Spring Break Shrimp
A vibrant shrimp and green onion dish in a flavorful mustard and Cajun seasoning sauce, perfect for quick, lively dinners over angel hair pasta with a hint of wine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook shrimp in margarine; remove shrimp and set aside, saving the shrimp broth.
- Add 1/4 cup of the broth to the pan and reduce for 5 minutes.
- Add white wine and cook for several more minutes.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning, Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce.
- Gradually thicken the mixture until it reaches a thin paste-like texture.
- Add chopped green onions and cooked shrimp to the sauce.
- Stir until shrimp are coated with the sauce.
- Serve over cooked angel hair pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you're out of Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper can work as a substitute. You can also swap out the shrimp for chicken or a mix of both if you prefer. Ensure the shrimp are cooked just until pink to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully. It also pairs well with the Creamy Chicken Primavera for a delightful dinner option. For a heartier meal, consider adding roasted vegetables on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or white wine to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spring Break Shrimp contains roughly 253 calories, with 15g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
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. Just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking. To do this, leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This will help you achieve the best texture in your dish.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice mixed with water. This will provide acidity and moisture without altering the dish's flavor profile significantly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately. Reheat the sauce and add the shrimp just before serving to keep them tender. Cook the pasta fresh to ensure it maintains the proper texture.
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).