Cilantro Basil Shrimp with Mango Salsa
Try this Cilantro Basil Shrimp with Mango Salsa recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Cilantro Basil Shrimp with Mango Salsa recipe, or contribute your own.
- 3/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 garlic cloves
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- cooked rice for serving
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 avocado, pitted and diced
- 3/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves packed
- 1 green onion roughly chopped (green + white parts)
- 4 tbsp. olive oil divided
- 1 1/2 lbs. large shrimp (i used 31/40) deveined and peeled
- 2 ripe mangoes diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper seeded and diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 3 scallions, chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 1 jalapeã±o, seeded and minced
- 2-4 tbsp. fresh lime juice
- Carbohydrate 3.76018375017809 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 27.119745000043 g
- Fiber 0.657449986326935 g
- Protein 0.650356250211697 g
- Saturated Fat 3.73744450000276 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (248g)
- Sodium 3.36275000026882 mg
- Sugar 3.10273376385116 g
- Trans Fat 0.778758375008203 g
- Calories 254 calories
Step-by-step
- In a bowl of a food processor, combine cilantro, basil, green onions, garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is smooth.
- Place the shrimp into a large ziploc bag and pour the marinade, tossing to coat. Marinate in refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- While shrimp is marinating, prepare your salsa.
- Heat a large saute pan over medium/high heat. When pan is hot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and swirl to coat.
- Add shrimp to the pan (I used tongs to remove the shrimp from the bag) and saute for about 3 minutes or until thoroughly cooked.
- Serve over cooked rice with a side of mango salsa.
- In a medium bowl, combine mangoes, avocado, red bell pepper, scallions, cilantro, and jalapeño.
- Drizzle with lime juice, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
- Let stand at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
Cilantro Basil Shrimp with Mango Salsa: A Taste of Sunshine
The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a sun-drenched beach, isn't it? This Cilantro Basil Shrimp with Mango Salsa recipe isn't just about the vibrant flavors; it's about the experience. As a busy professional, I find myself craving quick, flavorful meals that don't sacrifice taste for convenience. This recipe perfectly hits that sweet spot. The preparation is surprisingly straightforward, and the result is a dish bursting with fresh, bright flavors that elevate a simple weeknight dinner into something truly special.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The marinade for the shrimp is quick to whip up, blending the fresh herbs – cilantro and basil – with zesty citrus juices and a touch of garlic. The marinade isn't just a flavor enhancer; it also tenderizes the shrimp, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The mango salsa is the star of the show, a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the shrimp. The combination of sweet mango, creamy avocado, and a hint of spice from the jalapeño creates a symphony of tastes in your mouth. Each bite is a burst of tropical flavors, a perfect escape from the daily grind.
I often find myself making this dish on busy evenings. The prep time is minimal, and the cooking time is even less. It's the kind of recipe that allows me to unwind after a long day, enjoying a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The colorful presentation is an added bonus, transforming a simple dinner into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. It's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a vibrant addition to a weekend brunch. The leftovers are equally delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option.
Beyond the Recipe: This recipe is more than just ingredients and instructions; it's a reminder to savor the little moments. The act of chopping fresh herbs, the satisfying sizzle of the shrimp in the pan, and the vibrant colors of the finished dish – these are the details that add joy to the cooking process. It's a chance to connect with my food, to appreciate the freshness of the ingredients, and to create a meal that nourishes both body and soul. It's a small act of self-care in a busy world, a moment of peace and satisfaction amidst the chaos.
Tips and Variations: Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick, or substitute other fruits like pineapple or peaches for the mango in the salsa. You can also adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the level of spice. The beauty of this dish is its versatility; it adapts easily to your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. Don't be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions: This dish is delightful served with a side of fluffy white rice, which soaks up the delicious flavors of the shrimp and marinade. You could also serve it with quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free option. A simple green salad would also complement the meal beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to the richer flavors of the shrimp and salsa.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that transports you to a tropical paradise, give this Cilantro Basil Shrimp with Mango Salsa recipe a try. I promise, you won't be disappointed. The vibrant colors, the refreshing flavors, and the ease of preparation make it a true winner in my book. And who knows, it might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner too!
