Recipe of the Day: Cajun Shrimp

by Kayla Bell

Calling all seafood lovers! Today’s recipe of the day is a flavor explosion waiting to happen – Cajun Shrimp. This dish takes inspiration from the vibrant cuisine of Louisiana, known for its bold spices and smoky flavors. Cajun Shrimp is a quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

 

The star of the show is, of course, the shrimp. Using fresh, plump shrimp ensures the best texture and flavor. The key to success lies in the Cajun seasoning, a unique blend of spices that adds a beautiful depth of flavor. Common ingredients in Cajun seasoning include paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.

This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or more to taste
• 1 (10 ounces) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (such as RO*TEL® Chunky)
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (such as Hunt’s®)
• ⅓ cup water
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the Shrimp: In a sealable plastic bag, combine the paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add the shrimp and shake to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Build the Sauce: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside. In the same pan, add the diced tomatoes and green chiles, tomato paste, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss to coat them in the flavorful sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Tips:

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning blend to your desired level.
• Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as chopped bell peppers, onions, or celery.
• If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can substitute it with a blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Cajun Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your preferences. With its vibrant flavors and quick cooking time, it’s sure to become a regular go-to meal in your kitchen. So, grab your favorite spices, and some fresh shrimp, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Louisiana with this delicious Cajun Shrimp recipe!

Reference Link

Cajun Shrimp