Quick and Spicy Shrimp Soup

Quick and Spicy Shrimp Soup is a vibrant, flavorful meal that combines succulent shrimp with a spicy broth. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a perfect quick dinner for busy days. With fresh vegetables, a hint of lemon, and a kick of heat from chili flakes, this shrimp soup is savory and satisfying, yet light and refreshing. Whether you want a warming dish or need a speedy meal, this is a simple recipe to make any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Spicy: A delightful combination of spices and fresh ingredients that pack a punch.
• Healthy: Loaded with lean protein and vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Versatile: Serve it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner with crusty bread or rice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups seafood broth (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to desired spice level)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Directions

this recipe

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Build the Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, seafood broth, chili flakes, smoked paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Finish the Soup: Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra chili flakes if you prefer more heat.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken or fish for a different twist.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes or add fresh chili peppers to control the heat.
• Grain Addition: Add cooked rice, quinoa, or noodles to make it more filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a little extra broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the shrimp’s texture after freezing.

FAQs

How can I make this soup spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chili flakes or a fresh chili pepper to the pot. You can also stir in a bit of hot sauce for extra spice.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld together as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

What can I serve this soup with?

Serve this shrimp soup with crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping. You can also serve it over cooked rice for a more filling meal.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before adding them to the soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on the broth and any additional ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I add other seafood to this soup?

Certainly! Feel free to add scallops, mussels, or chunks of white fish for a seafood medley.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.

Can I freeze this soup?

Freezing is not recommended due to the shrimp’s texture after freezing.

What other herbs can I use for garnish?

Fresh parsley or basil can be used as alternatives to cilantro for garnish.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of seafood or chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Quick and Spicy Shrimp Soup is a go-to recipe for when you need something delicious in a hurry. With the perfect balance of heat, brightness, and savory flavors, it’s a meal that feels comforting yet light. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, it’s a recipe that you’ll keep coming back to for its speed and satisfying flavor.

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