Cajun Shrimp in Foil

Cajun Shrimp in Foil is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or outdoor gatherings. This dish combines shrimp, sausage, and fresh vegetables with Cajun seasoning, all cooked together in foil packets for easy cleanup. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
• 24 (1 pound) cleaned large shrimp
• 3 ounces fully cooked Turkey/Chicken Andouille sausage (Applegate), very thinly sliced
• 1 medium zucchini (8 ounces each), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin strips
• 1 1/2 cups corn kernels
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat Oven or Grill:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Prep the Vegetables:
   • Slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
   • Seed and cut the red bell pepper into thin strips.
3. Season the Shrimp:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cleaned shrimp, sliced Andouille sausage, zucchini rounds, red bell pepper strips, and corn kernels.
4. Add Seasoning and Herbs:
   • Sprinkle the Cajun or Creole seasoning over the shrimp and vegetables. Add the chopped parsley and basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.

Step 2: Assemble the Foil Packets

1. Prepare Foil Sheets:
   • Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, about 12×18 inches each.
2. Distribute Ingredients:
   • Evenly divide the shrimp and vegetable mixture among the four foil sheets, placing the mixture in the center of each sheet.
3. Add Wine:
   • Pour 1 tablespoon of white wine over each portion.
4. Seal the Packets:
   • Fold the long sides of the foil over the mixture, then fold the ends to seal the packets tightly.

Step 3: Cook the Packets

1. Oven Cooking:
   • Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
2. Grill Cooking:
   • Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the shrimp are opaque and the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Serve

1. Carefully Open Packets:
   • Carefully open the foil packets, allowing the steam to escape. Use caution as the contents will be very hot.
2. Garnish and Serve:
   • Transfer the contents of each packet to a plate or serve directly from the foil. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
• Sausage: Turkey or chicken Andouille sausage adds a smoky flavor without the extra fat. Feel free to use traditional Andouille sausage if preferred.
• Vegetables: Customize the vegetables to your liking. Other great options include cherry tomatoes, sliced onions, or asparagus.

Variations

Spicy Cajun Shrimp

• Add Heat:
  • Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Add Lemon and Garlic:
  • Substitute the Cajun seasoning with minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice for a bright and zesty flavor.

Mediterranean Shrimp

• Mediterranean Flavors:
  • Substitute the Cajun seasoning with dried oregano, thyme, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Add sliced black olives and crumbled feta cheese before sealing the packets.

Serving Suggestions

With Rice or Quinoa

• Rice or Quinoa:
  • Serve the Cajun shrimp and vegetables over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• Salad:
  • Pair with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors of the shrimp.

With Crusty Bread

• Bread:
  • Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the foil packets.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare these foil packets in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the foil packets a few hours ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are cooked? A: The shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables? A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the foil packets.

Q: What other seafood can I use in this recipe? A: You can substitute shrimp with scallops, chunks of fish (such as cod or salmon), or a combination of seafood for variety.

Cajun Shrimp in Foil is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its blend of tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and fresh vegetables, all seasoned with bold Cajun spices, this meal is sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations and serving suggestions!