Quick and Easy Cajun Shrimp

4 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 25 m Total: 40 m Beginner
Perfect when you don’t have much time and need a quick, healthy meal with shrimp, tomatoes, onion, and bell pepper. This recipe is especially fitting for the diabetic in your family or person who can’t handle lots of spice - you control the heat level.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 1 package instant brown rice or 2 cups regular cooked rice
  • 1 large onion
  • 1 large green pepper
  • 1 tsp oil
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 lb cleaned shrimp
  • Handful of scallops (optional)
  • Seasonings to taste (garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne) and Tabasco (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook rice according to package directions (about 20 minutes for instant brown rice).
  2. While rice is cooking, slice one large onion and one large green pepper.
  3. Sauté the onion and pepper in one tsp of oil over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add one pound of cleaned shrimp seasoned with your favorite seasonings (garlic powder, salt and black pepper work well; add some cayenne if you want it spicy) and heat through until shrimp turns pink, about 3-5 minutes. You can add precooked shrimp if you like to save time - just heat through for 2 minutes. If using scallops, add the seasoned scallops with the shrimp and cook until opaque.
  6. Add seasonings and Tabasco to taste. I add to my taste and let the guests add their own as some prefer it spicier than others.
  7. Serve over rice or noodles with a salad with tangy dressing.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my shrimp rubbery?

A: Don't overcook the shrimp - they only need 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and curl up. Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Remove from heat as soon as they're done.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes! Thaw them first by running under cold water for a few minutes, then pat dry. Don't cook from frozen or they'll release too much water.

Tips and Techniques

If using precooked shrimp, add them at the very end just to heat through - they only need about 2 minutes. The key to this recipe is not overcooking the shrimp. You can prep all the vegetables while the rice cooks to make this truly a one-pot timing dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • fresh shrimp: precooked frozen shrimp
  • instant brown rice: regular white or brown rice, or serve over pasta
  • diced tomatoes: 2-3 fresh tomatoes, diced, or tomato sauce
  • scallops: more shrimp, or diced chicken breast

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium pot for rice
  • Cutting board and knife

Historical Context

While traditional Cajun shrimp dishes like étouffée take time to build flavors with a roux, this quick version captures the essence of Louisiana cooking - seafood, the trinity vegetables, and seasonings you control - for busy weeknights.