Longhorn Southwest Shrimp Recipe

Alright guys, here’s how to up your appetizer game – with this Longhorn Southwest Shrimp recipe!

These shrimp boast such a great blend of flavors with a kick from cherry peppers and some zing from Prairie Dust seasoning.

You’ll want to fry them to golden perfection and then toss them in a buttery lemon sauce.

A key trick is to keep the heat low when simmering to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Let’s make this!

How to Make Longhorn Southwest Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup Flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1/2 cup Cherry Peppers (sliced)
• 1 stick Butter
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1 tbsp Prairie Dust (or your preferred seasoned salt)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

In a bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Coat the shrimp thoroughly with this mixture.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.

Fry shrimp until golden and crispy.

Step 3:

Drain shrimp on paper towels.

In another pan, melt butter over low heat and add lemon juice.

Step 4:

Add cherry peppers to the butter mixture for a burst of spice.

Simmer for a couple of minutes to mix the flavors.

Step 5:

Toss fried shrimp in the butter and pepper mix.

Sprinkle a touch of prairie dust for extra flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Shrimp

For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp from your local market rather than frozen to maintain quality and texture.

Cooking with High Heat

Frying the shrimp at high heat ensures they remain crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Handling the Peppers

If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the cherry peppers before adding them to the dish.

Adding Extra Herbs

Feel free to add your preferred herbs like parsley or cilantro for additional freshness and a pop of color.

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them in a skillet to restore their crispiness.

What to Serve with Longhorn Southwest Shrimp Recipe

Traditional Corn on the Cob

You can’t go wrong with a classic side like corn on the cob.

Grilled or boiled, it pairs perfectly with the flavors of your Longhorn Southwest Shrimp.

Rub a little butter and sprinkle some chili powder for an extra kick!

Refreshing Cucumber Salad

A light cucumber salad is a refreshing contrast to the shrimp.

Dice some cucumbers, add red onions, and toss them in vinegar with a little dill.

This cool dish adds a crisp texture and keeps things fresh.

Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes

If you’re seeking something heartier, try some garlic butter roasted potatoes.

Toss baby potatoes in olive oil, garlic, salt, and rosemary.

Roast them until golden, and you’ve got a savory companion for the shrimp.

Quirky Sweet Potato Wedges

For a unique twist, sweet potato wedges can be an unexpected hit.

Cut the wedges, sprinkle them with seasonings like paprika and cinnamon.

Bake them crispy and enjoy how they complement the spicy shrimp.

Zesty Mango Salsa

Mango salsa offers a sweet and tangy match for the flavors of the shrimp.

Mix diced mango with jalapeños, red onion, and lime juice.

It’s a vibrant and fun addition to any plate!

Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread

Consider serving cheesy jalapeño cornbread.

The creamy texture and slight heat work well with the savory shrimp.

It’s a comforting and flavorful bite every time.

Variations and Substitutions

Change Up the Coating

You can switch out the traditional flour coating with cornmeal for a crunchy texture that has a bit more grit.

Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs can add an even crispier finish to your shrimp, giving each bite an exciting crunch!

Spice it Your Way

For those who like a kick, mix cayenne pepper or red chili flakes into the flour mixture.

If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using smoked paprika to add depth without the heat.

Substitution Options

If you’re out of shrimp, calamari rings can be a fun and flexible substitute to try in this recipe.

For a gluten-free version, you can use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular flour.

Sauce Adjustments

Try mixing Sriracha with mayo for a spicy dip that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

A honey-mustard sauce is another sweet alternative that complements the savory flavors nicely!

These variations and substitutions make the Longhorn Southwest Shrimp recipe deliciously adaptable! Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen!

How to Store Leftover Southwest Shrimp

After savoring your delicious Longhorn Southwest Shrimp, you might find yourself with some leftovers.

Don’t worry!

Proper storage is key to keeping them fresh.

I always recommend using an airtight container, as it really helps maintain the shrimp’s flavor and texture in the fridge.

Refrigerated shrimp can last 3-4 days when stored correctly below 40°F.

Keep It Airtight

Leaving shrimp exposed to air can lead to quicker spoilage and a rubbery texture.

I find that a good-quality resealable plastic bag or glass container works wonders for keeping freshness locked in.

Temperature Matters

The back of the fridge is the best spot for keeping those shrimp cold, as it often maintains a stable temperature.

You don’t want to risk spoilage by placing it in warmer areas near the door.

Freezing for Later

If you plan to store it for more than a few days, freezing is a fantastic choice.

Make sure you lay the shrimp out in a single layer initially so they don’t clump together.

They can last a good 2-3 months in the freezer while maintaining their taste.

Happy storing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Shrimp

When making Longhorn Southwest Shrimp, you want them juicy and tender.

Cooking shrimp for too long can make them rubbery.

I suggest frying them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they’re perfectly pink!

Not Using Fresh Ingredients

Using stale or old ingredients can affect the taste.

Fresh shrimp and spices make a huge difference in flavor.

Keep your ingredients fresh and vibrant for the best results!

Missing Proper Seasoning

Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors of this dish.

Make sure to coat the shrimp thoroughly with the seasoning mixture.

Proper seasoning brings out that authentic southwestern flair you’re aiming for!