Shrimp and Scallion Stir-Fry

This Scallion and Cilantro Shrimp Stir-Fry recipe is a true delight, offering vibrant green colors and a burst of fresh onion flavor. With the succulent shrimp, aromatic scallions, and fragrant cilantro, this dish is a celebration of simple yet bold ingredients. It’s a quick and easy stir-fry that brings out the best flavors of the sea and the garden, resulting in a delightful fusion of tastes and textures.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• Salt
• 4 bunches scallions, trimmed
• 1 clove garlic, peeled
• 3 tablespoons peanut or neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn
• About 11/2 pounds shrimp, 20 to 30 per pound, peeled, rinsed, and dried
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and salt it.
2. Meanwhile, cut 3 bunches of the scallions into 3- or 4-inch lengths; chop the remaining bunch and set it aside.
3. Add the long scallion pieces to the boiling water and cook until bright green, about 1 minute, then drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
4. Plunge the scallions into a bowl of ice water, then drain again and purée in a blender with the garlic, using a little of the reserved cooking water to make the mixture smooth.
5. Put the oil in a large skillet over high heat. When hot, add the shrimp and a large pinch of salt and cook, stirring only occasionally, until the shrimp are uniformly pink, 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Turn the heat down to low and add the chopped scallion and the cilantro. Stir, then stir in the scallion purée.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning and serve immediately.

FLAVOR VARIATIONS FOR GRILLED OR BROILED SHRIMP:

• Rosemary and Orange: Garlic, salt, 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary, 2 teaspoons grated orange zest, olive oil, lemon juice or white wine, toasted bread crumbs or chopped fresh parsley.
• Chipotle: Garlic, salt, 1 or 2 canned chipotle chiles (with a little adobo), olive oil, lime juice, chopped fresh cilantro.
• Pesto: 1/4 cup Traditional Pesto, none needed.
• Miso: 2 tablespoons white or yellow miso, dark sesame oil, and sake, minced fresh chives.
• Curry Paste: Red or green curry paste, coconut milk, chopped fresh mint, or Thai basil.
• Lemongrass: 2 inches lemongrass, minced; 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger; 1 small fresh Thai chile, minced; salt, neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn; nam pla (Thai fish sauce), chopped scallion.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Serve the Scallion and Cilantro Shrimp Stir-Fry over steamed rice or noodles for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
• Add a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the flavors and enhance the nutritional value of the dish.
• For an Asian-inspired twist, pair this shrimp stir-fry with a side of hot and tangy kimchi or pickled vegetables.
• Complete the meal with a refreshing beverage like iced green tea or a citrus-infused sparkling water.

Enjoy this Scallion and Cilantro Shrimp Stir-Fry with its vibrant and fresh flavors that are sure to please your palate and make your dining experience truly delightful.