Quick Cajun Shrimp and Veggie Skillet
When it comes to quick and flavorful dinners, this Cajun shrimp and veggie skillet recipe is a game-changer. Whether you’re a fan of Cajun cuisine or simply looking to add some excitement to your weeknight meals, this dish has got you covered. The best part? You can either use pre-made Cajun seasoning or create your own at home, giving you full control over the flavors and heat level. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have your taste buds dancing with joy!
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Preparing Cajun Seasoning
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about Cajun seasoning. While you can easily find pre-made Cajun seasoning in stores, making your own is a rewarding and customizable option. By preparing your own blend, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and avoid any unwanted preservatives. I have a simple homemade Cajun seasoning recipe included here to get you started.

Choosing Your Shrimp
The choice of shrimp can greatly impact the taste and texture of your Cajun shrimp and vegetable skillet. When selecting shrimp for this dish, it’s essential to opt for high-quality, fresh shrimp to ensure the best flavor and overall experience.
In terms of the type of shrimp, there are a few popular options you can consider:
Large or Jumbo Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp are often preferred for this dish as they offer a meatier texture and substantial bite. Their size allows them to hold up well to the bold flavors of the Cajun seasoning and other ingredients in the skillet.
Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: Whether you choose fresh or frozen shrimp depends on your availability and personal preference. Fresh shrimp can offer a slightly sweeter taste and a firmer texture, while frozen shrimp are convenient and can be just as delicious when properly thawed and cooked.

Why Shrimp?
When it comes to nutritional values, shrimp is a fantastic choice for a healthy and protein-packed meal. Not many of us are consuming enough seafood in our diet and we’re missing out on the benefits to be had. Here are some key nutritional benefits of shrimp:
High Protein Content: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein. A 3-ounce (85 grams) serving of cooked shrimp provides about 20 grams of protein, making it a great option for those looking to boost their protein intake.
Low in Calories: Shrimp is relatively low in calories, which makes it suitable for various dietary needs. Three ounces of cooked shrimp contain around 85-100 calories, depending on the size and cooking method.
Rich in Essential Nutrients: Shrimp is a good source of essential nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. It also contains other vitamins and minerals like phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium in smaller amounts.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
While shrimp itself is nutritious, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and cooking methods to maintain a balanced meal. Pairing the Cajun shrimp and vegetable skillet with whole grains like brown rice or quinoa, and adding a variety of colorful vegetables, will further enhance the nutritional value of the dish.
Remember to consider any specific dietary needs or allergies when choosing your shrimp and other ingredients. With the right choice of shrimp and a well-balanced meal, you can enjoy a delicious and wholesome Cajun shrimp and vegetable skillet that satisfies your taste buds and provides nourishment for your body.
You can however swap shrimp for chicken or tofu if you’d like to opt for a different protein source in this dish.
Adding Smoky Andouille Sausages
For an extra layer of flavor and complexity to your Cajun shrimp and vegetable skillet, I incorporated andouille sausage as a fantastic option. Andouille sausage is a traditional smoked sausage that originates from Louisiana, known for its bold and robust flavors that perfectly complement Cajun cuisine.
Andouille sausage is highly seasoned with a blend of spices, including garlic, onion, paprika, and various herbs and peppers. Its smoky and slightly spicy profile adds depth and richness to the overall dish. When combined with the Cajun seasoning and other ingredients, the flavors harmonize, resulting in a tantalizing taste experience.
Along with the succulent shrimp and crisp vegetables, andouille sausage brings a satisfying textural contrast to the skillet. Its slightly chewy and firm texture adds a delightful bite, enhancing the overall mouthfeel of the dish.
Andouille sausage is typically made with pork, which provides an additional source of protein in your meal. This can make your Cajun shrimp and vegetable skillet more filling and satisfying, while still maintaining a balanced combination of protein from the shrimp and sausage. You can also get andouille sausages in a chicken variety.
Quick Cajun Shrimp and Veggie Skillet
With this Cajun shrimp and vegetable skillet recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you choose to make your own Cajun seasoning or opt for a store-bought version, the bold flavors and customizable heat level will leave your taste buds wanting more. So, why not spice up your next dinner with this quick and easy recipe? Your family and friends will be impressed, and you’ll have a new go-to dish that’s bursting with Cajun goodness!
Quick Cajun Shrimp and Veggie Skillet
Cuisine: SouthernDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes15
minutesCajun Seasoning Ingredients
1 T. garlic powder
1 T. smoked paprika
½ T. onion powder
2 t. dried oregano
1 t. dried thyme
2 t. cayenne pepper
1 t. ground white pepper
2 t. fine sea salt
- Skillet Ingredients
1 lbs. jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 T. extra virgin olive oil, divided
3 3-oz. Cajun Andouille sausage links, sliced
½ medium white onion, finely diced
2-3 large cloves garlic, minced
1 medium orange or red bell pepper, finely diced
1 medium green bell pepper (or ½ large), finely diced
1-2 T. Cajun seasoning, divided*
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
1 small yellow squash, sliced and cut into half rounds
1 small zucchini, sliced and cut into half rounds
2 T. fresh parsley, finely chopped
Directions
- Prepare the Cajun seasoning by combining all ingredients together in a bowl. Stir to combine and transfer to an airtight container. Set aside.
- Toss the shrimp with one tablespoon olive oil and one-half tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Set aside.
- Set a large skillet over medium heat and add the Andouille sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned, approximately 4-5 minutes. Transfer sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Add one tablespoon olive oil to the skillet, along with the seasoned shrimp. Spread the shrimp into a single layer without overcrowding. Cook, stirring once, just until the shrimp is opaque and starts to curl, approximately 2 minutes. Do not overcook. Transfer shrimp to the plate with the sausage.
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet, along with the onion, garlic, and the diced bell pepper. Sprinkle with additional Cajun seasoning, to taste, and stir to combine. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and develop some color, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the yellow squash and zucchini to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, just until browned and crisp tender, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the Andouille sausage, shrimp, and fresh parsley. Stir to combine and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Notes
- *Start with one tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Taste and adjust seasonings, as desired.
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