Oven Baked Shrimp
If you’re looking for a delightful way to prepare shrimp, oven baking is a fantastic option. It’s quick and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for busy nights. You’ll discover how easy it is to achieve a crispy coating without the mess of frying. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste. Want to know the steps to make this delicious dish? Let’s break it down.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you try this oven-baked shrimp recipe, you’ll quickly discover how easy and delicious it is.
First, the shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll only need a few simple ingredients, like garlic, lemon, and your favorite seasonings, which means you won’t have to spend hours shopping or prepping.
Plus, baking shrimp allows for even cooking and a tender texture, unlike frying, which can dry it out. You can easily customize the flavors to suit your taste, whether you prefer spicy, tangy, or savory.
Finally, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from rice to vegetables, making it a versatile option for any meal. Enjoy your cooking!
History
Oven-baked shrimp has a rich history that reflects culinary traditions from various cultures around the world. Shrimp has been enjoyed for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Different regions developed their own cooking methods, often incorporating local spices and flavors. In coastal communities, baking shrimp became popular, as it allowed for easy preparation while enhancing the natural taste of the seafood.
Over time, recipes evolved, influenced by trade and migration, integrating diverse ingredients and techniques. Today, oven-baked shrimp is a beloved dish in many households, combining tradition with modern convenience.
Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet town, this dish connects you to a global history of culinary creativity.
Recipe
Oven Baked Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness and tenderness of shrimp with a crispy, flavorful coating. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, as it requires minimal preparation and can be ready in under 30 minutes. The shrimp are seasoned and baked until golden brown, providing a deliciously satisfying crunch that pairs well with a variety of dips and sides.
To enhance the flavor of the shrimp, you can experiment with different seasonings and herbs. Adding lemon zest or fresh garlic can elevate the dish, while a sprinkle of paprika can give it a smoky undertone. This dish isn’t only easy to make but also healthy, as it uses baking instead of frying, allowing you to enjoy all the flavors without the added fat. Serve your oven baked shrimp with a fresh salad or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to guarantee the seasonings are evenly distributed.
3. In another bowl, toss the shrimp with the olive oil until they’re well coated. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the shrimp.
4. Dip each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to confirm the coating adheres well. Place the coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and the coating is golden brown. The exact time may vary based on the size of the shrimp.
6. Remove from the oven and let the shrimp cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
For the best results, make sure to use fresh shrimp and adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a little heat, consider adding cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Additionally, you can prepare the shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking, which makes it a convenient option for entertaining. Enjoy your delicious oven baked shrimp!
Final Thoughts
Enjoying your oven baked shrimp can be a delightful experience, and there are a few final thoughts to keep in mind.
First, remember to choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If you plan to marinate, allow at least 30 minutes for the flavors to blend, but don’t overdo it.
Keep an eye on the cooking time; shrimp cooks quickly, usually needing just 8 to 10 minutes in the oven. You want them pink and opaque, not rubbery.
Pair your shrimp with side dishes like rice or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Finally, don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your perfect combination. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ
What questions do you have about making oven baked shrimp? One common question is about the best temperature to cook shrimp.
You’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for ideal results.
Another frequent inquiry is how long to bake them. Typically, shrimp need about 8-10 minutes, but keep an eye on them; they cook quickly.
You might also wonder about seasoning. Feel free to experiment with spices, garlic, or even lemon juice to enhance flavor.
If you’re using frozen shrimp, remember to thaw them first.
Finally, many ask about serving suggestions. Oven baked shrimp pair well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your cooking and feel free to ask more questions if needed!