Old Bay Shrimp

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of firing up the grill on a warm summer evening. As the sun dips below the horizon, the air fills with the tantalizing aroma of grilled seafood. My go-to recipe for those moments is Old Bay Shrimp. This dish not only embodies the spirit of summer but also brings a delightful flavor that’s hard to resist. I remember the first time I made it for friends—we gathered on the patio, laughter filling the air as the shrimp sizzled away, infused with the iconic Old Bay seasoning. It was an instant hit, and since then, it’s become a staple in my summertime repertoire.

The combination of fresh shrimp, a touch of olive oil, and the unique blend of spices from Old Bay creates a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. You can serve it as an appetizer at gatherings or as a main dish for a casual weeknight dinner. Either way, it’s guaranteed to impress. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels like a celebration, making every bite a reminder of sunny days and good company. Every time I prepare Old Bay Shrimp, I’m reminded of those joy-filled evenings, and I can’t help but smile.

Everything You Need for Old Bay Shrimp

When it comes to making Old Bay Shrimp, the secret lies in the quality of the ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating that beautiful balance of flavors. The key players are the fresh shrimp, which should ideally be wild-caught, and of course, the iconic Old Bay seasoning that gives this dish its signature flavor. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

• 1 pound shrimp, either shell-on or peeled with tail on: Fresh shrimp are essential for a tasty dish. If you choose shell-on, it adds a bit of extra flavor while cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This serves as a perfect base for the seasoning to stick and helps achieve a nice char on the grill.
• 3 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning: This classic blend of spices brings a unique flavor that’s synonymous with seafood dishes.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a fresh flavor to the dish, enhancing its presentation.
• 1 lemon, for serving: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Step by Step Instructions for Old Bay Shrimp

Grilling Old Bay Shrimp is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s walk through the steps together to ensure you achieve that perfect grill every time. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this delicious dish can come together!

1. Start by rinsing and patting dry the shrimp with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect grill mark and avoiding excess moisture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil and Old Bay seasoning. Ensure each piece is well coated. The oil allows the seasoning to adhere better and enhances the flavor.
3. Once well coated, thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
4. Preheat your grill pan over high heat. You want it to be nice and hot to achieve those beautiful grill marks and a quick cook.
5. Carefully lay each skewer on the grill pan. Grill the shrimp for about 3 to 5 minutes per side. Watch closely for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque—this is your sign that they’re done.
6. Once grilled, remove the skewers from the heat. Place the grilled shrimp on a serving platter.
7. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. The green of the parsley adds a lovely contrast against the shrimp.
8. Serve immediately with wedges of lemon. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating elevates the flavors and adds a zesty brightness.
9. Enjoy your Old Bay Shrimp hot off the grill, and watch as everyone gathers to savor this delightful dish.

Recipe Tips about Old Bay Shrimp

Here are some tips to ensure your Old Bay Shrimp turns out perfectly every time. These insights can make a significant difference in your cooking experience and the final flavor of your dish.

• Storage: Store any leftover Old Bay Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to two months. Just make sure they’re in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Pairing: Consider serving Old Bay Shrimp with a refreshing side salad or grilled vegetables. They complement the flavors beautifully.
• Variations: Try adding a bit of garlic or chili flakes to the seasoning for a different flavor profile. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises!
• Presentation: Serve the dish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of extra parsley for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Side Dish Ideas for Old Bay Shrimp

When serving Old Bay Shrimp, consider pairing it with delicious sides that enhance the meal. Here are some fantastic options:

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of the corn pairs well with the spices in the shrimp. Serve it with butter and a sprinkle of salt.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the grilled shrimp. It’s a great way to add some crunch.
• Potato Salad: A classic summer side, a creamy potato salad complements the spices beautifully and offers a comforting touch to the meal.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice pilaf. The rice absorbs the flavors and makes for a hearty meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a bright note to your plate.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit and perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the shrimp.
• Fruit Salad: For a light and refreshing touch, a fruit salad with seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate after the rich flavors of the shrimp.

FAQ

Conclusion

Old Bay Shrimp is a dish that truly captures the essence of summer with its fresh flavors and simple preparation. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. I encourage you to try making it for your next meal; the flavor is unbeatable and will surely become a favorite!

Old Bay Shrimp

The ultimate comfort food, Old Bay Shrimp is a quick and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor! With the rich taste of spices and fresh shrimp, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a weeknight dinner. You’ll want to make this dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 3 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound shrimp either shell-on or peeled with tail on
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
• 1 lemon lemon for serving

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Start by rinsing and patting dry the shrimp with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect grill mark and avoiding excess moisture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil and Old Bay seasoning. Ensure each piece is well coated. The oil allows the seasoning to adhere better and enhances the flavor.
3. Once well coated, thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
4. Preheat your grill pan over high heat. You want it to be nice and hot to achieve those beautiful grill marks and a quick cook.
5. Carefully lay each skewer on the grill pan. Grill the shrimp for about 3 to 5 minutes per side. Watch closely for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque—this is your sign that they’re done.
6. Once grilled, remove the skewers from the heat. Place the grilled shrimp on a serving platter.
7. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. The green of the parsley adds a lovely contrast against the shrimp.
8. Serve immediately with wedges of lemon. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating elevates the flavors and adds a zesty brightness.
9. Enjoy your Old Bay Shrimp hot off the grill, and watch as everyone gathers to savor this delightful dish.

Notes

Extra tips or suggestions here.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.