Are you a seafood lover looking for new and exciting ways to prepare shrimp? Look no further! Shrimp with heads are not only a sustainable and environmentally-friendly choice, but they also add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your dishes. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering recipes that feature shrimp with heads as the main ingredient.
From classic garlic butter to spicy Cajun-inspired flavors, these recipes will take you on a culinary journey around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or bold and spicy, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious shrimp with heads!
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Heads
Experience the simplicity of a classic seafood dish with this garlic butter shrimp recipe featuring heads intact. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this flavorful treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp (heads and tails included)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the paprika to the melted butter and stir to combine.
4. Arrange the shrimp heads-down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure each head is coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp with Heads
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with this bold and flavorful recipe! This dish is a perfect blend of spicy, savory, and sweet, making it a must-try for any shrimp lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp heads on
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp heads and Cajun seasoning; stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add chicken broth and hot sauce; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 5 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp with Heads
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a summer evening. This dish showcases the sweetness of shrimp paired with the tanginess of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads on
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill.
3. Remove heads from shrimp and brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp with Heads
A flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp heads, creamy coconut milk, and fragrant curry spices in a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp heads
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened (3 minutes).
3. Add curry paste; stir-fry 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp heads; cook until pink and cooked through (5-6 minutes per side).
5. Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp with Heads
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that showcases the best of both worlds – tender shrimp and crispy heads. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, shells on
– 4-6 shrimp heads (depending on size)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together garlic, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each shrimp head into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place the coated shrimp heads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp heads and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Chili Glazed Shrimp with Heads
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and spicy glazed shrimp recipe that’s sure to impress! With a simple glaze made from chili flakes, honey, and soy sauce, you’ll be hooked on the flavors in just one bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp heads
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp heads under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the shrimp heads and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until pink.
6. Brush the glaze all over the shrimp heads and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp with Heads in Tomato Basil Sauce
Savor the taste of Italy with this simple and flavorful recipe that pairs succulent shrimp with a rich tomato basil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads on (yes, you read that right!)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp heads to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to curl.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the sauce for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the shrimp are cooked through.
6. Serve the shrimp with heads in the tomato basil sauce, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Shrimp with Heads in Garlic White Wine Sauce
This classic dish is a flavorful and aromatic seafood delight, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The addition of shrimp heads adds a touch of elegance to this succulent sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, heads included
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the white wine, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the shrimp heads (with shells intact) and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they turn bright pink.
5. Remove the shrimp heads with a slotted spoon and discard. Leave the sauce in the skillet.
6. Add the shrimp bodies to the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they’re pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Szechuan Spicy Shrimp with Heads
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy shrimp dish that features whole heads-on shrimp for an added crunch. This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads on
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the shrimp and stir-fry until they start to turn pink, about 1 minute.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, sugar, and sesame oil.
6. Pour the sauce into the wok and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are fully cooked.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp with Heads
A zesty and refreshing twist on traditional shrimp, this recipe combines the brightness of lime juice with the pungency of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads and shells intact
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, heads facing up. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to turn pink.
4. Sprinkle cilantro, lime juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the shrimp.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are fully cooked and bright pink.
6. Serve immediately, heads facing up.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp with Heads in Creamy Garlic Sauce
This classic seafood dish is a crowd-pleaser, with succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in a rich and creamy garlic sauce. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp with heads, shells removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and whisk in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, until slightly thickened.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the creamy garlic sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Shrimp with Heads and Chimichurri
Experience the authentic flavors of Argentina with this simple yet impressive recipe. Grilled shrimp with heads and chimichurri is a perfect combination of succulent seafood and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads on
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar.
3. Add shrimp heads on and toss to coat with chimichurri mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Shrimp with Heads in Spicy Tomato Broth
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional shrimp dishes, this recipe adds a unique element by keeping the heads intact for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads and tails intact
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp heads; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and hot sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp with Heads in Coconut Lime Sauce
A tropical twist on a classic seafood dish, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the creamy richness of coconut and the zesty brightness of lime. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp with heads and shells
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
4. Add coconut milk, lime juice, and shrimp to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cover skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp with Heads in Black Bean Sauce
Shrimp with Heads in Black Bean Sauce Recipe
A flavorful and savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavor of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp with heads removed (or leave them on for added texture)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the shrimp (with heads or without) and stir to coat with the black bean mixture.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp with Heads in Lemon Butter Sauce
Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in a zesty lemon butter sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp with heads intact
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add the shrimp heads-side down to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and slightly charred.
4. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low, add lemon juice, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and simmering.
7. Add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce and toss to coat.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp with Heads in Spicy Garlic Sauce
This bold and flavorful recipe combines succulent shrimp with heads in a spicy garlic sauce that will leave you craving for more. With just the right amount of heat, this dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little excitement in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp with heads, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp with heads and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until pink and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp with Heads in Miso Ginger Broth
This Japanese-inspired recipe combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavors of miso and ginger, creating a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads still attached
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced thinly
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine miso paste, ginger slices, water, soy sauce, sake, and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the shrimp heads and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn pink and the meat starts to release from the shells.
4. Remove the shrimp heads with a slotted spoon and set aside.
5. Continue cooking the broth for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the shrimp with the hot miso ginger broth, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into the world of seafood with these 18 mouth-watering shrimp recipes that feature the added bonus of using the entire head! From classic garlic butter and spicy Cajun flavors to international-inspired dishes like Thai coconut curry and Szechuan spicy, there’s something for every palate. Discover the versatility of using shrimp heads in a range of sauces, from tomato basil and garlic white wine to creamy garlic and miso ginger broth. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to impress!
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