How to Make Delicious Traeger Smoked Shrimp

The Cajun Smoked Shrimp recipe from Traeger Grills offers a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the zest of Cajun seasoning with the freshness of shrimp. The recipe involves marinating the shrimp for several hours to ensure the flavors are well absorbed, followed by grilling them to perfection. This dish is ideal for those who enjoy bold flavors and quick, yet impressive meals.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 pounds raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

Preparation Steps:

1. Marinating:

   • Combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and salt in a large resealable bag.
   • Add the shrimp, seal the bag, and massage it to coat the shrimp evenly.
   • Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

2. Grilling:

   • Preheat the Traeger grill to 450°F (232°C) with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
   • Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers.
   • Place the skewers directly on the hot grill grate.
   • Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the shrimp flesh becomes opaque.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy.

Cajun Smoked Shrimp: A Flavorful Grilling Experience

Cajun cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions, and nothing exemplifies this better than Cajun Smoked Shrimp. This dish, with its roots in the heart of Louisiana, brings together the perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients to create a meal that's as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

A Symphony of Flavors: The magic of Cajun Smoked Shrimp lies in its marinade. A harmonious blend of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and robust Cajun seasoning creates a marinade that infuses the shrimp with a depth of flavor that's both zesty and savory. The addition of kosher salt enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, ensuring each bite is a burst of flavor.

The Marination Process: Marinating the shrimp is a crucial step that shouldn't be rushed. By allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, the flavors have ample time to penetrate the meat, resulting in a dish that's flavorful throughout. The olive oil helps to keep the shrimp moist while grilling, and the lemon juice adds a refreshing citrus note that balances the heat from the Cajun seasoning.

Grilling to Perfection: Grilling the shrimp on a Traeger grill at a high temperature of 450°F ensures a quick cook time, sealing in the juices and creating a slight char that adds to the overall flavor profile. Skewering the shrimp makes them easy to handle and prevents them from falling through the grill grates. Cooking them for just 3 to 4 minutes per side keeps the shrimp tender and prevents them from becoming rubbery.

Serving Suggestions: Cajun Smoked Shrimp can be served in a variety of ways. They make an excellent appetizer, served with a tangy dipping sauce, or a main course, paired with rice or a fresh salad. For a true Cajun experience, consider serving them alongside other Cajun favorites like jambalaya or gumbo.

Conclusion:

Cajun Smoked Shrimp is a testament to the bold and vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine. This recipe, while simple, delivers a dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're a seasoned griller or a novice, this dish is a great addition to any cooking repertoire. So, fire up your grill and treat yourself to the delectable flavors of Cajun Smoked Shrimp.