If you're craving a delightful seafood dish that’s both quick and easy to prepare, look no further than this mouthwatering steamed shrimp recipe! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful and succulent dish that will impress your family and friends. With the zesty kick of lemon and the iconic taste of Old Bay seasoning, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for your weeknight dinners or special occasions. Get ready to dive into a plate of perfectly cooked shrimp that’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, 1 lemon sliced into rounds, 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning, and salt to taste.
- In a large pot or a steamer, pour in 2 cups of water. Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil.
- While the water is heating, prepare the shrimp. Ensure that the shrimp are fully peeled and deveined. If they are frozen, make sure they are completely thawed and rinsed under cold water.
- Once the water is boiling, add the Old Bay seasoning to the water. This will infuse the shrimp with flavor as they steam.
- Next, place a steamer basket over the pot, making sure it fits snugly. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the steamer basket. This ensures even cooking.
- Lay the lemon slices over the shrimp. The lemon will add a fresh, zesty flavor as the shrimp steam.
- Cover the pot with a lid, and allow the shrimp to steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, carefully remove the steamer basket from the pot. Use tongs to transfer the shrimp and lemon slices to a serving platter.
- Season the shrimp with salt to taste. You can also add additional Old Bay seasoning if desired.
- Serve the steamed shrimp immediately, garnished with the lemon slices. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh shrimp if available. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and rinsed to remove any excess ice.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while they steam. They only need about 5-7 minutes to cook until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
- Experiment with Seasoning: While Old Bay seasoning is classic, feel free to experiment with other spices or herbs to suit your taste. Garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne can add a unique twist.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Enhance your shrimp experience by serving them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as cocktail sauce, garlic butter, or a spicy aioli.
- Pair with Sides: Complement your steamed shrimp with sides like a fresh salad, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
- Garnish Creatively: Not only does lemon add flavor, but it also makes for an attractive presentation. Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 23g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 170mg
