**Baked Cajun Shrimp**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
**Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
**Step 2: Prepare the Cajun Marinade**
2. In a large bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and season with salt and black pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create the flavorful Cajun marinade.
**Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp**
3. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the Cajun marinade. Toss the shrimp in the marinade to ensure they are evenly coated with the delicious mixture. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the robust flavors.
**Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet**
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated shrimp on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other.
**Step 5: Bake the Shrimp**
5. Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until they turn pink and become opaque. Be cautious not to overcook them, as this can result in a rough texture.
**Step 6: Garnish with Fresh Parsley**
6. Once out of the oven, sprinkle the hot, baked Cajun shrimp with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra vibrancy.
**Step 7: Serve**
7. Serve the Baked Cajun Shrimp while hot. This dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer, served over rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices left behind after baking the shrimp in the Cajun seasoning.
This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe delivers a burst of Cajun flavors in every succulent bite. Enjoy the heat and zest of this dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends.