Cajun Shrimp in Foil

Cajun Shrimp in Foil is a convenient and flavorful dish that combines the bold Cajun spices with succulent shrimp and vibrant vegetables. The foil packets lock in all the juices and aromas, creating a delicious and easy-to-make meal.

Cajun Shrimp in Foil

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

How to Make:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat.
2. Place 4 large (10 x 18-inch) pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil on a flat surface.
3. 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 parsley, and 1 tablespoon of basil.
4. Drizzle each with 1 tablespoon of wine and about 1/2 tablespoon of oil. Fold each piece of foil to form a packet, sealing tightly and leaving a little room inside for air circulation. The packets can be refrigerated or frozen at this stage.
5. 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 sauce to individual bowls or rimmed plates.

To Freeze and Heat:

1. Place uncooked packets into sealable plastic bags, keeping them level and upright (two packets fit well into a gallon-sized bag).
2. Freeze for up to two (2) months. There’s no need to thaw before cooking.
3. Remove the frozen packets from the bags and place them on a baking tray in a cold oven set to 425°F.
4. Once the oven comes to temperature, continue to cook for 35-40 minutes.

Tips:

1. Vegetable Variation: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or mushrooms based on your preference.
2. Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference. Add a bit more for extra heat or reduce for a milder flavor.
3. Serve with Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the Cajun shrimp and vegetables over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa.
4. Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a citrusy kick.
5. Frozen Convenience: Having prepped, frozen packets in the freezer allows for a quick and effortless dinner option.