Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that's quick to make and bursting with deliciousness? Then look no further! This Seafood Cajun recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic blend of spicy Cajun seasonings and succulent seafood, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe delivers big on taste without sacrificing time or effort, making it a staple in my "quick dinner ideas" repertoire. Get ready to experience a taste of Louisiana comfort, right in your kitchen! This homemade cooking adventure is easier than you think!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod, or your favorite combination)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
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Prep the Seafood: Rinse the seafood and pat it dry with paper towels. If using larger pieces of fish, cut them into bite-sized portions. This ensures even cooking.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for your delicious dish.
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Spice It Up: Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma. This simple step elevates the overall taste profile significantly.
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Cook the Seafood: Add the seafood to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until it's cooked through and opaque. Don't overcook the seafood, or it will become tough. Shrimp cooks very quickly, so keep a close eye on it!
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Simmer and Finish: Stir in the chicken broth or water and the chopped parsley. Simmer for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Serve the Seafood Cajun immediately over cooked rice. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired. Enjoy this healthy meal packed with protein and flavor!
Cooking Tips for the Best Seafood Cajun:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh, high-quality seafood will make a huge difference in the taste of your dish.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a large amount of seafood, cook it in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper is adjustable to your preference. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked seafood is dry and tough. Cook it just until it's opaque and cooked through.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes.
- Different Seafood: Experiment with different types of seafood, such as mussels, clams, or crab.
- Creamy Cajun: For a richer dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.) This recipe is a great addition to your collection of best recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this easy, delicious, and satisfying seafood Cajun dish! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!