Description
This flavorful Cajun Shrimp recipe features succulent large shrimp cooked quickly in a homemade Cajun butter blend with garlic and fresh herbs, delivering a spicy and aromatic dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp Preparation
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (450g)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cajun Butter
- 2 tablespoons room temperature butter
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon cilantro or parsley leaves, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons homemade Cajun seasoning
- Salt, as needed
Cooking
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Place the shrimp in a colander and toss with ¼ teaspoon salt. Let them sit for 1 minute to firm up, then rinse under cold water and pat very dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
- Make flavored butter: In a small bowl, combine the room temperature butter, finely minced garlic, minced cilantro or parsley, and homemade Cajun seasoning. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful Cajun butter. Set this aside for later use.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan, arranging them in a single layer, allowing some overlap if necessary. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the shrimp begin to turn pink and start to curl.
- To finish: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the prepared Cajun butter to the skillet. Stir well to evenly coat the shrimp with the butter mixture. Continue cooking and stirring for 1 to 2 minutes until the shrimp become firm and opaque throughout, ensuring they are perfectly cooked and infused with the Cajun flavors.
Notes
- You can prepare the Cajun butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for longer storage.
- Ensure shrimp are patted very dry before cooking to achieve optimal sear and prevent steaming.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried parsley or cilantro can be used, but reduce the quantity slightly.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture; overcooked shrimp may become tough.
