Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and takes just 25 minutes to prepare? Look no further than this Quick and Easy Cajun Shrimp recipe! Perfectly seasoned shrimp sautéed with vibrant bell peppers and onions create a mouthwatering meal that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Louisiana. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into the details below and discover how to whip up this delectable dish that’s both simple and sensational!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they will brown properly and crisp up during cooking.
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the spice blend.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the pan is hot.
- Add diced bell pepper and onion to the skillet, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and become slightly translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, allowing each piece to touch the pan's surface for maximum browning.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop a slight golden-brown color.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Tips
- Pat the Shrimp Dry: For the best texture, make sure to pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps them brown beautifully and avoids steaming in the pan.
- Even Coating: When tossing the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensure each piece is evenly coated for a consistent flavor throughout the dish.
- Preheat the Skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the butter and oil. This will help achieve that perfect golden-brown color on the shrimp.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the shrimp in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows for better browning and prevents steaming.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dish before serving. If you think it needs a little more kick, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or salt to suit your palate.
- Garnish for Freshness: Consider garnishing your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking while the shrimp are still juicy and the vegetables are vibrant. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 244kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 172mg
