Prepare to embark on a sensory journey that captures the essence of North African cuisine with this vibrant and aromatic shrimp dish. The combination of preserved lemons, briny olives, and perfectly cooked shrimp creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the bustling markets of Marrakech. This recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed by bold, exotic spices.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 500g, peeled (fresh or thawed)
- Preserved Lemon: 1, quartered or thinly sliced
- Green Olives: 100g, pitted
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 small, sliced
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 pinch chili pepper (optional)
- Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons
- Lemon: Juice of half a fresh lemon
- Garnish: Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Ingredient Preparation
- Slice onion
- Mince garlic
- Cut preserved lemon into small pieces or thin strips
- Optional: Remove pulp for milder flavor
- Lightly rinse olives if very salty
2. Aromatic Base
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet
- Sauté onion for 2-3 minutes over medium heat
- Add garlic and spices (ginger, turmeric, paprika, chili)
- Mix well and cook for 1 minute to release aromas
3. Cooking the Shrimp
- Add shrimp to the pan
- Coat thoroughly with spice mixture
- Cook 3-5 minutes over medium heat
- Shrimp should turn pink and become slightly firm
4. Final Flavor Combination
- Stir in olives and preserved lemon pieces
- Add fresh lemon juice
- Gently mix to combine all ingredients
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper
5. Serving
- Transfer to serving dish
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley
- Serve immediately
Nutritional Information & Serving Details
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Nutritional Highlights (per serving):
- High in protein
- Low in calories
- Rich in healthy fats
- Good source of selenium
- Approximate calories: 250-300
Why This Recipe is a Healthy Choice
This Shrimp with Preserved Lemon and Olives is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Shrimp provides lean protein with minimal calories, while the array of spices offers potential health benefits. Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and the olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
The preserved lemons and olives add a unique flavor profile while contributing beneficial probiotics and antioxidants. The dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and packed with flavor, making it an excellent option for those seeking a nutritious, exciting meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Pro Tip: For a complete meal, serve over cauliflower rice or with a light salad to keep the dish low-carb and nutrient-dense.