Shrimp Foil Packets: A Simple and Flavorful Dinner

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Shrimp foil packets offer a quick and delicious meal. They are perfect for busy weeknights or when you want an easy cleanup. This method cooks shrimp and vegetables evenly in a flavorful sauce. You can customize the ingredients to your liking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Shrimp: 1 pound, fresh or frozen (peeled and deveined)
  • Butter or Ghee: 4 tablespoons (or olive oil or avocado oil for dairy-free)
  • Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced (or garlic powder)
  • Lemon: 1, juiced and zested
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste
  • Herbs: Fresh or dried parsley, cilantro, or dill (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Vegetables: Choose your favorites! Zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, broccoli, potatoes, corn, etc.
  • Additional Flavorings (Optional): Paprika, cayenne pepper, Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, red pepper flakes, onions, shallots, pesto, teriyaki sauce, or Alfredo sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

  • Thaw shrimp completely if using frozen.
  • Chop vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
  • Cut heavy-duty aluminum foil into large squares or rectangles.

2. Assemble the Packets

  • Place a sheet of foil on a flat surface.
  • Layer ingredients in the center: shrimp, vegetables, seasonings, and sauce.
  • Bring up the sides of the foil and fold them over to create a sealed packet.
  • Double-wrap the packets for extra protection if grilling.

3. Cooking Methods

Baking:

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place packets on a baking sheet.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until shrimp is pink and opaque.

Grilling:

  • Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
  • Place packets on the grill over indirect heat (away from the hottest part of the grill).
  • Grill for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Air Fryer:

  • Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. (This information is not from the provided sources.)
  • Place packets in a single layer, leaving space for air to circulate. (This information is not from the provided sources.)
  • Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until shrimp are cooked through. (This information is not from the provided sources.)

4. Check for Doneness

  • Shrimp should be pink and no longer translucent.
  • Use a food thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Serving

  • Carefully open the packets using tongs or oven mitts.
  • Let them cool slightly before serving.

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Flavor Combinations and Variations

  • Classic Garlic Butter and Lemon: Use butter, garlic, lemon juice and zest, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  • Asian-Inspired: Try soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn.
  • Cajun-Inspired: Combine Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, andouille sausage, corn on the cob, and bell peppers.

Dietary Considerations

  • Low Sodium: Use low-sodium or no-salt-added seasonings, and rinse canned vegetables.
  • Gluten-Free: Most shrimp foil packets are naturally gluten-free. Check labels on sauces and seasonings if needed.
  • Keto-Friendly: Use low-carb vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, asparagus, or cauliflower rice, and avoid potatoes or corn.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcook the shrimp, or they may become rubbery.
  • Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
  • Arrange ingredients in the packets for visual appeal.
  • If vegetables are mushy, try cutting them thicker or reducing cooking time.
  • Make sure shrimp are fully thawed to avoid toughness.
  • Use heavy-duty foil and ensure packets are sealed tightly to prevent leaks.

Serving Suggestions and Leftovers

  • Serve with rice, salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
  • Use leftover shrimp in tacos, salads, pasta, or sandwiches.

Sustainability and Sourcing

  • Consider the environmental impact of shrimp farming and fishing practices. (This information is not from the provided sources.)
  • Choose sustainably sourced shrimp to support responsible practices. (This information is not from the provided sources.)

Conclusion

Shrimp foil packets are a simple, delicious, and customizable meal. Experiment with different flavors and enjoy! Let us know your favorite combinations in the comments.

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