Looking for a meal that’s big on flavor but low on cleanup? This Cajun Shrimp in Foil is a zesty, savory dish that packs a punch with classic Creole seasonings and a medley of fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hassle-free weekend feast. Plus, with the option to cook fresh or from frozen, it’s incredibly convenient. Let’s dive into the recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
- 24 large shrimp (1 pound), cleaned
- 3 ounces fully cooked turkey/chicken Andouille sausage, very thinly sliced
- 1 medium zucchini (8 ounces), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin strips
- 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F if you’re cooking the shrimp immediately.
- In a medium bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the seasoning until they’re well coated.
- Lay out four large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil on your counter. Divide the sausage slices, zucchini rounds, bell pepper strips, and corn kernels among the foil sheets, placing them in the center.
- Top the vegetable mixture with the seasoned shrimp, then sprinkle each with parsley and basil for that fresh herb flavor.
- Drizzle each serving with olive oil, then fold the foil over the shrimp and vegetables. Seal the edges to form a packet, leaving a bit of space inside for air to circulate.
- If you’re cooking right away, place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for about 13 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
To Freeze and Cook Later:
- Place the uncooked, sealed packets into sealable plastic bags and freeze for up to two months.
- When you’re ready to eat, remove the packets from the freezer and place them on a baking tray in a cold oven.
- Set the oven to 425°F, and once it reaches temperature, continue to cook for 35-40 minutes.
Closing Thoughts:
This Cajun Shrimp in Foil is a versatile dish that’s as easy to make for one as it is for a crowd. It’s a low-carb, high-flavor meal that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Serve it with a side of rice or a crusty piece of bread to soak up all the delicious juices. And the best part? The only cleanup you’ll have is crumpling up the foil and tossing it in the trash. Dinner has never been so simple or so delicious