Name: Tandoori Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp garam masala; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 47 reviews

If you are craving a dish bursting with vibrant flavors and a hint of exotic spice, this Tandoori Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy shrimp marinated in a blend of aromatic spices come together to create a dish that is both incredibly quick to prepare and satisfyingly delicious. The warm tones of paprika, turmeric, and garam masala give the shrimp a beautiful color and a flavor profile that transports you straight to the heart of Indian-inspired cuisine. Whether you’re whipping this up for a weeknight treat or impressing friends at your next gathering, this Tandoori Shrimp Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with light pink and white cooked shrimp, placed on a white marbled surface. To the top right of the bowl, there is a small clear glass bowl divided into six sections with different spices in red, white, yellow, pale brown, dark brown, and beige colors. To the left of the shrimp bowl, a bunch of fresh green cilantro leaves rests on the white marbled surface. To the right of the shrimp bowl, there is a tall, clear glass bottle filled with golden olive oil. The colors and textures create a fresh and vibrant cooking scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and eye-catching color in your Tandoori Shrimp Recipe. From the richness of olive oil to the earthy warmth of ground coriander, every component is essential.

1 tbsp olive oil: This helps to cook the shrimp evenly and adds just the right smoothness to the dish.
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the recipe, these succulent shrimp soak up the spices beautifully.
1 tbsp paprika: Adds a sweet, smoky flavor and that vibrant red hue that’s signature to tandoori dishes.
1 tsp ground coriander: Brings a subtle citrusy note to brighten the shrimp.
1 tsp garlic powder: Provides a deep, savory undertone that enhances all the spices.
1 tsp garam masala: A warm, fragrant spice blend that gives the dish its authentic Indian flair.
1/2 tsp sea salt: To balance and elevate all the other flavors.
1/2 tsp turmeric: Offers a gentle earthiness and the golden color you expect from tandoori cooking.
1/4 tsp ground ginger: Adds a mild spiciness and aromatic freshness.
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped: The perfect finishing touch with bright herbal notes and color contrast.

How to Make Tandoori Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix and Coat the Shrimp

Start by combining all the dry spices—paprika, ground coriander, garlic powder, garam masala, sea salt, turmeric, and ground ginger—in a small bowl. This aromatic blend is what makes the shrimp truly sing. Once mixed, rub the spice mix thoroughly onto the shrimp ensuring every piece is evenly coated. This step is key to infusing the shrimp with all that bold tandoori flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the spiced shrimp, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking. Allow each side to cook for about 2 minutes until the shrimp turn a lovely pink and become opaque. This quick high-heat cooking locks in the juice while developing a slight char that adds depth to the flavor.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro on top. The cilantro adds an irresistible fresh burst and a vibrant green contrast against the rich red shrimp, making the Tandoori Shrimp Recipe as beautiful as it is tasty.

How to Serve Tandoori Shrimp Recipe

A white plate holds a pile of about twenty grilled shrimp, each coated in a dark, slightly charred reddish-brown spice mix. The shrimp are arranged in a loose mound near the center of the plate. Bright green chopped herbs are sprinkled over the shrimp and scattered around the plate. Two lime wedges, one on the left and one on the right side of the plate, add fresh green highlights. The plate sits on a textured green cloth, all placed on a white marbled surface with some loose herb leaves around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is an absolute must to brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise, but you can also squeeze a little lemon or lime juice over the shrimp for a zesty finish. Thin slices of red onion or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add interesting texture and visual appeal as well.

Side Dishes

Tandoori shrimp pairs wonderfully with cooling sides that balance the spices. Traditional choices like basmati rice or warm naan bread are classics. For a lighter option, a crisp cucumber and yogurt raita or a fresh green salad with mint adds freshness and contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, skewer the cooked shrimp and serve as party appetizers with a tangy chutney dip. Alternatively, toss them on top of a vibrant grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce to turn this Tandoori Shrimp Recipe into a complete meal that dazzles both the eyes and the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the cooled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days, making for a fast, flavorful addition to salads or wraps the next day.

Freezing

While shrimp is best fresh, you can freeze the cooked tandoori shrimp if needed. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating carefully.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat or briefly microwave them. Avoid overcooking so they remain tender and juicy, preserving all the great flavors from your Tandoori Shrimp Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before applying the spice rub for the best texture and flavor absorption in your Tandoori Shrimp Recipe.

What can I substitute for garam masala?

If you don’t have garam masala on hand, a mix of ground cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves can mimic its warm, complex tones quite well.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Tandoori Shrimp Recipe has a gentle to moderate spice level thanks to the paprika and garam masala, but you can easily adjust by adding chili powder or cayenne for a kick or reducing spices for a milder taste.

Can I grill the shrimp instead of cooking in a skillet?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the tandoori spices beautifully. Just be careful not to overcook—shrimp grill quickly!

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses just spices and shrimp with olive oil. Just be sure any side dishes you serve are also gluten-free to keep the meal safe.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Tandoori Shrimp Recipe is like inviting a burst of sunshine and spice into your kitchen. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, perfect for anyone who loves bold, beautiful food without a ton of fuss. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again, trusting it to impress family and friends at any occasion. So, grab those spices and shrimp and start cooking—your taste buds are in for a treat!

Lily

Tandoori Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Tandoori Shrimp Recipe