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This easy Cajun shrimp recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines fresh shrimp with vibrant Cajun seasoning and a touch of lime, making every bite a little celebration of spice and zest. Serving it over rice turns it into a filling and satisfying meal that feels comforting without requiring hours in the kitchen.
I first made this during a busy weeknight, and it quickly became my go-to for when I want a quick dinner with big flavor. My family always asks for seconds, especially when served with a squeeze of fresh lime.
Ingredients
- Olive oil for sautéing: a heart-healthy fat that helps develop flavor and achieve a nice sear on the shrimp
- Large shrimp peeled and deveined: fresh or raw shrimp work best for texture and taste
- Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste: essential for seasoning and bringing out the shrimp’s natural sweetness
- Cajun seasoning: the star of the dish, it lends signature Cajun warmth and complexity, choose a blend with smoked paprika, garlic, and cayenne for a perfect balance
- Lime wedges for serving: provide a refreshing acidity to brighten each bite
- Fresh parsley finely chopped for garnish: adds a pop of color and a mild fresh herb flavor
- Cooked jasmine rice (optional): serves as a fluffy, fragrant base that balances the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the shrimp:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. The oil temperature is key to getting a good sear without steaming the shrimp.
- Season and toss the shrimp:
- In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning. Toss thoroughly to coat each shrimp evenly with spices.
- Cook the shrimp:
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook without moving them for 2 to 3 minutes until the undersides are pink and slightly caramelized. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn fully opaque and firm to touch.
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat and immediately garnish the shrimp with finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve with lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the top. Pair with jasmine rice or your preferred grain to complete the meal.
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My favorite part is the Cajun seasoning blend – it brings such a lively mix of smoky, spicy, and savory notes that transform simple shrimp into something unforgettable. One family dinner I made this for turned into an impromptu celebration of Cajun cooking when everyone requested the recipe. Those joyful meals are why I keep coming back to this dish.
Storage tips
Store leftover cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days to maintain freshness. When reheating, use gentle heat to avoid overcooking, ideally warming in a skillet or microwave briefly with a splash of water.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning handy, create a quick mix using smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. You can substitute lime wedges with lemon slices if needed, and use avocado oil or grapeseed oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile.
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Serving suggestions
This Cajun shrimp pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to balance its spice. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. A simple side salad with a citrus vinaigrette also complements the dish nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of shrimp is best for this dish?
Large, raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined work best to absorb the Cajun seasoning and cook evenly.
- → Can lemon be used instead of lime?
Yes, lemon wedges make a great alternative and will add a similar bright, citrusy note to complement the spices.
- → What oil is recommended for sautéing the shrimp?
Olive oil is preferred for its flavor, but any cooking oil with a high smoke point can be used.
- → How do you know when the shrimp are cooked properly?
Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, which indicates they are done.
- → What are some good serving options with the shrimp?
Serve the shrimp over jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal.