How to Make Mexican Seafood with Roasted Sweet Peppers
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, seafood paired with vibrant flavors can transport your taste buds straight to the heart of coastal Mexico. One delightful way to create a dynamic dish is by combining fresh seafood with roasted sweet peppers. This recipe not only highlights the natural sweetness of the peppers but also enhances the seafood with smoky, charred undertones.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound of white fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
- 2 large sweet bell peppers (red and yellow work best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions for Roasting Peppers
1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and slice the sweet peppers in half, removing the seeds.
3. Place the peppers cut-side down on a baking sheet, and drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Roast the peppers in the oven for 20–25 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred.
5. Once roasted, remove the peppers from the oven and cover them with aluminum foil for about 10 minutes; this will help loosen the skin.
6. After 10 minutes, peel off the skin from the peppers, and set them aside.
Preparing the Seafood
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Next, add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the white fish fillets. Sprinkle with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Once the fish is cooked, return the shrimp to the skillet and squeeze the lime juice over the mixture. Stir to combine all the flavors.
Assembling the Dish
1. Slice the roasted sweet peppers into strips.
2. In a serving dish, lay down the roasted pepper strips as a base for the seafood.
3. Spoon the seafood mixture over the roasted peppers, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican seafood with roasted sweet peppers is best served warm. Pair it with:
- Warm corn tortillas for a delightful taco experience.
- A side of cilantro lime rice for a complete meal.
- Fresh avocado slices for a creamy balance to the dish.
Enjoy this flavorful Mexican seafood dish at your next gathering or cozy dinner, and relish the vibrant tastes of the ocean combined with the sweetness of roasted peppers. Your taste buds will thank you!