sauté the Bell Peppers

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and sauté them for 3-4 minutes, until they’re slightly softened but still crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once cooked, remove the peppers from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Sauce

Once the shrimp are cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then, pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Stir to combine, coating the shrimp and bell peppers with the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the shrimp and peppers in a glossy finish.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the sautéed bell peppers to the skillet with the shrimp and toss everything together gently, so the peppers are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice, if desired.

Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. If you like a bit more heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this flavorful dish over steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal. It’s also delicious served in soft tortillas for shrimp tacos or simply enjoyed as is with a side salad.

Why This Dish Is So Special:

1. Perfectly Balanced Sauce: The sweet chili sauce is the star of this recipe. It brings a perfect balance of sweetness with a hint of heat, making it the perfect accompaniment to the shrimp. Soy sauce adds a savory umami note, and lime juice brings in a bright, tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
2. Vibrant, Seasonal Ingredients: The colorful bell peppers add not just flavor but also a burst of nutrition, packing in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Combined with shrimp, which are a lean source of protein, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
3. Customizable Heat: If you enjoy a little extra spice, you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or use a spicier sweet chili sauce to kick things up a notch.
4. Great for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for a delicious lunch the next day. You can also double the recipe to have extra servings on hand for busy days.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can turn rubbery if overcooked. Be sure to watch them carefully, and once they’ve turned pink and opaque, remove them from the heat right away.
• Use Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice makes all the difference in the flavor of the sauce. If you don’t have fresh limes on hand, you can use bottled lime juice, but fresh is always best for that tangy kick.
• Feel Free to Experiment: This dish is incredibly versatile. You can swap out the bell peppers for other vegetables like zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms. You can also add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy variation or a handful of spinach for extra greens.
• Garnish for Extra Flavor: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the sweet chili sauce. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great alternative, or you could skip it altogether if you prefer a more neutral flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the shrimp and bell pepper mixture over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce. The grains will absorb the sweet and savory flavors, making each bite even more satisfying.
• As Shrimp Tacos: For a fun twist, serve the shrimp and peppers in soft tortillas with a drizzle of extra sweet chili sauce, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of cilantro for shrimp tacos.
• Side Salad: Pair this dish with a light side salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the shrimp and sweet chili sauce.
• As Part of a Feast: This dish is great for a larger meal with other grilled or roasted vegetables, a light appetizer, and refreshing drinks.

Conclusion:

Summer Shrimp with Bell Peppers, Garlic, and Easy Sweet Chili Sauce is a flavorful, quick, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for hot weather. The combination of sweet chili sauce, fresh vegetables, and succulent shrimp creates a meal that’s both easy to make and full of vibrant flavors. Whether you serve it as a main or a side, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your summer cooking rotation. So, get your skillet ready, and let the bright, bold flavors take center stage!