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Shrimp and Corn Skillet with Pancetta

Shrimp and Corn Skillet with Pancetta

A quick and flavorful one-skillet dish combining sweet corn, crispy pancetta, and tender shrimp with garlic, onion, and fresh herbs. Ready in under 30 minutes, this Shrimp and Corn Skillet with Pancetta is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and bright flavors with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Meat

  • 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 4 ounces pancetta, cut into small pieces

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or thawed frozen corn)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)

Oils, Herbs, and Spices

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (as needed)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Peel and devein the shrimp if needed. Cut pancetta into small pieces. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the bell pepper if using. Shave fresh corn kernels from the cob or thaw frozen corn.
  2. Cook the Pancetta: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the pancetta. Cook until crispy and golden brown, then remove it from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add a splash of olive oil if needed to the same skillet. Toss in onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and garlic is fragrant, stirring often.
  4. Cook the Corn and Shrimp: Add the corn kernels and cook a few minutes until they begin to caramelize. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook the shrimp 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  5. Combine and Finish: Return the crispy pancetta to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Remove from heat and squeeze lemon juice over the dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp and corn for best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Use rendered pancetta fat to sauté vegetables for added smoky flavor.
  • Lemon juice brightens and balances the richness of the dish.
  • Cook corn and shrimp over medium-high heat for better caramelization and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp skillet, pancetta recipe, quick dinner, corn skillet, one pan meal, easy shrimp recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten free