Garlic Paprika Shrimp Skillet (Printable Version)

Quick 20-minute skillet featuring succulent shrimp with garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs for an effortless Mediterranean meal.

# What You Need:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

02 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 1 lemon, cut into wedges

→ Oils & Fats

06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Spices

07 - 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
08 - ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
09 - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
10 - ½ teaspoon sea salt
11 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How to Make It:

01 - Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels and set aside. Removing excess moisture ensures proper searing.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
03 - Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the hot oil. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened, stirring occasionally to prevent garlic from burning.
04 - Sprinkle smoked paprika, sweet paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes into the skillet. Stir well to coat the vegetables and infuse the oil with the spices.
05 - Arrange shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque throughout. Do not overcook.
06 - Remove skillet from heat immediately. Stir in chopped parsley until evenly distributed.
07 - Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under twenty minutes but tastes like something from a proper Mediterranean restaurant
  • The smoky paprika and bright parsley create this incredible depth that makes people ask whats in it
  • Everything happens in one pan so cleanup is practically nonexistent
02 -
  • Dry shrimp are crucial for getting that beautiful sear instead of a rubbery boiled texture
  • The garlic can burn quickly so keep it moving once it hits the hot oil
  • Overcooked shrimp become tough so watch closely and remove from heat as soon as they turn opaque
03 -
  • Buy shrimp thats already peeled and deveined to save precious time
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully in a warm skillet for about 2 minutes
  • The flavors actually get better after sitting for a few hours

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