Baked Italian Shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the tangy zest of Italian dressing and fresh lemon. This recipe is quick to prepare and makes an excellent appetizer or main course. The combination of butter, Italian seasoning, and lemon creates a rich and aromatic dish that is sure to impress. This guide will take you through each step to ensure your Baked Italian Shrimp turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) bag shrimp – thawed, cleaned, dried, and deveined
- 1 package dry Italian dressing packet
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 2 large lemons, sliced into thin rounds
Instructions
Preparing the Shrimp
- Thaw and Clean the Shrimp: If your shrimp are frozen, you can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a colander under cold running water for a quicker method. Once thawed, remove the shells if necessary, clean, dry, and devein the shrimp if they are not pre-cleaned.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and the butter will infuse the flavors nicely.
Assembling the Dish
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Select a large baking dish that can accommodate the shrimp in a single layer. A glass or ceramic dish works well for this recipe.
- Arrange the Shrimp: Lay the cleaned and dried shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish. Ensuring the shrimp are in a single layer helps them cook evenly.
- Add the Italian Dressing: Open the package of dry Italian dressing mix and sprinkle it evenly over the shrimp. The seasoning packet adds a burst of flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Add the Butter: Melt one stick of butter in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop. Pour the melted butter evenly over the shrimp and seasoning. The butter helps to cook the shrimp evenly and adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- Add the Lemons: Slice two large lemons into thin rounds. Arrange the lemon slices on top of the shrimp. As the lemons bake, their juices will infuse the shrimp with a fresh, tangy flavor.
Baking
- Bake the Shrimp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the shrimp. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Serving
- Serve Immediately: Once the shrimp are done baking, remove the dish from the oven. Serve the shrimp immediately, garnished with the baked lemon slices. This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.
- Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch of flavor and color, sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or dill over the shrimp before serving. This adds a nice fresh element to the dish.
Tips and Variations
- Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, add vegetables such as asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the baking dish with the shrimp. These vegetables will roast alongside the shrimp and absorb the delicious flavors of the butter and Italian seasoning.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the melted butter for a spicy kick. This will add a bit of heat that complements the lemon and Italian seasoning.
- Herb Variations: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill over the shrimp before serving for added freshness and flavor. Fresh herbs add a beautiful color contrast and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Cheese Addition: Sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp before baking for a cheesy twist. The cheese will melt and create a golden crust on top of the shrimp.
Nutritional Information
This Baked Italian Shrimp dish is high in protein from the shrimp and provides healthy fats from the butter. The Italian seasoning and lemon add flavor without adding many calories, making this a relatively healthy and balanced dish.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Proper storage ensures the shrimp remain fresh and safe to eat.
- Reheating: Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough if reheated for too long. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Baked Italian Shrimp is a quick and delicious dish that brings together the succulent flavors of shrimp with the zesty taste of Italian dressing and lemon. Perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Share this dish with friends and family to spread the joy of this flavorful and easy-to-make meal. Enjoy your Baked Italian Shrimp, and see you in the next recipe!
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet dish with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender texture of these Baked Italian Shrimp, a treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!