Large Cooked Shrimp
Large Cooked Shrimp 16/20 Count refers to shrimp that are already cooked and have a count of 16-20 shrimp per pound. These shrimp are slightly smaller than the "giant" 8-12 count shrimp, but they are still large and perfect for various dishes, especially when you want a shrimp with some size but still easy to handle and eat.
How to Cook with Large Cooked Shrimp 16/20 Count:
Since these shrimp are already cooked, they’re quick and easy to prepare. Here are some ideas for how to use them in various dishes:
1. Shrimp Cocktail:
Large cooked shrimp 16/20 count are perfect for shrimp cocktails, where you can showcase their size.
Instructions:
-
Chill the Shrimp: If your shrimp are thawed, chill them in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.
-
Make Cocktail Sauce: Combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce for a zesty cocktail sauce.
-
Serve: Arrange the shrimp on a platter around a bowl of cocktail sauce, garnished with lemon wedges.
2. Shrimp Salad:
Large shrimp can be used in a variety of salad dishes, adding protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
-
Large cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
Mixed greens (like arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
-
Avocado, diced
-
Cherry tomatoes, halved
-
Cucumber, sliced
-
Red onion, thinly sliced
-
Dressing: olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper
Instructions:
-
Assemble the Salad: Toss mixed greens, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion in a large bowl.
-
Add the Shrimp: Gently toss the shrimp with the salad or place them on top for a nice presentation.
-
Dress the Salad: Drizzle with a simple lemon vinaigrette (olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper).
-
Serve: Serve the salad as a main or side dish.
3. Shrimp Tacos:
Large cooked shrimp are perfect for shrimp tacos, where their size adds to the texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
-
Large cooked shrimp
-
Soft tortillas (corn or flour)
-
Shredded cabbage or lettuce
-
Pico de gallo or salsa
-
Avocado, sliced
-
Fresh cilantro
-
Lime wedges
-
Crema or sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
-
Warm the Shrimp: Heat the cooked shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, just until warmed through.
-
Warm the Tortillas: Lightly toast the tortillas in a dry pan or on a grill.
-
Assemble the Tacos: Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, then top with shredded cabbage, salsa, avocado slices, and cilantro.
-
Serve: Garnish with lime wedges and a drizzle of crema or sour cream.
4. Shrimp Pasta:
Large cooked shrimp work beautifully in pasta dishes like shrimp scampi or shrimp alfredo.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta: Prepare your favorite pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine) according to the package directions.
-
Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. Then, add lemon juice, white wine (or chicken broth), and a pinch of red pepper flakes, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
-
Add the Shrimp: Stir in the cooked shrimp to the sauce and warm them through.
-
Combine: Toss the pasta with the sauce and shrimp, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
-
Serve: Top with freshly chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese.
5. Shrimp Fried Rice:
Shrimp fried rice is a great way to repurpose large cooked shrimp into a savory and satisfying meal.
Instructions:
-
Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, sauté onions, peas, carrots, and bell peppers in oil.
-
Add Rice: Add cooked rice to the pan and stir to combine with the veggies.
-
Add Shrimp: Stir in the cooked shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
-
Season: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and any other seasonings you prefer. You can also add scrambled eggs for extra texture.
-
Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
6. Shrimp Stir-Fry:
A quick and healthy stir-fry with large cooked shrimp can make for an easy weeknight dinner.
Instructions:
-
Stir-Fry Veggies: In a wok or large pan, stir-fry your favorite veggies (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, etc.) in oil until tender-crisp.
-
Add Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir to combine.
-
Sauce It: Add stir-fry sauce (soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey or sesame oil) and toss everything together.
-
Serve: Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
7. Shrimp Wraps:
For a fresh and light meal, large cooked shrimp can be wrapped in lettuce leaves or tortillas.
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves or soft tortillas.
-
Fill the Wraps: Place the shrimp in the center, then add your favorite fillings like shredded carrots, avocado, cilantro, and a drizzle of spicy mayo or garlic sauce.
-
Serve: Roll up the wraps and serve immediately for a light meal or appetizer.
Serving Suggestions:
-
Sauces: Pair with garlic butter, spicy mayo, cocktail sauce, or a tangy aioli.
-
Sides: Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, crispy fries, or a fresh salad.
Health Benefits:
Large cooked shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein, low in fat, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. They are also very low in calories, making them a great option for those looking to eat healthy.
Whether you're serving them as an appetizer, part of a main course, or in a casual meal, large cooked shrimp 16/20 count are a versatile and flavorful ingredient. Let me know if you need more recipes or tips!