Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce: A Quick and Flavorful Feast

Craving a taste of Louisiana? This recipe for Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce is your answer. Plump, juicy shrimp are bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce bursting with Cajun spices. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to your desired spice level)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Cooked rice or pasta, for serving (optional)

Cooking Guide:

1. Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the pan and let it melt. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don’t let it brown.
4. Add the Flavor: Increase heat to medium and whisk in the Cajun seasoning and thyme. Cook for 30 seconds more.
5. Finish the Dish: Pour the sauce over the cooked shrimp in the plate. Toss to coat evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with cooked rice or pasta (optional).

Tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Be mindful of the cooking time to avoid rubbery shrimp.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Start with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and adjust to your preference.
• Make it a Complete Meal: Serve the Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce over cooked rice or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant touch to the dish, but dried parsley works in a pinch.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat until warmed through.