Get ready to ignite your taste buds with a culinary adventure that transports you straight to the heart of Louisiana! Our Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skillet is not just a meal; it's an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this dish features succulent shrimp coated in a zesty Cajun seasoning, perfectly sautéed vegetables, and vibrant cherry tomatoes, all harmoniously coming together in one sizzling skillet. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy. Dive into the delicious details below and discover how to whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting shrimp dry with paper towels and seasoning thoroughly with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coating on all shrimp.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until oil shimmers and is nearly smoking.
- Add chopped onions and diced bell peppers to the skillet, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until vegetables become slightly softened and edges start to caramelize.
- Introduce minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, allowing each piece to make direct contact with the hot surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes on first side until edges turn pink and slightly crisp.
- Flip shrimp and add halved cherry tomatoes, continuing to cook for another 2-3 minutes until shrimp are completely opaque and cooked through.
- Remove skillet from heat and immediately transfer contents to serving platter, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot directly from skillet, optionally accompanied by rice, crusty bread, or over pasta to soak up delicious Cajun-spiced juices.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder dish, start with less seasoning and add more to taste.
- Sautéing Techniques: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the vegetables; this helps achieve a nice caramelization, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the shrimp, make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking. If your skillet isn’t large enough, consider cooking in batches.
- Add a Splash of Acid: For an extra layer of flavor, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish before serving. It brightens up the spices and complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, crusty bread, or even over pasta. Don’t forget to soak up the delicious Cajun-spiced juices!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg
