Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp Delight
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp Delight. Originating from my neighbor Katie, this dish is a zesty twist on the classic shrimp cocktail. Combining the bold flavors of Cajun spices with a hint of sweetness and brightness from lemon and honey, this recipe is perfect for gatherings or a weeknight dinner. The ingredient list may seem long, but you’ll find that it’s packed with everyday spices and herbs that bring this dish to life. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare in advance, making it ideal for busy hosts. Whether using fresh or frozen shrimp, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
Shrimp
2 (lbs, peeled and deveined, thawed if using frozen.)
Olive oil
1/2 (cup)
Lemon juice
2 (tablespoons)
Parsley
2 (tablespoons, chopped)
Honey
1 (tablespoon)
Soy sauce
1 (tablespoon)
Paprika
1 (tablespoon)
Salt
2.5 (teaspoons)
Onion powder
1 (teaspoon)
Garlic powder
1 (teaspoon)
Cayenne pepper
1 (teaspoon)
White pepper
3/4 (teaspoon)
Black pepper
3/4 (teaspoon)
Thyme
1/2 (teaspoon)
Oregano
1/2 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, honey, soy sauce, paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, white pepper, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Whisk until well blended.
2
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
3
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
4
Once marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5
Grill the shrimp for approximately 3 minutes on each side or until they are opaque and cooked through, being careful not to overcook.
6
Remove from the grill and serve warm. For make-ahead options, refrigerate and serve chilled for a refreshing appetizer.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp Delight?
It is a flavorful seafood appetizer that puts a zesty Cajun twist on the classic shrimp cocktail, featuring a blend of bold spices, lemon, and honey.
Who is the original source of this recipe?
This recipe originated from a neighbor named Katie.
Is this shrimp recipe spicy?
Yes, the dish is spicy as it includes cayenne pepper, white pepper, black pepper, and Cajun-inspired seasonings.
How much shrimp is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of shrimp.
Should the shrimp be peeled before cooking?
Yes, the shrimp should be peeled and deveined before being added to the marinade.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but they must be thawed before preparation.
What is the base of the marinade?
The marinade base consists of 1/2 cup of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
How long should the shrimp marinate?
The shrimp should marinate for at least 30 minutes, but can be left for up to 24 hours for a deeper flavor profile.
What temperature should I set the grill to?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat.
How long do the shrimp take to cook on the grill?
The shrimp take approximately 3 minutes per side to cook.
How can I tell when the grilled shrimp are finished cooking?
The shrimp are done when they become opaque and are cooked through.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, it is ideal for busy hosts as it can be prepared in advance and served chilled.
Is honey used in this recipe?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of honey is included to provide a hint of sweetness.
What herbs are used in the Cajun seasoning?
The recipe uses chopped parsley, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
Does this recipe contain soy sauce?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce is used in the marinade.
What kind of peppers are included in the spice mix?
The spice mix includes cayenne pepper, white pepper, and black pepper.
How much salt is in the Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp?
The recipe calls for 2.5 teaspoons of salt.
Is garlic included in the ingredients?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Should I use skewers to grill the shrimp?
Yes, threading the shrimp onto skewers is recommended for even cooking on the grill.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, for a refreshing appetizer, the grilled shrimp can be refrigerated and served chilled.
Is this recipe suitable for a weeknight dinner?
Absolutely, while great as an appetizer, it is also perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
What type of paprika should I use?
The recipe specifies 1 tablespoon of paprika.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 15 ingredients in total.
What is the serving suggestion for a party?
It is suggested as a party food or appetizer, served either warm from the grill or chilled.
How much onion powder is required?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
Can I use fresh parsley?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is described as an easy recipe despite having a long list of everyday spices.
Does the recipe use white pepper?
Yes, it uses 3/4 teaspoon of white pepper.
How much olive oil is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of olive oil for the marinade.
Can I grill the shrimp for longer than 6 minutes total?
It is recommended to be careful not to overcook them; 3 minutes per side is usually sufficient for them to become opaque.