@Commons Cooks: Summer Spice!

Cajun Buttery Herb Shrimp

Sometimes, a little Southern flavor is the best way to spice up your summer. This scrumptious Cajun-style shrimp recipe turns up the heat without overheating your schedule and it satisfies even the heartiest seafood cravings. This mouthwatering dish is an easy one-pan meal packed with a whole lot of flavor – “sea” for yourself!”

Before getting down to business, consider these important tips when purchasing your shrimp.

1.       Always pay attention to the number of shrimp in the bag. This will give you an idea of the size of the shrimp inside. Name such as jumbo or extra-large can be misleading.

2.      Experts from Eating Well Magazine recommend buying frozen shrimp from your local supermarket to ensure freshness and quality. If you do go to one of the “Grocery Guru” local fish markets, be sure to check the fresh raw shrimp carefully. It should have a firm texture, a mild odor and glisten slightly under light.

Don’t forget to post pictures of your dinner creation to our Facebook page!

Cajun Buttery Herb Shrimp

Prep and cook time: 15 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

·         1 pound large shrimp (31-35 per 1 pound bag), peeled and deveined

·         1 teaspoon creole seasoning (or less for milder flavor

·         6 ounces unsalted butter

·         2 teaspoons minced garlic

·         2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

·         1 teaspoon fresh thyme

·         1 teaspoon fresh oregano

·         ½ teaspoon paprika

·         Juice of ½ lemon or more to taste

·         ½ cup chicken stock

·         Salt and pepper to taste.

Preparation Requirements

·         Medium sized bowl

·         Cast iron or large nonstick skillet

Directions

1.       Wash and clean shrimp under cold water. Set aside in bowl.

2.      Preheat skillet over medium heat for one minute, then add 3 tablespoons of butter.

3.       Season shrimp with creole spice, covering all shrimp evenly.

4.      Add shrimp to pan and sauté (lightly fry) for about 3 -5 minutes shrimp, the remove from pan and set aside.

5.      Add remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and garlic. Stir for 1 minute and allow garlic to become soft and fragrant.

6.      Add, paprika, thyme, oregano, lemon juice and chicken broth to garlic, and bring it to a rapid boil. Upon reaching a boil, turn stove to simmer and continue to cook sauce for 2-3 minutes.

7.       Add cooked shrimp, stir and remove from heat. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.

8.      Serve over pasta or rice, or alongside salad

Grocery Guru Advice

Supermarkets:                               Hannaford, 357 Broadway, Saugus. Whole Foods, 100 Market Street, Lynnfield.

Fresh Shrimp:                                 Andy’s Seafood, 78 Broadway, Saugus, MA (10 minute drive from Lynnfield Commons, link here) Call ahead for selection.