Quick and Easy Salsa Verde Shrimp

Quick and easy salsa verde shrimp is a one skillet dinner made with shrimp, salsa verde, onions and cilantro served over rice.  

I love a quick and easy dinner. This recipe combines the convenience of store-bought salsa verde with succulent shrimp to create a dish that’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor.

Salsa verde, a vibrant and tangy green sauce made from tomatillos, chiles, onions, and cilantro, is a versatile sauce that can elevate any dish. One delightful way to utilize store-bought salsa verde is by cooking up this mouthwatering dish of salsa verde shrimp.

By using store-bought salsa verde and following these easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends. So grab your skillet and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this quick and easy recipe!

Here’s how you can whip up this delectable delight in no time.

What is Salsa Verde?

Salsa verde, the magical green condiment which must be present on all your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex foods! The literal translation for salsa verde is literally “green sauce.”

A basic salsa verde is typically made using tomatillos, onion, either fresh green jalapeños or fresh green serrano chilies (each pepper giving the salsa a different taste and heat level), onion, cilantro and salt. There are other variations, but these are the most common ingredients used when making salsa verde.

Like other salsas, salsa verde is a very popular condiment on tacos, quesadillas, burritos, gorditas, sopes, tamales. It’s also used as an ingredient for cooking enchiladas, chilaquiles and for stewing meats and vegetables. 

Tips on Purchasing Shrimp

When it comes to selecting shrimp for your salsa verde shrimp dish, freshness is key. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild, briny scent.

The shrimp should have a translucent appearance with a pink hue. Avoid shrimp that appear dull or discolored.

Depending on your preference and recipe requirements, choose the shrimp size that suits your dish. Larger shrimp tend to be meatier and more flavorful, while smaller ones cook faster.

When buying frozen shrimp, choose those that are individually quick frozen (IQF) to ensure freshness and prevent clumping.

Whenever possible, choose sustainably sourced shrimp to support responsible fishing practices and protect the environment.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED TO MAKE SALSA VERDE SHRIMP:

2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, finely diced

2 cups salsa verde

steamed rice

HOW TO MAKE SALSA VERDE SHRIMP

Prep the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, stir to combine.

In a large skillet heat oil over medium-high heat, add diced onion, sauté until light and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.

Once the shrimp is cooked through, pour the salsa verde into the skillet, stirring gently to coat the shrimp evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced avocado if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice, quinoa, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.

Tips on Sautéing Shrimp

Sautéing shrimp is a quick and straightforward cooking method that preserves their delicate flavor and texture. Follow these tips for perfectly cooked shrimp every time.

Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil or butter.

Season the shrimp before adding to pan with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, such as paprika or garlic powder.

Use a hot skillet and refrain from overcrowding the pan to ensure that the shrimp cook evenly and develop a golden crust, flipping halfway through.

Avoid overcooking the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery. Shrimp cook quickly and are done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

This recipe was featured on the Sweet Texas 1015 site. 

Print

Quick and Easy Salsa Verde Shrimp

Author: Vianney Rodriguez

Ingredients

• 2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 cups salsa verde
• steamed rice, quinoa or warm tortillas
• 1 cup cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Prep the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, stir to combine.
2. In a large skillet heat oil over medium-high heat, add diced onion, sauté until light and translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Once the shrimp is cooked through, pour the salsa verde into the skillet, stirring gently to coat the shrimp evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced avocado if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice, quinoa, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.

Recipe Notes

Serves 4