Three Amazing Ways to Cook Shrimp

Shrimp is a versatile and quick-to-cook seafood that can be prepared in a variety of delicious ways. Whether you’re grilling, frying, or baking, shrimp brings a delightful and savory flavor to the table. In this post, we’ll explore three mouthwatering shrimp recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. These recipes include Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, Bang Bang Shrimp, and Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp. Each method offers a unique flavor profile, from cheesy and garlicky to spicy and tangy.

Recipe 1: Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 12 oz frozen shrimp, thawed, shelled, and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons lemon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup fresh shredded Parmigiano Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat dry your shrimp with a paper towel and place them in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Seasoning: Add olive oil, lemon pepper, salt, garlic powder, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese to the shrimp. Toss the shrimp to coat evenly.
3. Air Frying: Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Set the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 10 minutes, turning the shrimp halfway through cooking.
4. Serving: Serve your shrimp with a cocktail sauce, over pasta, or in a salad.

Benefits:

Air frying reduces the amount of oil used, making this a healthier alternative to traditional frying. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor while the garlic enhances the aroma, giving you a flavorful and nutritious meal.

Recipe 2: Bang Bang Shrimp

Ingredients:

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha sauce, to taste

For the Fried Shrimp:

• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
• Canola or peanut oil for frying
• 3/4 cup cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Add the shrimp to coat evenly.
3. Frying: Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan until it reaches 375°F. Place cornstarch in a shallow dish. Dip each shrimp into the cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Fry shrimp in batches for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
4. Toss and Serve: Remove the shrimp and drain on paper towels. Toss the fried shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce and serve warm.

Benefits:

The use of buttermilk helps to tenderize the shrimp, ensuring they stay juicy and flavorful. The combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors from the sauce creates a delightful contrast, making this a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe 3: Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp
• 4 tbsp salted butter
• 6 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp oyster sauce
• 2 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Garlic: Place a light-colored pan over medium heat. Add butter and garlic, and cook for 5-8 minutes until the garlic turns golden brown.
2. Seasoning: Add Cajun seasoning, thyme, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
3. Cooking the Shrimp: Add the oyster sauce and lemon juice. Toss the shrimp into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove the pan from the stove and serve the shrimp hot, either on its own or with a side of rice or vegetables.

Benefits:

The combination of butter and Cajun seasoning creates a rich, bold flavor that is both spicy and savory. Shrimp are high in protein, low in fat, and full of essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.

History of Shrimp in Cuisine

Shrimp has been a staple of many cultures for centuries. It’s believed that shrimp were first harvested in ancient times, with evidence of shrimp farming found in China as early as 6000 BC. The popularity of shrimp surged in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, where it was used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to fried and grilled preparations. Today, shrimp remains one of the most beloved seafood options worldwide, enjoyed in everything from casual seafood boils to gourmet dishes in fine dining establishments.

Nutritional Information

Shrimp are low in calories, rich in protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals. A 3-ounce serving of cooked shrimp typically contains:

• Calories: 84
• Protein: 18 grams
• Fat: 1 gram
• Carbs: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 166 mg
• Sodium: 820 mg
• Vitamin B12: 20% of the daily value
• Selenium: 48% of the daily value

These nutritional benefits make shrimp a heart-healthy and weight-conscious option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to make the crispy, garlicky, and cheesy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, the flavorful and spicy Bang Bang Shrimp, or the rich and savory Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp, each recipe offers a unique take on how to prepare shrimp. Not only are these recipes easy to follow, but they are also loaded with flavor and packed with nutrients. These dishes are perfect for a quick dinner, special occasions, or even a seafood-themed party. Enjoy the taste of these delicious shrimp recipes and share them with your loved ones for a satisfying culinary experience!