Baked Shrimp Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Seafood Delight
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious seafood recipe? Look no further! This baked shrimp recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal prep time, and is sure to impress your family and friends. Let's dive into the simple steps to create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to your liking. However, here's a basic list to get you started:
- 1 pound large shrimp: Peeled and deveined. You can use frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them completely before baking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides richness and helps the shrimp brown beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced. Garlic adds a pungent and savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the olive oil.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: A smoky spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a touch of heat. Adjust to your spice preference!
- Salt and black pepper: To taste. Season generously!
- Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon wedges: For serving, to squeeze extra lemon juice over the shrimp.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the shrimp bake evenly and become beautifully tender.
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better.
- Mix the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Bake the shrimp: Spread the marinated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Don't overcook them!
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Shrimp:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the shrimp are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Italian seasoning, oregano, or chili powder would also be delicious additions.
- Serve with your favorite sides: This baked shrimp pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Variations and Flavor Combinations:
- Spicy Shrimp: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add 2 tablespoons of melted butter to the marinade for a richer flavor.
- Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano to the marinade.
- Honey Garlic Shrimp: Add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a sweet and savory twist.
This baked shrimp recipe is a winner. Its simplicity, versatility, and deliciousness make it a go-to recipe for any seafood lover. Enjoy!
