Immerse yourself in a culinary journey down South with this delightful Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe, a dish that marries the simplicity of Midwestern cooking with the vibrant, bold flavors of the South. Perfect for family gatherings, this recipe brings people together, creating memories as rich as the flavors it boasts. On those balmy summer evenings, when the air hums with the songs of cicadas, this dish shines as a testament to communal dining and the joy of shared meals.
Ingredients
2 pounds of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Parsley, chopped for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving
Tin foil
Preparation
Preheat and Prep: Begin by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. As your oven warms, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
Assemble the Packet: Lay a large piece of tin foil on a flat surface, and place the seasoned shrimp in the center. Drizzle with lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to your liking. Seal the edges of the foil, creating a packet that holds in all the flavors.
Bake: Place the foil packet on a baking tray and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Serve with Care: Let the packet rest a moment after removing it from the oven. Then, carefully open it to release the aromatic steam, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
Complement this spicy dish with a side of creamy coleslaw or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the heat. A side of buttery corn on the cob or crusty garlic toast makes for delightful accompaniments, perfect for soaking up the succulent juices.
Variations & Tips:
Add More Veggies: Feel free to include corn on the cob pieces or diced potatoes in the foil packet for a more filling meal.
Adjust the Heat: Tailor the amount of cayenne and red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
Sweeten the Deal: Introduce sliced bell peppers for a hint of sweetness and a splash of color.
Cooking to Perfection: Keep an eye on your shrimp to avoid overcooking; tender shrimp is the goal.
This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is not just about savoring the flavors; it’s about embracing the spirit of southern hospitality and the warmth of shared experiences. So, don your favorite apron, gather your loved ones, and prepare to indulge in a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. Happy cooking!