Here’s a flavorful recipe for Cajun Shrimp, perfect for adding a bit of spice and bold flavors to your meal! These shrimp are seasoned with Cajun spices and cooked to juicy perfection. They can be served over rice, in tacos, or even on top of pasta!
Cajun Shrimp Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the shrimp in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
- Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and slightly charred on the edges. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they cook quickly.
- Finish the Dish
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the shrimp and toss them to coat in the juices.
- Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Cajun shrimp over rice, pasta, or in warm tortillas for tacos.
- Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
- For a more decadent meal, serve with a side of garlic butter dipping sauce.
Tips and Variations
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have store-bought Cajun seasoning, you can easily make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and salt.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper to the seasoning if you like your dish extra spicy.
- Add Veggies: For a one-pan meal, sauté bell peppers, onions, or zucchini in the skillet before adding the shrimp.