Cajun Grilled Shrimp (21 Minutes)

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Get ready to savor the bold and spicy flavors of Cajun grilled shrimp in this super delicious recipe that can be prepared in just 21 minutes. Bursting with Cajun seasonings and a hint of smokiness from the grill, these succulent shrimp are a true delight for seafood lovers. Each bite is a burst of flavor with a perfect balance of heat and tanginess. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick meal, this is a crowd-pleaser that will transport your taste buds to the Louisiana bayou.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Total Time: 21 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
  • Parsley for garnish, if desired

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.
  2. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
  3. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the Cajun spice mixture. Let the shrimp marinate for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, if desired, or place them directly on the grill grates. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
  5. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for a burst of citrusy flavor and top with parsley if desired.
  6. Serve the Cajun grilled shrimp immediately with additional lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Use fresh and high-quality shrimp for the best results. Look for shrimp that are firm, with a mild briny scent. If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the shrimp on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler in the oven. Serve the Cajun shrimp with hush puppies, collard greens, or rice and beans for a delicious Southern-inspired meal!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 178
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 771mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 230mg

Pair this with...

Hush Puppies

To whip up a batch of hush puppies, combine cornmeal, a bit of all-purpose flour, some baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. For that signature hint of sweetness, toss in a small amount of sugar. Mix in a beaten egg, a splash of milk, and diced onions to give your hush puppies some bite and depth. Now, heat up a pot of oil (or use a deep fryer if you have one) to about 365°F (185°C). Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil. They'll quickly puff up and turn a mouthwatering shade of golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn them occasionally, ensuring an even fry. Once they're crispy and golden all around, scoop them out onto a paper towel to drain. Serve them hot with a side of tartar sauce or your favorite dip.

Southern Style Collard Greens

"Start by selecting a hearty bunch of fresh collard greens, washing them thoroughly and removing the tough stems. Slice the greens into broad ribbons and set them aside. In a large pot, sauté some diced onions until translucent. Add chunks of savory ham, letting the meat brown slightly and release its smoky aroma. Once the ham is sizzling, pile in your collard greens. They'll seem towering at first, but they'll wilt down significantly. Pour in some chicken broth for added depth and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick. Let everything simmer slowly, melding the flavors together.

Easy Corn Bread

Begin by preheating your oven and greasing a baking pan. In a mixing bowl, combine equal parts cornmeal and all-purpose flour. Add in some sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, an egg, and melted butter or oil. Now, merge the wet ingredients with the dry, stirring just until everything comes together. Pour this batter into your prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake until the top turns a lovely golden hue and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for a moment, then slice and serve.

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