Ingredients
– 2 pounds of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Parsley, chopped for garnish
– Lemon wedges, for serving
– Tin foil
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Gather your shrimp and make sure they’ve been properly introduced to your seasoning. In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Give it a tender mix, so all the shrimp are wearing that seasoning like a well-fitted gown.
2. Tear off a sizable piece of tin foil and lovingly place your seasoned shrimp in the center. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top and sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Bring the edges of the foil together to create a cozy packet, sealing it well enough to keep all those spicy juices from making an escape while they bake.
4. Place the foil packet on a baking tray and let it bake in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, just until that shrimp is pink and telling you it’s ready to be devoured.
5. Careful now, don’t go burning those careful hands. Let it rest for a brief moment when you take it out, then open the packet, and you’ll be greeted by a steamy, aromatic wonder.
6. Serve it straight from the foil for a no-fuss cleanup, garnish with parsley, and present your lemon wedges on the side for a bright squeeze over the top.
Variations & Tips
If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chunks of corn on the cob or peeled, diced potatoes for a heartier feast. Now, some folks are sensitive to spice; if that’s you, it’s just fine to reduce the cayenne and red pepper flakes to suit your palate.
For an added touch of sweetness, a half cup of sliced bell peppers can add a rainbow of color and flavors that’ll complement the Cajun spices. Keep in mind, sugar, that the key to that perfect shrimp is not to overcook it—nobody enjoys a tough shrimp. Lastly, don’t you forget to wear your prettiest apron and cook with love – it’s the most important ingredient, after all.