Old Bay Steamed Shrimp: 15-Minute Coastal Delight

Oh, let me tell you about my love for seafood! There’s something magical about the way fresh shrimp can transform a meal into a coastal feast. One of my absolute favorite ways to enjoy shrimp is with this *old bay steamed shrimp* recipe. It’s so simple and bursting with flavor, you’ll think you’re sitting by the ocean with a gentle breeze.

I remember the first time I made this dish – the aroma of Old Bay seasoning and lemon simmering together just swept me off my feet! In just 15 minutes, you can have a dish that’s not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients List

• 2 pounds shrimp – Make sure they’re deveined and preferably peeled for easy eating.
• 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning – This iconic blend is what gives the shrimp that signature flavor. Don’t be shy with it!
• 1 lemon – Slice it up; the fresh citrus will brighten the dish beautifully.
• 1 onion – Quartered, it adds a lovely sweetness as it steams.
• 4 cups water – This will create the steam that cooks the shrimp to perfection.

How to Prepare *Old Bay Steamed Shrimp*

1. First, grab a large pot and fill it with 4 cups of water. This is where all the magic begins!
2. Next, toss in the Old Bay seasoning, lemon slices, and quartered onion. Give it a good stir to combine all those beautiful flavors.
3. Now, bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when you see those gentle bubbles rising up!
4. Once boiling, carefully add in the deveined shrimp. Make sure they’re spread out evenly in the pot, so they cook perfectly.
5. Cover the pot tightly and let the shrimp steam for about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them – they’re done when they turn pink and opaque!
6. When they’re ready, remove the pot from heat and carefully drain the shrimp using a colander. Be cautious, it can get steamy!
7. Finally, serve them up with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for that final touch. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 15 minutes!
• Deliciously seasoned with Old Bay for that iconic flavor.
• Light and low-calorie, perfect for a guilt-free meal.
• Fresh and vibrant taste that transports you to the coast.
• Perfect for gatherings, impressing guests with minimal effort.

Tips for Success

To make sure your *old bay steamed shrimp* turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, don’t rush the boiling stage; let it get to a nice, rolling boil before adding the shrimp. This helps them cook evenly. Also, keep an eye on the shrimp while they steam – they only need 3 to 5 minutes. Overcooking can make them tough, and nobody wants that! If you like a bit more kick, feel free to adjust the Old Bay seasoning to your taste. And remember, fresh shrimp always make a difference, so if you can, go for the freshest catch you can find. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to *old bay steamed shrimp*, you’re in for a treat that’s not just delicious but also nutritious! Each serving (about 1 cup) is estimated to have around 200 calories, with 3 grams of fat and a fantastic 25 grams of protein. Plus, it’s low in carbs, coming in at just 1 gram! This makes it a great choice if you’re looking for a satisfying yet light meal. Enjoy knowing you’re treating your taste buds and your body right!

FAQ Section

I often get questions about shrimp cooking, so here are some of the most common ones I hear!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure they’re thawed and deveined before cooking. It saves time and still tastes great.

How do I know when the shrimp are done? Look for that beautiful pink color and the shrimp should be opaque. If they’re still translucent, give them another minute or so.

What can I serve with old bay steamed shrimp? Great question! They pair perfectly with cocktail sauce, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best fresh, you can steam the shrimp and store them in the fridge for a day. Just reheat gently before serving!

Is Old Bay seasoning spicy? Not really! It has a lovely mix of spices that adds flavor without too much heat, making it perfect for everyone.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your *old bay steamed shrimp*, the options are endless! I love to pair them with a zesty cocktail sauce for dipping—it adds a lovely kick! A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the shrimp perfectly. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, try serving them alongside some warm, crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. And don’t forget extra lemon wedges; they really elevate each bite! Enjoy experimenting with your favorites!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers of your *old bay steamed shrimp* (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up! To reheat, simply steam them again for a couple of minutes until warmed through. This method keeps them tender and juicy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery. Enjoy those tasty leftovers just as much as the first time around!

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