Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (450g)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (for shrimp prep)
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
Cajun Butter
- 2 tablespoons room temperature butter
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon cilantro or parsley leaves, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons homemade cajun seasoning (see tips)
- Salt, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Place the shrimp in a colander and toss with ¼ teaspoon salt. Let them sit for 1 minute to lightly cure, then rinse under cold water and pat very dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Make flavored butter: In a small bowl, combine the room temperature butter, finely minced garlic, minced cilantro or parsley, and cajun seasoning. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth, evenly spiced cajun butter. Set aside for later use.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan, arranging them in a single layer; it’s acceptable if a few shrimp overlap slightly. Cook for about 1 minute until the shrimp begin to turn pink on one side.
- To finish: Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the prepared cajun butter to the skillet. Stir well to coat all the shrimp evenly with the butter and spices. Continue cooking and stirring for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the shrimp are firm, opaque, and fully cooked through.
Notes
- The homemade cajun seasoning can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for convenience.
- You can swap cilantro for parsley depending on your flavor preference.
- To keep shrimp extra juicy, avoid overcooking; shrimp cook quickly and should be removed as soon as they turn opaque.
- The cajun butter can be prepared ahead and kept refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
