Description
This recipe for Oven Baked Shrimps offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare succulent shrimp with a blend of garlic, lemon, and spices, all baked to perfection for a tender and juicy result. Perfect as a main or appetizer, it combines simple ingredients and an easy baking method for a delicious seafood dish in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound (450 g) large raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp, fresh or properly thawed frozen
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil, preferably extra virgin
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced finely
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon (1.25 ml) chili powder
- ½ teaspoon (1.25 ml) smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste, freshly ground recommended
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to heat completely. Ensuring the oven is fully preheated helps the shrimp cook evenly and achieve the desired tender texture.
- Prepare Shrimp Mixture: In a large baking dish, combine the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well so that every shrimp is coated thoroughly with the oil and seasonings.
- Season Shrimp: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the shrimp mixture and toss again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed, enhancing the natural flavor without any bland spots.
- Arrange Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer within the baking dish. Placing them without overlapping prevents steaming and promotes proper cooking and texture.
- Bake Shrimp: Place the baking dish on the middle rack of the oven and bake for about 8–10 minutes. Watch for visual signs of doneness: shrimp should turn pink and become opaque. Avoid overcooking to prevent a rubbery texture, checking near the 8-minute mark is advisable.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil, adding fresh flavor and improving appearance.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are in a single layer to cook evenly and prevent steaming.
- Do not overcook shrimp to avoid a tough, rubbery texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
- Fresh parsley or basil adds a bright, fresh finish and can be substituted based on preference.
- Frozen shrimp must be properly thawed prior to use for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
