Shrimp: Freezer to Table in 15 Minutes

Shrimp: Freezer to Table in 15 Minutes

With shrimp in your freezer, you know you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time at all. It’s true. You might think shrimp is too complicated or too fancy for a weeknight, but nothing could be farther from the truth. Shrimp is like a secret weapon in your dinner arsenal; it cooks fast, goes with nearly everything, and always feels special. The ratio of effort to reward is off the charts.

If you’re still not convinced, here are a few things to help tip the scale:

How to Cook Shrimp

These tasty crustaceans are perfect for weeknight meals. Frozen shrimp are the best to buy. While you might be tempted to think the “fresh” shrimp in the butcher case is better, that’s not the case. Most shrimp you buy in the grocery store has been frozen; you can buy it already thawed from the butcher or still frozen in bags. Frozen in bags or boxes is the better option. Look for shrimp that’s been peeled and deveined to keep your prep time to a minimum.

Frozen shrimp can be thawed in a colander under cool water for three minutes. The easiest way to cook them is in a hot skillet using the following simple directions:

1. Dry the thawed shrimp thoroughly. A dry surface is essential to getting a lovely, browned flavor. Wet shrimp just steams.
2. Add seasonings. A bit of salt and pepper does just fine and allows the flavor of the shrimp to shine. If you want to add more interest, you can choose from a wide variety of flavors. Sprinkle on spicy red pepper flakes, stir in fresh minced garlic, or add a dash of smoky paprika; shrimp is versatile and pairs with any number of herbs and spices.
3. Heat a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Add olive oil.
4. Once the olive oil begins to shimmer, add your dry shrimp in a single layer. Give the shrimp plenty of room; crowded shrimp will not brown properly. Cook in multiple batches if necessary.
5. Shrimp cooks quickly. Cook on the first side for 2-3 minutes, flip, and finish on the second side about 1-2 minutes or until cooked through. Here are a few tips to help you know when it’s ready:
   • The meat will change from pale blue to pale pink.
   • Watch for the thickest part of the shrimp to turn opaque.
   • The shrimp will curl into the shape of a loose C. If your shrimp is an O, it’s over done.

Creating a Meal

Now it’s time to turn that perfectly cooked shrimp into a meal. Your plans can be as simple as a side of garlicky noodles and a crisp green salad, or you can get more creative. Almost every world cuisine features shrimp dishes, so you can find recipes to satisfy any craving. Feeling like Mexican? Shrimp tacos. Asian sound good? Thai noodles with shrimp. Italian anyone? Shrimp scampi or shrimp Alfredo should fit the bill.

What’s your favorite way to serve shrimp for dinner?

About This Author

SeaPak Shrimp & Seafood Company Joined: March 4th, 2021