Salsa Verde Shrimp with Cilantro Rice

Salsa Verde Shrimp with Cilantro Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp in a zesty salsa verde sauce with a side of fragrant cilantro rice. It's fresh, tangy, and perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal. Here's how to make it:

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Ingredients:

For the Salsa Verde Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges, for serving

For the Cilantro Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for extra tang)
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cilantro Rice:

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
• In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
• Stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the saucepan. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
• Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff with a fork.
• Stir in the olive oil or butter, chopped cilantro, and lime juice (if using). Adjust the seasoning with salt, to taste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Salsa Verde Shrimp:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
• Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
• Pour in the salsa verde and lime juice. Stir to coat the shrimp in the sauce. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to heat the salsa verde through.

3. Serve:

• Serve the salsa verde shrimp over a bed of cilantro rice.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
• Add lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

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Tips:

• Make it Spicy: If you like heat, add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the salsa verde.
• Rice Alternatives: Swap out white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
• Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the rice for added texture and flavor.
• Salsa Verde: You can make your own salsa verde by blending roasted tomatillos, jalapeños, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice, or use store-bought for convenience.

This Salsa Verde Shrimp with Cilantro Rice is a delicious and colorful dish that brings together bold flavors and fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering! Enjoy!