Recipe for Yucatan Shrimp: Easy & Flavorful Guide

If you’re craving a burst of bold, vibrant flavors from the Yucatán Peninsula, this Yucatan shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the zesty and smoky flavors of traditional Mexican spices with succulent, juicy shrimp, this dish brings a fiesta to your plate.

It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or any time you want to impress with an easy yet authentic seafood recipe. The marinade is a beautiful blend of citrus, achiote paste, and aromatic herbs, which transforms simple shrimp into a culinary delight bursting with character.

Whether you serve it with warm tortillas, rice, or a fresh salad, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare and packs a punch of protein with minimal fuss. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with many sides, letting you customize your meal to suit any occasion.

Ready to bring a taste of Yucatán to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. The shrimp are marinated in a vibrant achiote and citrus mixture that infuses them with a uniquely smoky, tangy, and slightly earthy taste.

It’s an authentic homage to Yucatecan cuisine that’s both approachable and impressive.

What makes it stand out:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Authentic flavor: Uses traditional achiote paste and fresh citrus to capture the essence of Yucatán cooking.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish, taco filling, or appetizer.
• Healthy: Shrimp provide lean protein with minimal calories.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons achiote paste (available at Latin markets or online)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for spice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• Warm corn or flour tortillas, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Whisk or fork for mixing marinade
• Large skillet or grill pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Serving platter or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the achiote paste is fully dissolved and the marinade is smooth.
2. Marinate the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat all shrimp evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, but no longer than 1 hour to avoid over-marinating.
3. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. When hot, lightly oil the pan if necessary to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the shrimp: Remove shrimp from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
5. Serve: Transfer cooked shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm with tortillas, rice, or your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

For cleaner hands and less fuss, use pre-peeled and deveined shrimp. If you want an extra smoky flavor, consider finishing the shrimp on a grill rather than a skillet.

Tips:

• Don’t marinate shrimp longer than an hour, as the acidity will start to “cook” the shrimp, making them tough.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level; omit for a milder version.
• Try adding finely chopped fresh jalapeño to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Variations:

• Yucatan shrimp tacos: Add shredded cabbage, pickled red onions, and creamy avocado slices to warm tortillas for a vibrant taco night.
• Grilled shrimp skewers: Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes per side for a fun presentation.
• Seafood salad: Mix cooked shrimp with diced mango, red onion, and cilantro for a refreshing salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Yucatan shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Mexican-inspired meal, serve with warm corn or flour tortillas, a side of rice, and refried beans.

Fresh, crisp slaws like a cabbage lime slaw or a simple Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas add a refreshing crunch.

For something lighter, try serving the shrimp over a bed of leafy greens or alongside grilled vegetables. You can also pair it with a creamy avocado salsa or a tangy mango salsa for a delightful contrast.

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, a squeeze of extra lime juice right before serving brightens everything up perfectly.

Conclusion

This Yucatan shrimp recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, flavorful seafood with minimal effort. The marriage of citrus, achiote, and traditional spices creates a dish that’s both authentic and versatile.

Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, these shrimp will deliver consistently delicious results every time.

Easy to prepare and quick to cook, this recipe fits beautifully into busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste. Plus, the vibrant colors and fresh garnishes make it as beautiful as it is tasty.

Don’t forget to explore other fantastic dishes on our site like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the comforting Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for more culinary inspiration!

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