Name: Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs. large shrimp, raw, deveined and tail off; 1 tbsp. olive oil, light tasting; Chopped parsley, optional for garnishing; 3 tbsps. lime juice; 1 tsp. salt; 2 tsps. fresh ground black pepper; 1 tbsp. chili seasoning (the actual beef chili seasoning, not chili pepper); 1 tsp. paprika; ½ tsp. cumin; 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 tbsp. olive oil, light tasting; 1 small purple onion, diced; 1 large zucchini, halved and sliced; 1 large yellow squash, halved and sliced; 1 large red bell pepper, cubed; 1 tbsp. olive oil, light tasting

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 80 reviews

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Looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and easy weeknight dinner that feels special every time? This Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites because it brings together juicy, seasoned shrimp and a colorful medley of tender-crisp veggies in one pan. It’s a beautiful harmony of zesty lime, smoky paprika, and just the right kick of chili seasoning that makes every bite exciting. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect dish when you want something healthy and delicious without a fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular tray with a black rim holds a layer of raw shrimp coated in a reddish spice mix. The shrimp are spread evenly across the tray, showing a contrast between the grayish raw shrimp and the orange-red seasoning. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, with small bowls nearby containing chopped vegetables and red onion, adding subtle background color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are simple, fresh, and do all the heavy lifting when it comes to flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the bold marinade that livens up the shrimp, to the colorful veggies that add sweetness, crunch, and earthiness.

2 lbs. large shrimp, raw, deveined and tail off: Choose fresh or fully thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
1 tbsp. olive oil, light tasting: Keeps the shrimp tender without overpowering their natural sweetness.
Chopped parsley, optional for garnishing: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and pops of green color at the end.
3 tbsp. lime juice: Essential for bright acidity that balances the smokiness and spice.
1 tsp. salt: Enhances all the flavors without making anything taste salty.
2 tsps. fresh ground black pepper: Adds warmth and subtle heat that complements the chili seasoning.
1 tbsp. chili seasoning: Use authentic beef chili seasoning for a rich and smoky depth.
1 tsp. paprika: Brings a deep red color and gentle smoky flavor.
½ tsp. cumin: Lends an earthy undertone that grounds the marinade beautifully.
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Bursting with savory aroma that infuses the shrimp from the start.
1 tbsp. olive oil, light tasting (for the marinade): Helps the marinade cling perfectly to every shrimp.
1 small purple onion, diced: Adds a slight sweetness and crunch to balance the tender veggies.
1 large zucchini, halved and sliced: Offers a soft texture with a mild, fresh flavor.
1 large yellow squash, halved and sliced: Brightens the skillet with color and subtle sweetness.
1 large red bell pepper, cubed: Brings crispness and a juicy, sweet zing.
1 tbsp. olive oil, light tasting (for cooking veggies): Helps veggies caramelize evenly without weighing them down.

How to Make Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels; this is key for that perfect sear later. Toss the shrimp with the lime juice, salt, black pepper, chili seasoning, paprika, cumin, minced garlic, and olive oil marinade. Make sure each shrimp is generously coated, then set it aside to soak up all those vibrant flavors while you prep your veggies. This little rest time helps the shrimp get juicy and tender, bursting with zest in every bite.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

Wash and dry the zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, and purple onion. Chop and cube them just right— not too thick, so they cook evenly but still hold a satisfying crunch. The variety of colors here not only makes the dish visually irresistible but ensures a range of textures and natural sweetness that balance the smoky, spicy shrimp perfectly.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in your veggies and sauté them gently. Patience here is key; let them soften and develop a golden, slightly caramelized color to unlock their natural sugars. This step is what gives the dish a wonderful depth and keeps each bite lively with vegetable goodness. When they’re just tender and gleaming with a light crust, remove them to a bowl and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

In the very same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Place your marinated shrimp carefully into the hot pan. Sauté until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway to achieve an even cook. This quick cooking ensures the shrimp stay juicy and tender instead of rubbery. You’ll love the aroma as all those spices toast and mingle in the skillet.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Now, it’s time to reunite the cooked veggies with the shrimp. Pour them back into the skillet and give everything a gentle toss, sautéing just for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This final mingle marries the flavors beautifully, letting the shrimp soak up some veggie sweetness while the veggies get a touch of that spicy marinade essence. Then, remove from heat and get ready to plate up your masterpiece.

How to Serve Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

A silver frying pan filled with a single layer of cooked shrimp, each shrimp curled and browned with a slightly crispy texture on the outside. The shrimp are spread evenly and sit in a shallow layer of browned oil and spices that have caramelized onto the pan’s surface. The pan rests on a white marbled background, with a green cloth with fringes partially visible at the edge. There is a white bowl with chopped red onions and a small section of another white bowl at the corners of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley right before serving is a game changer. It brightens the plate with a pop of green and adds a fresh, mildly herbal contrast that lifts the smoky, zesty notes in the shrimp and vegetables. Feel free to add a wedge of lime on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus if you want.

Side Dishes

This skillet stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can make dinner feel even more special. Steaming fluffy jasmine rice or fluffy couscous will soak up the flavorful juices perfectly. Alternatively, a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast that balances the warm spices in the shrimp and veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, dish the shrimp and vegetables over warm, toasted pita bread or wraps and add a dollop of creamy tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce for a Mediterranean twist. Another fun idea is to serve it atop zucchini noodles for a low-carb, colorful plate, or to layer it over creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal. This recipe adapts easily to your mood and occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that shrimp can become a bit firmer after chilling, so gentle reheating is best.

Freezing

While the veggies and shrimp cook quickly fresh, you can freeze cooked leftovers if needed. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, label with the date, and use within 2 months. To preserve the best texture, thaw slowly overnight in the fridge before reheating rather than defrosting quickly in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat your shrimp and vegetables gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat, which can toughen the shrimp and dry out the veggies. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating can help keep everything moist and fresh-tasting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator and pat them dry before marinating. This prevents excess moisture that could interfere with a good sear and ensures the marinade penetrates well.

What if I don’t have chili seasoning?

No worries! You can substitute with a mix of chili powder, smoked paprika, a dash of cumin, and a little brown sugar to mimic that smoky-sweet flavor. Adjust to taste to keep the signature flavor of this Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe.

Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?

While shrimp is the star here, you can swap it with firm tofu or tempeh cubes marinated with the same spices. The veggies and marinade work well with these proteins, creating a satisfying vegetarian version.

How spicy is the Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe?

The level of heat is mild to moderate, thanks to the chili seasoning and black pepper. It’s easily adaptable if you prefer it spicier—just add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne. Conversely, you can reduce the chili seasoning for a gentler flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the shrimp for up to 2 hours before cooking to enhance flavor. However, the veggies are best cooked fresh to retain their texture. Cooking everything fully ahead and reheating is possible but won’t be quite as crisp or vibrant as freshly made.

Final Thoughts

There is something so satisfying about the ease and explosion of flavor in this Shrimp and Vegetables Skillet Recipe. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, it brings a colorful, healthy meal to the table that feels both special and effortless. Once you try it, I promise it will quickly become a go-to dish for those busy nights when you want vibrant flavor without complicated steps. Go ahead and dive in—you’re going to love every bite!

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