Description
This simple and flavorful Steamed Shrimp recipe features large shrimp seasoned with Old Bay and optional Cajun spices, steamed to tender perfection. It’s a quick and healthy seafood dish perfect for casual gatherings or an easy weeknight meal, served with fresh lemon wedges and tangy cocktail sauce.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (16-20 count), shell on
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional)
To Serve
- Lemon wedges
- Cocktail sauce
Instructions
- Clean the shrimp: Use kitchen shears or scissors to carefully cut along the back of each shrimp, exposing the vein. Rinse the shrimp under cold water to remove any dirt or vein remnants, but keep the shells intact for steaming.
- Season the shrimp: Place the cleaned shrimp in the steamer basket and sprinkle evenly with about 2 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning per pound. Optionally, add Cajun seasoning for extra spice. Toss gently to coat, knowing some seasoning will fall off during cooking.
- Steam the shrimp: Fill a pot with water making sure the water level is below the steamer basket so it doesn’t touch the shrimp. Bring the water to a simmer, then place the steamer basket with shrimp over the pot. Cover and steam for about 6 minutes until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and are cooked through yet tender.
- Serve: Remove shrimp from the steamer and serve warm or chilled over ice. Accompany with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite cocktail sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Keep the shells on during steaming to lock in moisture and enhance flavor.
- Adjust seasoning amounts based on your taste preference, but 2 teaspoons of Old Bay per pound is recommended.
- Make sure the water in the pot does not touch the shrimp to prevent boiling rather than steaming.
- Serve immediately for best texture, or chill for a refreshing cold shrimp dish.
- Use fresh lemon wedges and quality cocktail sauce to complement the seasoned shrimp.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: American
