Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with this mouthwatering Grilled Cajun Lemon Shrimp recipe! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's bursting with zesty Cajun spices, bright citrus notes, and perfectly grilled succulent shrimp. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises to impress your family and friends with its bold flavors and stunning presentation.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the shrimp. Ensure that the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the juice of 1 lemon. Toss the shrimp well to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat and allow it to heat up for a few minutes.
- Once the grill is hot, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
- While the shrimp are grilling, chop the fresh parsley and set it aside for garnish.
- Once the shrimp are done cooking, carefully remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the grilled shrimp with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with the chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
- Serve the grilled Cajun lemon shrimp immediately, either on their own or with your choice of sides such as rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Tips
- Shrimp Selection: Always choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best taste and texture. Look for firm, translucent shrimp with a mild sea-like smell.
- Marinating Magic: Don't skip the marinating step! Those 10-15 minutes allow the Cajun seasoning and lemon juice to penetrate the shrimp, creating deeper, more intense flavors.
- Skewer Secrets: If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. For easier handling, consider using metal skewers.
- Grill Temperature: Maintain a medium-high heat to achieve those beautiful grill marks without overcooking the shrimp. They cook quickly, so watch them closely!
- Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough.
- Garnish Generously: The fresh parsley isn't just for looks – it adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the spicy Cajun seasoning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 170mg
