Description
This Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp recipe offers a bold and spicy flavor with a perfectly charred crust. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is ideal for a fast, satisfying seafood meal. The shrimp are coated in a flavorful blend of Cajun spices and quickly pan-seared in olive oil, making for a simple yet delicious dinner option. Serve with an optional homemade remoulade sauce for added zest.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Remoulade Sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Whole grain mustard
- Capers
- Horseradish
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, dried thyme, black pepper, and onion powder thoroughly to create a balanced and flavorful spice blend.
- Coat the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them with the seasoning mix until each shrimp is evenly coated with the spices, ensuring maximum flavor coverage.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating it is hot enough for cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a charred crust to form. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the skillet and serve immediately. Optionally, accompany with a homemade remoulade sauce made from mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, capers, and horseradish for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding shrimp to achieve the signature blackened crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan – cook shrimp in batches if needed to maintain a nice sear.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spiciness according to taste.
- Remoulade sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated to save time.
- This dish pairs well with rice, salad, or crusty bread.
