Garlic shrimps with tomato, chilli & thyme

Garlic shrimps with tomato, chilli, and thyme is a quick, flavorful dish that features juicy shrimps, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs. The combination of spicy chili and sweet tomatoes creates a delightful sauce perfect for any occasion.

10 Feb 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

12 oz shrimps
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp chili powder
2 tomatoes
1 tbsp fresh thyme
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp olive oil
Garlic shrimps with tomato, chilli & thyme

Garlic shrimps with tomato, chilli, and thyme is a delightful and aromatic dish that combines fresh, zesty, and slightly spicy flavors. It's a quick and easy recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The shrimp is complemented by the natural sweetness of tomatoes, the heat from chili, and the herbaceous notes of fresh thyme.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Peel and devein the shrimps if not done already. Rinse and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Finely chop the garlic cloves.
- Dice the tomatoes into small pieces.
- Finely chop the fresh thyme leaves.
- Using a fine grater, zest the lemons to get 2 tablespoons of zest.
2. Marinate the Shrimps:
- In a bowl, combine the shrimps with chili powder, half of the chopped garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
- Toss until the shrimps are well coated. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Cook the Shrimps:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated shrimps to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimps turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimps from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
5. Combine and Finish:
- Return the cooked shrimps to the skillet with the tomatoes.
- Add the fresh thyme and lemon zest. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve:
- Plate the garlic shrimps with tomato, chili, and thyme immediately.
- Sprinkle some extra fresh thyme on top for garnish if desired.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.

This Garlic shrimps with tomato, chilli, and thyme recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will add a burst of flavor to your meal table. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. With its vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Garlic shrimps with tomato, chilli & thyme FAQ:

How long should I cook the shrimp for?

Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side over medium-high heat, until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 4-6 minutes total.

Can I substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme?

Yes, you can substitute dried thyme for fresh thyme. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. For this recipe, use approximately 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.

What should I serve with garlic shrimp?

Garlic shrimp pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. These options help soak up the flavorful sauce.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. If they curl tightly, that's also a sign they are done. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery.

Can leftover garlic shrimp be stored, and if so, how?

Yes, leftover garlic shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking.

Tips:

- Buy fresh or frozen shrimps already peeled and deveined to save on preparation time.

- Mince the garlic finely to ensure even distribution and maximum flavor.

- Don't overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.

- For an added layer of flavor, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the garlic.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat tolerance, or substitute with fresh chopped chili peppers for more heat.

- Garnish with additional fresh thyme and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 80kcal
Protein 13g
Carbohydrates 4.35g
Fiber 1.78g
Sugar 1.81g
Fat 8g

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