Mediterranean Shrimp Recipe with Bell Peppers Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that delivers vibrant flavor in every single bite, let me introduce you to Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers! This lively one-skillet wonder combines plump, juicy shrimp with colorful bell peppers, aromatic spices, and a bright splash of lemon—guaranteed to whisk your taste buds off on a seaside adventure around the Mediterranean, all in under 30 minutes.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers is how it uses bright, everyday ingredients to create standout flavor, color, and texture. Every item plays an essential role—so be sure to gather the freshest ingredients you can!

• Large shrimp or prawns (1¼ lb): These are the star of the show; make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easier eating. If frozen, thaw thoroughly so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• All-purpose flour (1 tbsp): Lightly coats the shrimp for a soft, barely-there crust that helps the seasonings cling and enhances texture.
• Smoked Spanish paprika (1-2 tsp): Provides a subtly smoky, earthy depth—go for the higher amount if you adore bold flavor!
• Salt and pepper (½ tsp each): Basic but essential—these draw out sweetness from the shrimp and peppers.
• Ground coriander (½ tsp): Adds a touch of citrusy warmth that complements the bell peppers beautifully.
• Cayenne (¼ tsp): Brings a gentle heat; adjust up or down, depending on your spice tolerance.
• Sugar (¼ tsp): Just the tiniest bit balances acidity and rounds out the spices.
• Butter or ghee (1 tbsp): Delivers richness and flavor, especially when paired with olive oil—ghee offers that nutty, aromatic note.
• Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp): Essential to Mediterranean cooking—use your best for gorgeous aroma and silky mouthfeel.
• Shallots (3, thinly sliced): More refined than onions, they lend a sweet, subtle sharpness that melds perfectly with garlic.
• Garlic (4 cloves, chopped): Nothing says Mediterranean like the punch of fresh garlic!
• Bell peppers (½ green + ½ yellow, sliced): Vibrant, sweet, and slightly tangy; feel free to mix and match colors for even more visual pop.
• Canned diced tomato (1 cup): Gives a juicy, tangy backbone and ties all the ingredients together in a saucy embrace.
• Chicken or vegetable broth (⅓ cup): Adds depth and helps everything come together without being heavy—choose vegetable broth for a pescatarian version.
• Dry white wine (2 tbsp): A little bit lifts the entire dish with brightness and dimension (or swap more broth if you prefer).
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp): A must for that fresh, sunny zing that cuts through the richness.
• Chopped parsley (⅓ cup): Sprinkled on at the end, parsley delivers herbaceous vibrance and a beautiful finish.

Variations

This Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers is wonderfully flexible—so don’t be shy about tweaking it! Whether it’s dietary needs, personal tastes, or using what’s already stocked in your kitchen, here are some fun ways to make it your own.

• Swap the Protein: Not a shrimp fan? Sliced chicken breast, scallops, or even tofu can work beautifully in the same flavorful sauce (just adjust cook times).
• Change the Peppers: Use all red bell peppers for extra sweetness or toss in orange for even more color and a slight citrusy note.
• Spice Level: Love more heat? Add more cayenne or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, or dial it down for a milder family-friendly dish.
• Wine-Free Option: Simply replace the white wine with more broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a similar tang.
• More Veggies: Toss in zucchini ribbons, baby spinach, or even artichoke hearts for added variety and extra nutritional punch.

How to Make Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers

Step 1: Toss the Shrimp with Spices

Start by patting your shrimp completely dry (this step ensures they sear, not steam!). In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with flour, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, coriander, cayenne, and just a touch of sugar—every piece should be beautifully coated and blushing with spices.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots, Garlic, and Bell Peppers

Heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced shallots and chopped garlic, letting them gently cook for 2-3 minutes—your kitchen will instantly smell heavenly. Be careful not to burn the garlic (lower the heat if needed), then add in the sliced bell peppers, sautéing and tossing occasionally for another 4 minutes until they’re slightly softened and vibrant.

Step 3: Add Shrimp & Build the Sauce

Now, add your beautifully seasoned shrimp straight into the skillet. Sear quickly, about 1 to 2 minutes, just until you see one side turning pink and opaque. Pour in the diced tomatoes, broth, white wine, and lemon juice, swirling all that flavor together. Simmer for a couple more minutes, just until the shrimp are plump, bright orange, and cooked through—don’t overcook!

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the shrimp are done, immediately stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings if you like, then serve Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers hot and fresh, straight from the skillet for maximum impact!

How to Serve Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers

Garnishes

For the final touch, a shower of fresh parsley is a must—it brings cooling, aromatic freshness. To up the wow factor, try a few curls of lemon zest or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving. I even love a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to finish, letting each bite pop just a little more!

Side Dishes

Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers is wonderful over fluffy orzo, lemony couscous, or even jasmine rice, where it can soak up all that tasty sauce. Crusty bread (for sopping!) or a simple green salad—think cucumber, tomato, fresh herbs, and a splash of olive oil—are also happy companions for this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, ladle the shrimp and bell pepper mixture into small bowls atop crostini for a tapas-style bite. Or, serve it family-style in your prettiest cast iron, surrounded by lemon wedges and tiny bowls of sides, for a Mediterranean feast atmosphere. For a lighter meal, spoon Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers over a big platter of greens with even more fresh herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), simply store your Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 days—the flavors even mingle and deepen overnight.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish if needed. Portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 1 month. Be aware that shrimp can sometimes get a bit rubbery after freezing, and bell peppers may lose some of their crispness, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Reheating

To reheat Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can overcook the shrimp—low and slow on the stovetop is your friend here.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving color, lightness, and sheer joy on the dinner table, Mediterranean Shrimp with Bell Peppers will never let you down. I hope you give this recipe a try—there’s nothing like savoring fresh, zesty flavors with good company. Enjoy, and let me know how you customize your skillet!

Print