Blackened Shrimp

Introduction:
Experience the bold and spicy flavors of Blackened Shrimp! This dish features shrimp coated in a homemade blackening seasoning and pan-seared to perfection, delivering a crispy exterior and juicy interior. It’s a quick and flavorful recipe that works beautifully as a main course or appetizer, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick to prepare: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for a fast yet impressive meal.
• Bursting with flavor: The homemade blackening seasoning creates a spicy, smoky crust.
• Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, over a salad, or in tacos.
• Healthy: Packed with protein and low in carbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

• Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a crispier texture.

1. Make the Blackening Seasoning:

• In a small bowl, mix together paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

1. Season the Shrimp:

• Toss the shrimp with the blackening seasoning until evenly coated.

1. Cook the Shrimp:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through with a blackened crust.

1. Serve:

• Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips for Success:

• Heat: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp to achieve a proper blackened crust.
• Shrimp Size: Adjust the cooking time if using smaller or larger shrimp.
• Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Recipe Variations:

• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper for extra heat or add a pinch of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
• Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs, like basil or rosemary, for a unique twist on the seasoning.
• Grilled Shrimp: For a smoky flavor, try grilling the shrimp instead of pan-searing.

Serving Suggestions:

• Salads: Serve over a bed of mixed greens or a refreshing avocado and tomato salad.
• Tacos: Use the shrimp as a filling for tacos with shredded cabbage and a zesty lime crema.
• Rice or Quinoa: Pair with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking.

Special Equipment:

• Skillet: A heavy-duty skillet is best for achieving the blackened effect on the shrimp.

FAQ:

• Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
  While you can use pre-cooked shrimp, the blackening seasoning will not adhere as well, and the shrimp may not achieve the same crispy texture.
• Can I make the seasoning ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the blackening seasoning in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
• What if I don’t have all the spices?
  You can adjust the seasoning based on what you have. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper will still provide great flavor.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for seasoning and preparing the shrimp.

Cook Time:

• 6 minutes (3 minutes per side).

Total Time:

• 16 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 220mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g

Blackened Shrimp

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• Author: Julie
• Total Time: 16 minutes

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

• Prepare the Shrimp:
  • Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a crispier texture.
• Make the Blackening Seasoning:
  • In a small bowl, mix together paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
• Season the Shrimp:
  • Toss the shrimp with the blackening seasoning until evenly coated.
• Cook the Shrimp:
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through with a blackened crust.
• Serve:
  • Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with lemon wedges.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes (3 minutes per side)

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 200 kcal
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 220mg

Closing Notes:
Have you tried this Blackened Shrimp recipe? We’d love to hear your feedback! Share your culinary creations in the comments below and tag us on social media with your delicious dishes. Stay tuned for more easy and flavorful recipes!