How to Cook Shrimp in the Oven: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Shrimp is a popular seafood that is tasty and versatile. It can be cooked in many ways, including grilling, boiling, frying, and baking. However, baking shrimp in the oven is one of the best ways to achieve crispy, juicy, and flavorful results. In this article, we will show you how to cook shrimp in the oven using simple ingredients and few steps. Follow our recipe, and you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal in no time.

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s prepare our ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:

  • 1 pound of large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Note: You can adjust the amounts of seasonings according to your taste and preference.

Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients, let’s start cooking!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (205 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them with the seasoning mixture. Make sure the shrimp are well coated on both sides.

Step 3: Arrange the Shrimp on the Baking Sheet

Arrange the seasoned shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure each shrimp has enough space to cook evenly.

Add lemon slices on top of the shrimp to add a citrusy flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Shrimp

Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until they are pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking the shrimp as it will make them tough and rubbery.

Once done, remove the shrimp from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.

Step 5: Serve the Shrimp

Transfer the baked shrimp to a serving plate or platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Serve the shrimp with additional lemon wedges and your favorite dip, such as garlic aioli or cocktail sauce.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy oven-baked shrimp!

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance the flavor and texture of your baked shrimp:

  • Use fresh and high-quality shrimp for the best taste and texture. Avoid frozen or processed shrimp if possible.
  • Marinate the shrimp for at least 10 minutes before baking to allow the flavors to penetrate the shrimp.
  • Add more or less seasoning to adjust the spiciness and intensity of the flavor.
  • Add other vegetables or fruits such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or pineapples to the baking sheet to make a complete meal.
  • Serve the shrimp with a side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a balanced and nutritious meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp but make sure to thaw them first before seasoning and baking. You can thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge or under cold running water.

Q: Can I use other seasonings or herbs for the shrimp?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different seasonings such as cumin, chili powder, or Italian herbs. You can also use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.

Q: How long can I store the leftover shrimp?

A: You can store the leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the shrimp in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I use smaller or medium-sized shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use smaller or medium-sized shrimp, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller shrimp may cook faster than larger ones, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness.

Conclusion

Baking shrimp in the oven is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this tasty seafood. With our simple recipe and tips, you can make perfectly baked shrimp that are juicy, crispy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or having a cozy dinner at home, this baked shrimp recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds. Try it today and impress your guests or family with your cooking skills!