Quick and Easy Oven-Baked Shrimp Recipe: A Healthy Dinner in Just 15 Minutes
Introduction
If you’re looking for a fast, healthy dinner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, oven-baked shrimp is the perfect solution! Whether you opt for fresh or frozen shrimp, this recipe can be whipped up in minutes and popped in the oven for just 15 minutes. The result? Juicy, succulent shrimp that are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish, along with variations to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Basic Oven-Baked Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy twist)
- Cooked pasta or rice (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps to cook the shrimp quickly while giving them a nice, slightly crispy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. If you’re adding red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning, include them in this step as well. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated.
Step 3: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet. Ensure that they are not overlapping for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Shrimp
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the shrimp from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice for added flavor.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Variations
1. Spicy Garlic Shrimp
- For those who love spice, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade. You can also marinate the shrimp with cilantro and jalapeños for a fresh twist.
2. Lemon Butter Shrimp
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter and mix it into the marinade instead of using olive oil. This adds a rich, buttery flavor to the shrimp.
3. Shrimp Scampi Style
- Infuse your marinade with white wine (about 1/4 cup) to create a scampi-style dish. Serve the shrimp over cooked pasta for a complete meal.
4. Coconut Shrimp
- For a tropical flair, toss the shrimp with shredded coconut for the last 5 minutes of baking. This gives the shrimp a delicious sweet crunch.
5. Mediterranean Shrimp
- Add diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to the shrimp before baking. This combination brings a Mediterranean flair to your dish.
Tips for Success
- Shrimp Selection: When purchasing shrimp, look for firm, translucent shells, and avoid any that have a strong fishy smell. Fresh shrimp should smell briny or like the ocean.
- Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on shrimp while they bake. Depending on their size, they may cook faster or slower. For medium shrimp, 10-12 minutes is often sufficient.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your baked shrimp with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or cooked quinoa to create a well-balanced meal.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in a pan or eaten cold in salads.
Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein, low in calories but high in essential nutrients. Here are some of the benefits:
- High in Protein: A 3-ounce serving provides about 20 grams of protein, making it ideal for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Rich in Nutrients: Shrimp is high in selenium, vitamin B12, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health and metabolic functions.
- Low in Calories: At around 85 calories per 3-ounce serving, shrimp is a healthy, filling option for those looking to manage their weight.
Conclusion
Oven-baked shrimp is a quick, healthy, and versatile dinner option that anyone can master in just 15 minutes. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you keep it simple or experiment with the various flavor-packed variations, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
So grab some shrimp and start cooking your way to a delicious and nutritious dinner tonight!
Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your delicious baked shrimp on social media!
