Shrimp with bell peppers, garlic, and sweet chili sauce is not only a delicious dish but also offers several health and nutritional benefits. Let’s explore some of them:
1. High Protein Content: Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein. It provides all the essential amino acids required by the body for growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues. Protein is essential for building muscle, supporting a healthy immune system, and regulating various physiological processes.
2. Low in Calories: Shrimp is relatively low in calories compared to many other protein sources. This makes it a suitable option for individuals who are watching their calorie intake or aiming to maintain a healthy weight.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids are known for their positive effects on heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body.
4. Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp is a good source of various essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, selenium, and zinc. Vitamin B12 is important for nerve function and the production of red blood cells, while vitamin D plays a role in bone health. Selenium and zinc act as antioxidants and contribute to the proper functioning of the immune system.
5. Antioxidants: Bell peppers, particularly the brightly colored ones like red, yellow, and orange, are rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and carotenoids. These compounds help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals, thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
6. Garlic’s Health Benefits: Garlic, known for its distinct flavor, is also rich in antioxidants. It contains compounds like allicin, which has been associated with potential health benefits such as improved heart health, immune system support, and antimicrobial properties.
7. Sweet Chili Sauce: While sweet chili sauce adds flavor to the dish, it’s important to note that it also adds some sugar and calories. However, in moderation, the sauce can still contribute to the overall taste experience without significantly affecting the nutritional profile of the dish.
To maximize the health benefits of shrimp with bell peppers, garlic, and sweet chili sauce, it’s advisable to prepare it using healthy cooking methods like grilling, baking, or stir-frying with minimal oil. Additionally, incorporating a variety of vegetables and maintaining portion control can further enhance the overall nutritional value of the dish.
Shrimp with Bell Peppers, Garlic and Sweet Chili Sauce
Ingredients:
Shrimp:
3 tablespoons olive oil divided
1 red bell pepper sliced
1 green bell pepper sliced
salt
1 lb shrimp raw, peeled, and deveined( leave tail on or remove- optional)
4 cloves garlic minced
½ teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes
Sauce:
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
3 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon ginger dried
Garnish:
2 tablespoons sesame seeds toasted
2 tablespoons fresh parsley minced
▫️Instructions:
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil on medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and season with salt. Cook, stirring for 5 to 10 minutes until softened. Remove bell peppers to a bowl.
To the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil on medium heat. Add shrimp, minced garlic, crushed red chili pepper flakes. Sprinkle with a dash of salt. Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. Remove from heat.
Add the sauce ingredients on top of shrimp: soy sauce, Sriracha sauce, honey, sprinkle with dried ginger. Toss with the shrimp to thoroughly mix the sauce ingredients and to coat the shrimp with the sauce on low-medium heat.
Cook for about 1 or 2 minutes until the sauce coats the shrimp properly and until the shrimp are cooked through but not overcooked. Serve the shrimp on top of cooked bell peppers. Top with toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh parsley.
Certainly! Here are some tips to prepare shrimp with bell peppers, garlic, and sweet chili sauce:
1. Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp whenever possible. Look for shrimp that are firm, shiny, and have a mild sea-like odor. Avoid shrimp that have a strong ammonia smell or appear slimy.
2. Properly Clean and Peel the Shrimp: Remove the shells and devein the shrimp before cooking. You can keep the tail intact for presentation purposes or remove it if desired.
3. Marinate the Shrimp: For added flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in a mixture of minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a dash of lime juice for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the shrimp with delicious flavors.
4. Prep the Bell Peppers and Garlic: Slice the bell peppers into thin strips or dice them, whichever you prefer. Finely mince the garlic cloves to evenly distribute the flavor.
5. Stir-Fry or Sauté: Heat a pan or wok over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once hot, add the bell peppers and garlic, and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until they start to soften.
6. Add the Shrimp: Increase the heat to high and add the marinated shrimp to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
7. Sweet Chili Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and pour sweet chili sauce over the shrimp and bell peppers. Stir well to coat the ingredients evenly. Cook for another minute or so until the sauce is heated through.
8. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and transfer the shrimp, bell peppers, and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with some chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness and visual appeal.
9. Pairing Suggestions: Shrimp with bell peppers, garlic, and sweet chili sauce pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
Remember to adjust the spice level of the sweet chili sauce according to your preference. Enjoy your flavorful shrimp dish!