why make this recipe
This Blackened Shrimp recipe is quick and full of flavor. You get spicy, charred shrimp in about 10–15 minutes. It uses few ingredients and needs little prep.
introduction
Blackened Shrimp is a simple, bold dish. The shrimp cook fast and get a smoky crust from high heat. It works for weeknight dinners, salads, tacos, or as an appetizer.
how to make Blackened Shrimp
Follow simple steps and cook on high heat. Keep the shrimp hot and serve right away for best taste.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions :
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat a skillet over high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and slightly charred.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
how to serve Blackened Shrimp
Serve the shrimp hot. Put them on rice, pasta, or in tacos. Add a salad or steamed vegetables on the side. Squeeze extra lemon over the top.
how to store Blackened Shrimp
Cool the shrimp to room temperature within two hours. Put them in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warm. Do not refreeze cooked shrimp.
tips to make Blackened Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning so the spice sticks well.
- Use a very hot skillet for a good char.
- Do not crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Watch the shrimp closely; they cook fast and can become rubbery.
- Taste one shrimp and add more lemon or salt if needed.
variation (if any)
- Use lime instead of lemon for a different tang.
- Mix smoked paprika with Cajun seasoning for more smokiness.
- Add garlic powder or cayenne for extra heat.
- Cook shrimp on a grill for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes. Thaw fully and pat dry before seasoning.
Q: Is Cajun seasoning the same as blackening seasoning? A: They are similar. Blackening blends may have more paprika and herbs, but Cajun works fine.
Q: How long do I cook the shrimp? A: About 2–3 minutes per side, until they turn opaque and firm.
Q: Can I make this mild instead of spicy? A: Yes. Use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend.
Q: Can I use butter instead of olive oil? A: You can, but butter can burn at very high heat. Use clarified butter or mix with oil.
Conclusion
For a quick, bold shrimp dish you can try this recipe or see more tips and a similar version at Easy Blackened Shrimp (in 15 Minutes!) – Lauren from Scratch.
Blackened Shrimp
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust according to spice preference.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with clarified butter for a different flavor.
- 1 whole lemon, juiced Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper Add according to preference.
- for garnish Fresh parsley Chopped for presentation.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Cooking
- Heat a skillet over high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and slightly charred.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy on rice, pasta, or in tacos.