Description
A quick, flavorful dish featuring plump shrimp in a smoky tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup chicken, seafood, or vegetable stock
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, grits, or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Season the shrimp: Toss shrimp in a bowl with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Set aside.
- Heat the pan: Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter.
- Soften the vegetables: Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the sauce: Mix in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes until caramelized.
- Add spices and stock: Stir in thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gradually pour in the stock and bring to a simmer.
- Finish the shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer in the sauce and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Final seasoning: Stir in parsley and adjust with salt, pepper, or hot sauce to taste.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of rice, grits, or bread.
Notes
Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure proper browning. Don’t overcook shrimp as they can turn rubbery quickly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun