BAKED CAJUN SHRIMP

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a delightful dish that captures the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the convenience of oven baking. It’s quick to prepare and makes for a perfect appetizer or main course. With a tantalizing blend of herbs and spices, this recipe promises a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients:

  • 12 Shrimp, Peeled, Deveined, Cooked
  • 1 tablespoon Canola Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Thyme Leaves
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground Oregano

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with foil and lightly oiling the foil with cooking spray.
  2. Place the cooked shrimp in a mixing bowl and add the canola oil. Cover the bowl and gently shake until all the shrimp are evenly coated with the oil.
  3. In a small bowl with a lid, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, and ground oregano.
  4. Add the spice mixture to the shrimp bowl, cover it again, and gently shake until all the shrimp are coated with the seasonings.
  5. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared cookie sheet.
  6. Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes.
  7. Serve the baked Cajun shrimp warm, accompanied by slices of lemon wedges for an added zest.

Tips:

  • Ensure the shrimp are fully cooked before baking them with the spices.
  • Adjust the level of cayenne pepper according to your desired spice preference.
  • You can customize the seasoning blend by adding other Cajun spices or herbs for more complexity.
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice can be drizzled over the shrimp before serving to enhance the flavors.
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Conclusion:
Baked Cajun Shrimp offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy the bold taste of Cajun cuisine. With a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, these succulent shrimp are bound to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the delightful combination of spices and savor the taste of Louisiana with every bite!

1. Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cooked shrimp, you can certainly use raw shrimp. Just ensure that you peel and devein the shrimp before proceeding with the recipe. When using raw shrimp, you will need to adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they are thoroughly cooked. Raw shrimp typically take a bit longer to cook compared to pre-cooked shrimp. Keep an eye on them as they bake to prevent overcooking, which can result in tough and rubbery shrimp.

2. Can I prepare the Cajun seasoning mix in advance?
Certainly! Preparing the Cajun seasoning mix in advance can save you time when you’re ready to cook. Simply combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, and ground oregano in an airtight container. Store the seasoning mix in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When you’re ready to use it, give the container a good shake to ensure the spices are well combined before adding it to the shrimp. This way, you’ll have the seasoning mix ready whenever you crave the delicious flavors of Cajun cuisine.

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3. How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the level of heat to suit my taste preferences?
The level of spiciness in this recipe can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. The amount of cayenne pepper specified in the recipe provides a moderate level of heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Conversely, if you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add additional spices like red pepper flakes or hot sauce. The beauty of homemade seasoning blends is that you have full control over the spice level, allowing you to customize the recipe to your liking.

4. Can I grill the Cajun shrimp instead of baking them in the oven?
Absolutely! Grilling the Cajun shrimp is another fantastic option that adds a delightful smoky flavor to the dish. To grill the shrimp, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp. Grill the shrimp for approximately 2-3 minutes per side or until they are pink and opaque. Be sure to monitor them closely to prevent overcooking. Once they’re done, remove the shrimp from the grill and serve them warm with lemon wedges. Grilled Cajun shrimp make for a fantastic appetizer or main course, perfect for outdoor gatherings or barbecue parties.

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