CAJUN SHRIMP IN FOIL
After creating the delightful Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet, I knew that crafting a foil pack version was a must! Our family absolutely adored the skillet, and I might have loved it even more for its simplicity and flavor. Foil packets are incredibly popular now, and this one is sure to be a hit.
Foil packets offer a complete meal with minimal cleanup. They’re versatile enough to be grilled, baked, or even cooked over a campfire. The beauty of the shrimp and sausage combination is that it cooks quickly, ready to be enjoyed in just minutes.
While the shrimp and sausage duo is fantastic on its own, it shines even brighter when paired with fresh, crisp summer vegetables. I enjoy adding zucchini, banana squash, asparagus, and bell peppers for a quick-cooking, flavorful meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cajun Shrimp in Foil recipe is not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. It’s a complete meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or outdoor adventures. The combination of savory shrimp and sausage with fresh vegetables and a hint of Cajun spice creates a delightful flavor explosion.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
- 24 (1 pound) cleaned large shrimp
- 3 ounces fully cooked Turkey/Chicken Andouille sausage (Applegate), very thinly sliced
- 1 medium zucchini (8 ounces), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin strips
- 1 1/2 cups corn kernels
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat.
- Place 4 large (10 x 18-inch) pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil on a flat surface.
- Divide the sausage, zucchini, bell peppers, and corn among the foil pieces, placing the vegetables in the center of each. Top each with shrimp (about 6), sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon of parsley and 1 tablespoon of basil.
- Drizzle each with 1 tablespoon of the wine and about 1/2 tablespoon of the oil. Fold each piece of foil to form a packet, sealing tightly and leaving a little room inside for air to circulate. The packets may be refrigerated (or frozen) at this stage.
- To cook, preheat the oven to 425°F. Arrange the packets on a baking sheet and cook until the shrimp is cooked through and the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 13 minutes. Open the packets slowly, being cautious of the hot steam. Transfer the shrimp, vegetables, and sauce to individual bowls or rimmed plates.
- To freeze and heat: Place uncooked packets into sealable plastic bags, keeping them level and upright. (Two packets fit well into a gallon-sized bag). Freeze for up to two months. There is no need to thaw before cooking. Remove the frozen packets from the bags and place them on a baking tray in a cold oven set to 425°F. Once the oven comes to temperature, continue to cook for 35-40 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your foil packets are sealed tightly to trap steam and flavors.
- Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Taste the Cajun seasoning before using it to adjust the spiciness to your preference.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Swap out the vegetables for your seasonal favorites.
- Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- If you prefer a less spicy dish, use a mild sausage or reduce the Cajun seasoning.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Yield: 4 Servings, Serving Size: 1 packet
- Freestyle Points: 4
- Points +: 8
- Calories: 310 calories
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 188.5mg
- Sodium: 1318mg
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 29g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Just make sure to cut them to similar sizes for even cooking.
Can I prepare the packets in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the packets a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to two months.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own Cajun seasoning using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
Conclusion
This Cajun Shrimp in Foil recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make meal. Whether you cook it in the oven, on the grill, or over a campfire, it promises to deliver delicious results every time. I invite you to give it a try and share your experiences. Happy cooking!