Discover How To Cook Frozen Shrimp and enjoy delicious meals in minutes!
I unexpectedly stumbled upon this fantastic culinary shortcut when the fresh fish section of my grocery store was out of peeled and deveined shrimp. Not wanting to deal with the preparation aspect of shrimp in their shells and short of time, I asked the gentleman behind the counter for suggestions. He explained this method of cooking frozen shrimp that seemed so easy I knew I had to try it.
After thanking him for his advice, I turned my cart and headed straight to the freezer aisle, where I picked up a bag of frozen shrimp. With my new find in hand, I drove home and went to work preparing a quick and easy dinner.
I began by separating the few frozen shrimp that had clumped together. Luckily, I had chosen a bag containing mostly loose shrimp. If your shrimp are frozen in blocks or clumps, you can bang them on the counter in a plastic bag. I ensured that they were not crowded in the pan for a proper cook. They needed only 2-3 minutes per side, so I remained at the stove to watch them closely.
Frozen shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. I have to say that I am now a believer. These shrimp were the juiciest, most tender, and delicious shrimp I have ever had. I may never buy fresh shrimp again.
Is Cooking Frozen Shrimp Healthy?
Shrimp is a healthy, low-calorie protein that provides vitamin B12, selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and potassium. This recipe’s cooking method incorporates heart-healthy olive oil for additional benefits.
Are Frozen Shrimp Better Than Fresh Shrimp?
It’s natural to assume that anything is better when fresh and not frozen, but that is not always the case. Fish, shellfish, fruit, and vegetables are often flash-frozen directly from harvesting or catching with minimal processing. Fresh produce and seafood could be days or weeks old when they reach the consumer.
Depending on the preparation method, cooking frozen shrimp may be a better option than letting them thaw first. Grilling frozen shrimp is not recommended, as the outside can cook and dry out long before the inside is done. However, sautéing frozen shrimp, as in this recipe, helps prevent them from overcooking, resulting in more tender, juicier shrimp.
How to make ahead and store
Hot shrimp dishes are best consumed right after cooking. However, foods like shrimp cocktails use cooked, chilled shrimp, and once cooked, they can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Store them in an airtight container. I recommend eating leftover cooked shrimp cold, as reheating them could make them rubbery.
Serving Suggestions
Cooking frozen shrimp is so quick and easy you will likely want to make side dishes that are also done in minutes. Some options to consider include Air Fryer Fried Rice, Microwave Quinoa, Air Fryer Baby Potatoes, and Broccoli Pasta Salad. Some quick-cooking veggie sides include Air Fryer Asparagus and Microwave Green Beans. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen shrimp deveined and peeled
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh herbs for garnish such as chopped parsley or thyme
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the frozen shrimp and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika and oregano.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and thoroughly cooked. Sprinkle on red pepper flakes.
- Serve hot with fresh herbs and lemon wedges; squeeze lemon juice over shrimp when serving.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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