Fried Shrimp and Peppers with Spicy Ranch Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances crispy, savory shrimp with the sweet and slightly charred flavor of sautéed peppers, look no further than this Fried Shrimp and Peppers with Spicy Ranch Sauce recipe. This vibrant meal is bursting with texture, flavor, and a creamy, zesty sauce that ties everything together in an unforgettable way. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table with its bright colors and bold taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday staples that come together quickly for a fuss-free meal.
• Bold Flavors: The spicy ranch sauce adds the perfect creamy kick to crispy shrimp and sweet peppers.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a main course or appetizer for any occasion.
• Texture Delight: Combines crunchy fried shrimp with tender, caramelized peppers for a satisfying bite.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it perfect for dinner or entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient has been carefully chosen to create a perfect balance of flavor, crunch, and creaminess. From the crispy shrimp coating to the sweet, juicy peppers, every element adds something special to this dish.

• Shrimp: Medium-sized, peeled and deveined shrimp for the best fry and bite.
• Bell Peppers: A mix of red, yellow, and green for vibrant color and natural sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: For coating the shrimp to get that irresistible crunch.
• Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to infuse flavor into the shrimp.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying the shrimp to golden perfection.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the spicy ranch sauce that balances heat and zest.
• Hot Sauce: Adds the kick to the ranch sauce without overpowering the dish.
• Dill and Parsley: Fresh herbs that brighten the spicy ranch sauce beautifully.
• Lemon Juice: A splash to enhance freshness and cut through richness.

Variations for Fried Shrimp and Peppers with Spicy Ranch Sauce

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s easy to adapt and experiment while still keeping the vibrant essence of the dish.

• Grilled Shrimp Version: Swap frying for grilling to add a smoky flavor and reduce oil.
• Spicy Ranch Alternatives: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier sauce.
• Vegetable Swap: Substitute peppers with zucchini or asparagus for a different vegetable crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use chickpea or rice flour for a crisp coating without gluten.
• Extra Heat: Add sliced jalapeños to the peppers or extra hot sauce in the ranch for more spice.

How to Make Fried Shrimp and Peppers with Spicy Ranch Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry thoroughly to ensure the coating sticks well. Mix the flour with your chosen seasonings in a shallow bowl, then dredge each shrimp until coated evenly.

Step 2: Fry the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the shrimp in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Step 3: Sauté the Peppers

While the shrimp fry, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and cook until soft but still slightly crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Ranch Sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, hot sauce, chopped dill, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir well for a creamy, zesty sauce that packs a flavorful punch.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the crispy fried shrimp on a bed of sautéed peppers and drizzle generously with the spicy ranch sauce. Garnish with extra herbs or a lemon wedge for brightness.

Pro Tips for Making Fried Shrimp and Peppers with Spicy Ranch Sauce

• Dry Shrimp: Thoroughly pat dry shrimp before coating to get maximum crispiness.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain oil temperature around 350°F for perfectly fried shrimp that are not greasy.
• Batch Frying: Fry shrimp in batches to prevent oil temperature from dropping too much.
• Sauté Peppers Lightly: Avoid overcooking peppers to preserve their natural sweetness and crunch.
• Taste the Sauce: Adjust hot sauce and lemon juice to personalize the spicy ranch to your liking.

How to Serve Fried Shrimp and Peppers with Spicy Ranch Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or dill add a pop of color and freshness, while a wedge of lemon adds brightness and a final flavor boost when squeezed on top.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as steamed rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish in a large colorful platter for family-style dining or individually plated with a drizzle of spicy ranch running artistically across the shrimp and peppers for a restaurant-quality look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover shrimp and peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they remain flavorful for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Although best enjoyed fresh, cooked fried shrimp can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferred to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp and peppers in a hot skillet or oven to retain crispiness; avoid microwaving as it tends to make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well as long as they are fully thawed and dried before frying to ensure the coating adheres properly.

How spicy is the spicy ranch sauce?

The sauce has a mild to medium heat level, which you can adjust by adding more or less hot sauce depending on your preference.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or chickpea flour for a crispy, safe coating.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?

Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute to create a lighter and tangier ranch sauce without losing creaminess.

Is it better to bake or fry the shrimp?

Frying gives the best crisp texture, while baking is a healthier option that still yields good results though with less crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Fried Shrimp and Peppers with Spicy Ranch Sauce recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a perfect dish to enjoy any night of the week. Give it a try and watch it become a rapid favorite in your kitchen!

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