Baked Cajun Shrimp
Title: Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Shrimp:
- In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake Shrimp:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be cautious not to overcook to maintain their tenderness.
- Garnish:
- Remove the baked Cajun shrimp from the oven. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve:
- Transfer the baked Cajun shrimp to a serving platter. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp.
Time and Intensity:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Intensity: Easy
Note: These Baked Cajun Shrimp are a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. Serve the shrimp over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious Cajun-seasoned juices. Enjoy the bold flavors and simplicity of this dish!
