Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce

Recipe by LoveTheWild.comCourse: MainCuisine: Cajun-InspiredDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

400

kcal

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:
1 pound sustainably sourced shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Salt to taste
For the Cajun Cream Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Cream and Spices: Pour in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until it begins to thicken.
Finish the Sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce and stir to coat the shrimp well.
Serve: Serve the shrimp with Cajun cream sauce hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Enjoy: Your delicious and sustainable Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce is ready to enjoy!

Notes

Ensure that the shrimp are sustainably sourced to support environmental conservation. Look for certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council).
Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

In the culinary world, marrying the concept of sustainability with bold flavors can be a delightful challenge. Today, we dive into a recipe that does just that: Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce. This dish brings together the succulence of sustainably sourced shrimp with the rich, spicy notes of Cajun cuisine, creating a meal that’s as responsible as it is indulgent.

Choosing Your Ingredients:

Sustainably Sourced Shrimp: The key ingredient, shrimp, should be sustainably sourced. Look for certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) to ensure you’re making an environmentally friendly choice.
Quality Spices: The essence of Cajun flavor lies in its spice blend. Fresh, quality spices will provide the best flavor.
Fresh Cream and Parmesan: Opt for high-quality heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a rich and smooth sauce.

Preparation and Cooking:

Seasoning the Shrimp: Start by thoroughly coating the shrimp in Cajun seasoning. This not only adds flavor but also ensures an even, delicious crust when seared.
Searing the Shrimp: Heat your skillet before adding the oil and then the shrimp. A hot skillet ensures a good sear, locking in the flavors and juices of the shrimp. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each shrimp gets properly cooked.
Building the Sauce: After removing the shrimp, use the same skillet to develop your sauce. Sauteing onions and garlic in the remnants adds depth to the flavor. Be mindful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Creating the Cream Base: When adding your cream, let it simmer but not boil over. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combining the Ingredients: Add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce just long enough to warm them through. Overcooking can make the shrimp tough.

Chef’s Tips:

Always pat the shrimp dry before seasoning. This helps the spices stick and ensures a better sear.
Adjust the heat of your Cajun spice to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper.
Fresh parsley not only adds flavor but also gives a vibrant color contrast to the dish.

Plating and Serving:

Serve the Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce over a bed of cooked rice, pasta, or with crusty bread. The sauce is rich and flavorful, perfect for being soaked up by a starchy side. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh finish.

Conclusion:

Our Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to how sustainable choices can lead to delicious outcomes. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also aligns with eco-friendly practices, proving that you can enjoy incredible flavors while caring for our oceans.

Bon Appétit!

Sustainable Seafood with a Kick: Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce