Cajun Shrimp is a bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Juicy shrimp are tossed in a blend of Cajun spices, then seared to perfection, can be served with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Cajun Shrimp
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used, but fresh shrimp tends to have a firmer texture and more flavor. Always opt for peeled and deveined shrimp to make your life easier.
- Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the dish. You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning or create your own with a combination of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and salt. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the shrimp and ensuring they cook evenly.
- Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the rich flavors of the dish and balances out the heat.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an extra layer of flavor to the shrimp.
- Butter: A touch of butter adds richness and a silky finish to the shrimp.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cajun Shrimp
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them while cooking, and remove them from the heat as soon as they’re opaque and pink.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning or substitute with a milder paprika.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have a better texture and flavor compared to frozen shrimp, but frozen shrimp will work if that’s what you have on hand.
- Customize the Seasoning: While Cajun seasoning is traditional, feel free to experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp
- Over Rice: A classic pairing. Serve Cajun Shrimp over a bed of white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- With Vegetables: Pair the shrimp with grilled or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
- In a Salad: Toss Cajun shrimp on top of a fresh salad for a zesty protein boost.
- In Tacos: Serve the shrimp in soft tortillas with fresh salsa, cilantro, and a drizzle of sour cream or avocado for a light and flavorful meal.
How to Store Cajun Shrimp
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 30-second intervals, making sure not to overcook them.
Cajun Shrimp can also be frozen for longer storage. Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
How do I make Cajun seasoning at home?
You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning by combining the following spices: paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, thyme, and salt. Adjust the proportions to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can adjust the spice level by increasing the amount of cayenne pepper or adding a pinch of hot sauce.
Can I use this recipe for other proteins?
Absolutely! While shrimp is the traditional choice, you can use the same seasoning blend for chicken, fish, or even vegetables.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. If they curl tightly into a “C” shape, they are likely overcooked, so be sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they are just done.
Cajun Shrimp (5 Minutes)
Cajun Shrimp is a bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Juicy shrimp are tossed in a blend of Cajun spices, then seared to perfection, can be served with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or more to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, add oregano, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper,. Combine well.
- Add the shrimp and mix until well coated.
- Heat skillet on medium high heat. Add oil, once hot, add the shrimp and fry them for about 3-4 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite dipping.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 237Total Fat 6gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 359mgSodium 1744mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 39g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Check my other shrimp recipes:
Final Thoughts
Cajun Shrimp is an incredibly flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or as the star of the meal, its bold spices and succulent shrimp are always a hit. With its simple ingredients and versatile preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
