Shell On Shrimp Recipe
You’ll love cooking shell-on shrimp for its great flavor and nutrients. Start with 1 pound of deveined shrimp. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet, then add 4 minced garlic cloves and sliced lemon. Once the oil’s hot, place the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn bright pink and opaque. You’ll discover cooking tips and benefits soon.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
When you choose to cook shell-on shrimp, you’re not just opting for a tasty dish; you’re also reaping numerous benefits.
First, shell-on shrimp is high in protein, providing 23 grams per 4-ounce serving, while being low in calories at just 120 calories. The shells offer additional nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12, essential for brain health.
Flavor-wise, cooking shrimp in their shells enhances the savory umami taste due to ribonucleotides and aromatic compounds. Additionally, keeping the shells on allows flavorful essence to penetrate the meat, creating a richer taste experience.
You’ll also enjoy practical cooking advantages, as the shells protect the delicate meat, ensuring it stays tender. Plus, they help prevent overcooking and can be used to make a quick, flavorful stock. Shell-on shrimp truly combines health, flavor, and convenience.
Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shrimp (shell-on, deveined)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 lemon (sliced)
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing your shrimp. If you haven’t already, verify that the shrimp are deveined but keep the shells on to retain moisture and enhance flavor. Pat them dry with paper towels.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling. Add the minced garlic and lemon slices, cooking until fragrant and slightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink.
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Carefully flip the shrimp over and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until they’re fully pink and opaque. Drizzle with lemon juice just before removing from heat.
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Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of rice, bread, or as part of a larger meal. Garlic butter shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served as either an appetizer or a main course.
Extra Tips:
To verify the best results, avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can quickly become rubbery. Keep an eye on the color change; shrimp should be bright pink and opaque when done.
For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a touch of harissa paste for a spicy kick or using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for garnish. Enjoy your perfectly cooked shrimp!
Final Thoughts
Preparing shell-on shrimp can be a rewarding experience, especially when you understand the advantages they offer. Shell-on shrimp maintain better texture and flavor compared to their shell-off counterparts. When selecting shrimp, choose individually quick frozen (IQF) for the best quality. Additionally, it’s important to note that shrimp is the most consumed seafood in the USA, averaging 4.6 lbs per person each year.
Deveining is optional; it mainly affects appearance and can reduce bitterness. To avoid rubbery shrimp, don’t overcook—use ice baths to stop the cooking process. Cooking techniques like boiling, searing, and poaching can enhance the shrimp’s taste and texture. Always check for freshness by avoiding shrimp with an ammonia smell or sliminess.
Finally, enjoy the nutritional benefits—shell-on shrimp are low in calories and high in protein, making them a healthy choice for your meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just cook them directly from the freezer, and they’ll retain their flavor and moisture. No thawing’s necessary, making your meal preparation quick and easy!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Shell on Shrimp?
Imagine a vibrant dinner table. You can pair shell-on shrimp with roasted mini potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh corn salad. Each side adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the shrimp’s natural flavors beautifully. Enjoy your feast!
How Do I Store Leftover Shell on Shrimp?
To store leftover shrimp, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I Substitute Shrimp With Another Seafood?
You can certainly explore the ocean’s bounty! Crabs, prawns, or even delicate scallops can step in for shrimp. Just keep in mind to adjust cooking times and techniques for the best results. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
What Type of Seasoning Works Best for Shell on Shrimp?
When seasoning shrimp, you’ll love garlic butter for richness, Old Bay for a classic seafood flavor, or blackening seasoning for a spicy kick. Experiment with herbs and citrus to enhance your dish’s overall taste!
