Messy Shrimp

Prep: 30 min Cook: 5 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A flavorful shrimp dish featuring a bold blend of garlic, oregano, red pepper, and lemon, perfect for those who enjoy spicy, zesty seafood with a savory twist.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups reduced fat liquid butter mix
  • 1 teaspoon crushed oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon lite salt
  • 2 pounds medium-large shrimp in the shell
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a Dutch oven or large pot.
  2. Toss well to coat the shrimp evenly.
  3. Set aside for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Stir, cover, and cook for 5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the mix. If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the crushed red pepper to 1 teaspoon. Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp can work in a pinch; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. This dish can be served as a main course or incorporated into other seafood recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the messy shrimp with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth, or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. A fresh green salad or coleslaw can provide a nice contrast, while pairing with Mary Peck'S Crab Dip makes for a delightful seafood spread. For drinks, consider a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent toughening. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short bursts, checking frequently until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once for the best texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Messy Shrimp contains roughly 964 calories, with 26g protein, 234g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (351% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 98g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

964 kcal 48% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 26g 52% DV
Total Fat 23.7g 30% DV
Carbs 233.7g 85% DV
Fiber 98.3g 100% DV
Sugar 3.8g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 96.3mg 4% DV
Potassium 2359.9mg 50% DV
Cholesterol 5mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 779.7mcg 87% DV
Vitamin C 107.9mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 2000mg 100% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Shellfish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure they are fully thawed before cooking. This will help ensure even cooking and the best texture. Just follow the same preparation steps as you would with fresh shrimp.

What can I do with the leftover broth?

The leftover broth is flavorful and can be used as a base for soups or sauces. Strain it to remove solids, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. It pairs wonderfully with other seafood recipes.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To adjust the spice level, simply reduce the amount of crushed red pepper to your desired heat level. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt when serving to cool down the dish, making it more palatable for those sensitive to spice.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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