Have you ever tried a dish so tantalizing, it feels like a party in your mouth? That’s exactly what happens when you dive into these easy baked Cajun shrimp recipes. Picture this: succulent shrimp, kissed by a blend of spices that dance on your tongue — each bite a symphony of flavors, with a hint of heat that sneaks up on you, just like that one time I underestimated the spice level at a New Orleans festival. I was left speechless, but in the best way possible. And yes, I’ve learned to keep a glass of milk nearby ever since.
These recipes are my go-to when I’m craving something lively — they’re quick, simple, yet they pack a punch. Plus, baking means less cleanup, which, let’s face it, is a blessing after a long day of juggling life. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen; it’s like Mardi Gras without the beads. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes have a kind of magic that makes them irresistible. So, are you ready to bring a bit of that Southern charm into your home? Let’s get cooking — and maybe keep that milk on standby, just in case.
Steps
- In a resealable plastic bag, combine paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Seal the bag and shake it well to mix the spices thoroughly.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bag, seal it again, and shake until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes or until the shrimp turn bright pink and are opaque in the center.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- ¾ teaspoon of dried thyme
- ¾ teaspoon of dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or adjust to taste
- 1 ½ pounds of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Nutritional Values
Calories: 664 | Total Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 1036mg | Sodium: 1772mg | Total Carbohydrate: 4g | Dietary Fiber: 4g | Total Sugars: 0g | Protein: 112g | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 252mg | Iron: 20mg | Potassium: 1072mg
FAQ
- What spices are used in the Cajun Shrimp recipe?
- The recipe uses paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper for seasoning the shrimp.
- How long does it take to cook the shrimp?
- The shrimp should be cooked in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes, until they turn bright pink and are no longer transparent in the center.
- Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe?
- Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by altering the amount of cayenne pepper used, adding more if you prefer a spicier dish or reducing it for a milder flavor.
- What nutritional information is provided for this dish?
- Each serving contains approximately 166 calories, 5g of fat, 1g of carbohydrates, and 28g of protein. It also provides cholesterol, sodium, and other nutrient details based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
- Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
- Yes, with only 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, this Cajun Shrimp recipe is well-suited for a low-carb diet.
Tips
- For a deeper infusion of flavor, allow the shrimp to marinate in the spice mixture for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the shrimp to achieve a perfect sear and prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Consider adding a splash of lime juice at the end for a fresh and tangy twist to balance the spices.
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet – If you don’t already have a non-stick skillet, you might need to purchase one to effectively cook the shrimp without them sticking to the pan.
