How to Make Mexican Seafood with a Classic Salsa Verde

Mexican seafood dishes are a delightful way to combine fresh flavors with bold spices. One of the standout accompaniments to these dishes is the classic salsa verde. This tangy, green sauce made from tomatillos, cilantro, and lime enhances the taste of seafood, making it a perfect pairing for a range of recipes. Here’s how to make delicious Mexican seafood served with a classic salsa verde.

Choosing Your Seafood

The first step to preparing Mexican seafood is selecting the type of seafood you want to use. Popular options include shrimp, white fish, squid, and scallops. Each type of seafood can impart a unique flavor and texture to your dish, so it depends on your preference:

  • Shrimp: Tender and quick-cooking, shrimp can be marinated and grilled or sautéed.
  • White Fish: Varieties like tilapia or cod are versatile and soak up flavors well.
  • Squid: Adds a pleasant chewiness and can be grilled or lightly fried.
  • Scallops: Sweet and tender, scallops are best seared to retain their moisture.

Preparing the Salsa Verde

Salsa verde is easy to make and requires just a few ingredients:

  • 10 tomatillos, husked and rinsed
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 small onion, roughly chopped
  • 1-2 jalapeños, depending on your heat preference
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • Salt to taste

To prepare the salsa verde, follow these steps:

  1. In a pot, add the tomatillos and enough water to cover them. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the tomatillos are softened.
  2. Drain the tomatillos and transfer them to a blender. Add the cilantro, onion, jalapeños, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Blend until smooth, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little water until you reach your desired texture.

Cooking the Seafood

Once your salsa verde is ready, it’s time to cook the seafood. Here’s a basic method for sautéing shrimp, which can easily be adapted for other seafood types:

  1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add minced garlic (2-3 cloves) and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Introduce your seafood (e.g., 1 pound of shrimp) and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque (about 3-5 minutes). If using fish, cook until easily flaked with a fork.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of cumin for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Mexican seafood with salsa verde, plate the cooked seafood and drizzle generously with the salsa. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish:

  • Garnish: Finely chop some additional cilantro and sprinkle over the top for freshness.
  • Accompaniments: Serve with warm corn tortillas, avocado slices, or a side of black beans.
  • Additional Flavor: A squeeze of fresh lime over the dish just before serving can enhance the flavors even more.

Creating a Mexican seafood dish paired with a classic salsa verde not only showcases vibrant ingredients but also offers a taste experience that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine. Feel free to experiment with different seafood types and adjust the salsa verde's spiciness to suit your preferences. Enjoy your culinary journey!