Barbecue-shrimp
Deliciously Easy Barbecue Shrimp
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful seafood dish, look no further than this Barbecue Shrimp recipe. Inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of New Orleans, this dish combines sautéed shrimp with a tangy Worcestershire-spiked butter sauce. Despite its name, there’s no traditional barbecue involved, but the flavors are smoky and rich, reminiscent of the best southern cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This version of Barbecue Shrimp is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. With less butter than the traditional recipe, it’s a bit lighter but still packed with flavor. Plus, if you keep shrimp in your freezer, you can whip this up anytime for an impromptu dinner delight.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Small bowl
- Large bowl
- Grill or stovetop with a grill pan
- Cooking brush or oil spray
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 1 large clove of garlic
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 pounds shrimp, peeled
- 8 lemon wedges for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preparing the garlic paste. In a small bowl, crush the garlic with the coarse salt. Add the cayenne pepper and paprika.
Step 2: Stir in the olive oil and lemon juice to create a smooth paste.
Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with the garlic paste until they are thoroughly coated.
Step 4: Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan and lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cook the shrimp on the grill for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and cooked through.
Step 6: Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve immediately.
Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your grill or grill pan is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking; they cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked.
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the shrimp in the garlic paste for 15-30 minutes before grilling.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For an extra kick, add a pinch more cayenne pepper.
- Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the paste for a more traditional flavor.
- Serve over a bed of rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating and cooking.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Q: Can I use a different type of seafood?
A: Yes, this recipe works well with scallops or even chunks of firm fish like cod or salmon.
Conclusion
This Barbecue Shrimp recipe is a testament to the flavors of New Orleans – bold, spicy, and utterly delicious. It’s simple enough for a weekday meal but special enough for entertaining. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you might have explored!
