CAJUN SHRIMP IN FOIL

Cajun Shrimp in Foil is a simple yet vibrant meal that combines spicy shrimp, smoky Andouille sausage, fresh veggies, and a touch of white wine. Each foil packet steams the ingredients to tender, juicy perfection, locking in the bold Cajun flavors. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal-prep friendly option, this recipe is easy to make and a treat for the senses!

Why You’ll Love Cajun Shrimp in Foil:

Bold Cajun Flavor: Cajun seasoning brings a spicy, smoky flavor that complements the shrimp, sausage, and veggies beautifully.
No Mess, No Fuss: Everything cooks in foil packets, meaning minimal cleanup and no need for extra pots or pans.
Quick Cooking: Ready in under 20 minutes in the oven, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
Freezer-Friendly: Prep these packets ahead, freeze, and bake when you’re ready, making it an ideal meal-prep option.
Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.

Key Ingredients:

1. Cajun Seasoning

Flavorful Base: The Cajun or Creole seasoning mix is the foundation of this recipe, providing the smoky, spicy notes characteristic of Cajun cuisine.
Make Your Own: If you prefer, you can make your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.
Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of seasoning to suit your spice tolerance; add more for a spicier kick or less for a milder dish.

2. Shrimp

Size Matters: Large shrimp (about 24 per pound) are ideal for this recipe as they cook evenly with the other ingredients.
Peel and Devein: For ease of eating, use cleaned shrimp that are peeled and deveined.
Fresh or Frozen: Either works, but if using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them fully before cooking.

3. Andouille Sausage

Adds Smokiness: Andouille sausage is traditional in Cajun dishes and adds a rich, smoky flavor.
Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well. For a spicier bite, try chorizo.

4. Vegetables (Zucchini, Bell Pepper, and Corn)

Color and Crunch: The combination of zucchini, bell pepper, and corn brings sweetness, color, and texture to the dish.
Substitutions: Feel free to swap with other quick-cooking vegetables like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or sliced mushrooms.

5. White Wine

Adds Depth: A splash of dry white wine, like Pinot Grigio, adds a subtle acidity that enhances the flavor.
Non-Alcoholic Option: If you prefer to skip the wine, substitute with chicken or vegetable broth.

6. Herbs (Parsley and Basil)

Brightens the Dish: Fresh parsley and basil bring a fragrant, fresh note that complements the bold Cajun spices.
Alternative Herbs: Cilantro or thyme can be used for a different flavor profile.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss until they’re well-coated with the seasoning. This ensures bold flavors with every bite of shrimp.

2. Assemble the Foil Packets

Prepare the Foil: Lay out 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 10 x 18 inches, on a flat surface.
Arrange Ingredients: Divide the sliced sausage, zucchini, bell peppers, and corn equally among the foil sheets, placing the vegetables in the center of each sheet.
Add Shrimp: Top each vegetable pile with 6 seasoned shrimp.
Add Herbs: Sprinkle each packet with 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon of fresh basil for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Season and Seal

Add Liquid: Drizzle each packet with 1 tablespoon of white wine and about 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. This helps create a steaming effect, cooking the shrimp and vegetables gently.
Seal the Packets: Fold each foil sheet to form a packet, sealing it tightly but leaving a little room inside for air to circulate.

4. Cooking Options

Oven Method:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Arrange the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for about 13 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Freezer Option:
Prepare the packets as directed but don’t cook them. Place the uncooked packets in sealable plastic bags, keeping them level and upright.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
To Cook: Take the frozen packets out of the plastic bags and place them on a baking sheet in a cold oven set to 425°F. Once the oven reaches temperature, bake for 35-40 minutes.

5. Serve

Open Carefully: Use caution when opening the packets, as the hot steam can escape quickly.
Plate the Meal: Transfer the shrimp, vegetables, and the flavorful juices to individual bowls or rimmed plates.

Serving Suggestions:

Cajun Shrimp in Foil is delightful on its own, but pairing it with one of these sides makes for an even more satisfying meal:

Rice or Quinoa: Serve over rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious Cajun sauce.
Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful juices.
Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the spice.
Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve with roasted or mashed potatoes.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

This recipe is perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked packets for up to 2 months. Once cooked, freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the shrimp.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of broth to keep everything moist, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Variations to Try:

Customize this recipe with these tasty variations:

Add Potatoes: Add thinly sliced baby potatoes to the packets for a heartier dish. Increase baking time by a few minutes to ensure the potatoes are tender.
Swap Shrimp for Fish: Use a white fish like cod or tilapia in place of shrimp for a different protein.
Spicy Cajun Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning for more heat.
Lemon Garlic Flavor: Add lemon zest and garlic to the packets along with the Cajun seasoning for a fresh citrusy twist.

Conclusion:

Cajun Shrimp in Foil is a quick, flavorful dish that’s packed with everything you need for a satisfying meal. From the bold spices to the tender shrimp and veggies, each packet is bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight or cooking up a casual dinner party dish, this recipe is sure to impress! Enjoy every spicy, savory bite!