Spiced shrimps with tzatziki

Spiced Shrimps with Tzatziki features marinated shrimp seasoned with paprika and cumin, paired with a creamy cucumber tzatziki sauce. This dish is perfect for summer dining, offering a refreshing and flavorful combination that is easy to prepare.

24 Jan 2026
Cook time 4 min
Prep time 40 min

Ingredients:

32 oz shrimps
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 lemon
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried coriander
1 tsp salt
3/4 cup greek yogurt
1 cucumber
2 tsp coriander leaves

Delight your taste buds with Spiced Shrimps with Tzatziki, a flavorful and refreshing dish that combines the boldness of spiced shrimp with the cool creaminess of tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a summer meal or a light dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and easy preparation.

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Shrimps:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, ground cumin, dried coriander, and salt.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimps into the bowl and toss until the shrimps are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the shrimps marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Tzatziki:
- Peel the cucumber and grate it using the coarse side of a grater.
- Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out the excess water. This is crucial to avoid a watery tzatziki.
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and the grated cucumber.
- Add the chopped coriander leaves and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Refrigerate until ready to serve to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Cooking the Shrimps:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimps in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cook the shrimps for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Ensure they are cooked through but not overcooked to retain their juiciness.

4. Serving:
- Arrange the cooked shrimps on a serving platter.
- Serve with a generous portion of the freshly prepared tzatziki on the side.
- Garnish with extra chopped coriander leaves and a wedge of lemon if desired.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Spiced Shrimps with Tzatziki, a perfect combination of spicy and cool, creating a memorable culinary experience. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, this recipe brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

Spiced shrimps with tzatziki FAQ:

How long should I marinate the shrimp?

Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors from the spices to absorbed effectively before cooking.

How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are fully cooked when they are pink and opaque. Typically, this takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.

Can I make the tzatziki ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tzatziki a few hours in advance. Refrigerate it to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki?

You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular plain yogurt or dairy-free yogurt, though the consistency may differ. Drain any excess liquid for a thicker texture.

What size skillet should I use for cooking the shrimp?

Use a large skillet or grill pan to allow for adequate space when cooking the shrimp in batches. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

Tips:

- Ensure the shrimp is deveined and cleaned before marinating to improve texture and flavor.

- For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili powder to the spice mix.

- The tzatziki can be prepared in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

- Grating and then squeezing out the excess water from the cucumber will ensure a thicker tzatziki sauce.

- Serve with warm pita bread or on a bed of fresh greens for a complete meal.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 110kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 4.55g
Fiber 0.69g
Sugar 1.72g
Fat 6g

Spiced shrimps with tzatziki