New Year’s Eve is all about celebrating with friends, laughter, and of course, delicious bites that set the stage for a fantastic night! I absolutely love preparing appetizers that not only taste amazing but also make everyone feel special. These baked shrimp are a crowd-pleaser, and they come together in a flash. Trust me, the combination of succulent shrimp with zesty lemon and spices will have everyone reaching for more. It’s the perfect addition to your New Year’s Eve food spread, making your gathering unforgettable. Let’s dive into this simple yet oh-so-satisfying recipe!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because a hot oven guarantees perfectly cooked shrimp!
- While that’s warming up, grab a large mixing bowl. Toss in your peeled and deveined shrimp along with the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. I like to give everything a good mix, making sure every shrimp is coated in that flavorful goodness.
- Next, take a baking sheet and spread the shrimp out in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them; they need a little space to get that nice golden color. Place the lemon slices around the shrimp for that extra zing!
- Now, pop the baking sheet in the oven and set your timer for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp turn a lovely pink and curl up slightly. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!
- Once they’re done, pull them out and serve hot. They’re fantastic on their own or dipped in your favorite sauce, like cocktail sauce or garlic aioli. Enjoy your fabulous New Year’s Eve bites!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for last-minute party planning!
- Deliciously flavorful with the perfect blend of spices and zesty lemon.
- Light and healthy, making it a guilt-free addition to your New Year’s Eve food spread.
- Impressive yet simple; your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
- Great for pairing with a variety of dips and drinks, enhancing the festive vibe.
- Can be made ahead of time and reheated, so you can enjoy the celebrations without stress.
Tips for Success
To make these baked shrimp truly shine, don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to your taste—add more paprika for a smoky kick or a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicy! Also, I recommend serving them with a variety of dipping sauces, like tangy cocktail sauce or a creamy garlic aioli, to appeal to everyone’s palate. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving for a pop of color and flavor. And remember, the fresher the shrimp, the better the taste—so go for quality! Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider these as typical estimates. For each serving, you can expect approximately 150 calories, 7g of fat, 22g of protein, and just 2g of carbohydrates. Enjoy these tasty bites guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I make these shrimp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp mixture and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
What can I serve with these shrimp?
These baked shrimp pair wonderfully with cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. For a complete New Year’s Eve food spread, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or crispy veggies.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before seasoning. This ensures they bake up nicely without excess moisture.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
They’re ready when they turn pink and opaque, usually after 10-12 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Can I adjust the spices?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs to suit your taste. A little extra garlic or a dash of cayenne can really kick things up a notch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftover baked shrimp (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. When it comes time to enjoy them again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the shrimp on a baking sheet. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out, and reheat for about 8-10 minutes. You want them warm and delicious, not overcooked! If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, but keep an eye on them to avoid rubbery shrimp. Enjoy your fabulous leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
These baked shrimp are so versatile, and they pair beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks to elevate your New Year’s Eve food spread! Consider serving them alongside a vibrant, fresh salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For something heartier, crispy potato skins topped with cheese and bacon make a fantastic match. And let’s not forget about the drinks! A bubbly champagne or a fruity cocktail will perfectly complement the flavors of the shrimp. You could even set up a dipping sauce station with different sauces for added fun and variety. Cheers to a delicious celebration!
