Latin-Inspired Gourmet Sazón with Fresh Seafood

If you’re ready to take your culinary skills to the next level, look no further than this Latin-Inspired Gourmet Sazón with Fresh Seafood. This recipe is bursting with flavor and showcases the vibrant spices typical of Latin cuisine, making it perfect for a special dinner or a casual gathering. The combination of fresh seafood and aromatic spices creates a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also a delightful explosion of flavors in your mouth.

Ingredients

For the Sazón:

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Zest of 1 lime

For the Seafood:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound scallops
• 1 pound firm white fish (such as snapper or cod), cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sazón

In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and lime zest. Mix well and set aside. This homemade sazón will add a burst of flavor to your seafood dish.

Step 2: Marinate the Seafood

In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, scallops, and fish. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, then sprinkle the prepared sazón over the top. Toss gently to ensure all the seafood is coated with the spices. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses the seafood with rich flavors.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the corn and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Seafood

Add the marinated seafood to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping the seafood gently to ensure even cooking. The shrimp should turn pink, while the scallops and fish should be opaque and firm to the touch.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over a bed of rice or quinoa. The vibrant colors and flavors will create an enticing presentation that will impress your guests.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose the freshest seafood available for the best flavor. Look for shrimp that smell clean and have a firm texture. Scallops should be plump and slightly sweet, while fish should have a mild, clean scent.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. For a milder version, you can omit it entirely.
• Vegetable Variations: You can substitute the bell peppers with other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes, depending on your preference.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the Latin-inspired flavors, consider serving this dish with a refreshing mango salsa or a zesty avocado salad. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will enhance the dish beautifully, making for a perfect pairing.

Final Thoughts

This Latin-Inspired Gourmet Sazón with Fresh Seafood is a delightful way to explore the vibrant tastes of Latin cuisine. The combination of zesty flavors and succulent seafood will surely impress everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seafood or vegetables based on your preferences.

For further reading, you might enjoy exploring more about Latin spices and their uses in cooking. Consider checking out articles on Latin Cooking Techniques and Seafood Cooking Tips.

If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends or try making it yourself! Happy cooking!