An Easy and Delicious Meal: Cajun Shrimp in Foil
After whipping up a delightful Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet, I was inspired to create a foil packet version! Our family absolutely adored the skillet, and I might have enjoyed it even more because it was incredibly simple to make. Foil packets are all the rage right now, and I knew this one would be a hit.
Foil packets make for a wonderful all-in-one meal with minimal cleanup. They are versatile enough to be grilled, baked, or cooked over a campfire. The fantastic thing about the shrimp and sausage combo is that they cook quickly, making them ready to enjoy in no time. When combined with crisp and tender summer vegetables like zucchini, banana squash, asparagus, and bell peppers, the flavors come together beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also practical. The foil packets ensure easy cleanup and can be cooked in various ways. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Plus, the combination of Cajun spices, shrimp, sausage, and fresh veggies creates a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium bowl
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Baking sheet
- Oven
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 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat.
- Place 4 large (10 x 18-inch) pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil on a flat surface.
- Divide the sausage, zucchini, bell peppers, and corn among the foil pieces, placing the vegetables in the center of each. Top each with shrimp (about 6), sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon of the parsley and 1 tablespoon of the basil.
- Drizzle each with 1 tablespoon of the wine and about 1/2 tablespoon of the oil. Fold each piece of the foil to form a packet, sealing tightly and leaving a little room inside for air to circulate. The packets may be refrigerated (or frozen) at this stage.
- To cook, preheat the oven to 425°F. Arrange the packets on a baking sheet and cook until the shrimp is cooked through and the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 13 minutes. Open the packets slowly, being careful of the hot steam. Transfer the shrimp, vegetables, and any sauce that has accumulated to individual bowls or rimmed plates.
Tips for Success
Make sure to seal the foil packets tightly to trap steam and cook the ingredients evenly. If you’re using frozen packets, there’s no need to thaw them before cooking; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding different vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms for variety.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more Cajun seasoning.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Yield: 4 Servings, Serving Size: 1 packet
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 188.5mg
- Sodium: 1318mg
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 29g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of sausage? Yes, feel free to use your favorite fully cooked sausage.
Is it possible to make this dish spicier? Absolutely! Add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
Conclusion
This Cajun Shrimp in Foil is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and let the delightful mix of spices and fresh ingredients tantalize your taste buds. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so be sure to share your experiences!