Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a burst of Cajun flavors? Look no further than this Cajun Shrimp Skillet recipe.
Loaded with succulent shrimp, savory Andouille sausage, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this dish is packed with taste and textures.
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Even better, this can be on the table in about half an hour. That makes it a great weeknight meal when you’re looking for something different.
Cajun Shrimp Skillet Recipe
You’ll need a couple things for this recipe. The first is a good Cajun seasoning. You can definitely make your own Cajun seasoning. This Cajun Shrimp and Veggies can be made in a regular skillet, but it’s exceptional when made in a cast iron skillet.
- Prep time: Approx 15 minutes
- Cook time: Approx 15-20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 3-oz. Cajun Andouille sausage links, sliced
- ½ medium white onion, finely diced
- 2-3 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium orange or red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper (or ½ large), finely diced
- 1-2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 small yellow squash, sliced and cut into half rounds
- 1 small zucchini, sliced and cut into half rounds
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Toss the shrimp with one tablespoon olive oil and one-half tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Set aside.
- Set a large skillet over medium heat and add the Andouille sausage. Cook until the sausage is browned, approximately 4-5 minutes. Transfer sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Add one tablespoon olive oil to the skillet, along with the seasoned shrimp. Cook just until the shrimp is opaque and starts to curl, approximately 2 minutes. Do not overcook. Transfer shrimp to the plate with the sausage.
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet, along with the onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sprinkle with additional Cajun seasoning, to taste. Cook until the vegetables soften and develop color, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the yellow squash and zucchini to the skillet and cook until browned and crisp-tender, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the Andouille sausage, shrimp, and fresh parsley. Stir to combine and serve immediately.
Helpful Hints and Tips
Cajun Seasoning
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preferences. You can start with a smaller quantity and add more if needed. Remember, it’s almost impossible to take spice away.
Vegetable Choices
Feel free to customize the vegetable selection based on what you have on hand or your personal favorites. Bell peppers, squash, and zucchini provide a colorful and tasty combination, but you can experiment with other veggies like eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.
Cooking Time for Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly, so be attentive to avoid overcooking. They are ready when they turn opaque and start to curl. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
Cajun Shrimp Skillet Variations
Protein Options
If you’re not a fan of shrimp or want to try something different, you can substitute it with other proteins like chicken, sliced sausages, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. This is a great way to use up leftovers, too.
Grain Addition
Serve the Cajun Shrimp Skillet over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier meal. The flavorful sauce pairs wonderfully with grains.
Fresh Herbs
Consider garnishing your Cajun Shrimp Skillet with a sprinkle of additional fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon for a pop of color and added brightness.
Enhance the dish with additional fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Ready to savor the bold and spicy flavors of this Cajun Shrimp Skillet? Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, or the family, to a special meal, this recipe is a winner.
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