Sergio's Gulf Shrimp Recipe

Prepare shrimp

Rinse the Gulf shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels. If not already done, peel and devein, leaving tails on or off per preference.

In a medium bowl combine 2 tbs olive oil, 2 tbs fresh lemon juice, minced garlic (3 cloves), 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper and 1 tsp hot sauce (if using). Whisk to emulsify.

Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Let sit 10-20 minutes at room temperature (or up to 30 minutes refrigerated). Do not over-marinate more than 30–45 minutes or the acid will start to firm the shrimp.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add 1 tbs olive oil and swirl to coat.

Working in a single layer (cook in two batches if needed to avoid crowding), add shrimp to the hot skillet and sear 1.5–2 minutes per side until opaque and just cooked through. Shrimp will curl and turn pink. Remove cooked shrimp to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil.

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet add 3 tbs unsalted butter. When butter begins to foam, add the finely minced shallot and sauté 1–2 minutes until softened and translucent (do not brown). Add the additional 1 clove garlic and sauté 20–30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in 1 tbs white wine (or chicken stock) and scrape up any browned bits from the pan; let it reduce for about 1 minute. Stir in 1 tsp lemon zest and 1/2 tsp creole or Dijon mustard (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper as needed.

Return the cooked shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Toss to coat in the butter sauce and warm through for 30–60 seconds.

Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbs chopped fresh parsley. Spoon sauce over shrimp.

Serve Sergio's Gulf Shrimp immediately over steamed rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges and additional parsley if desired.

Estimated plating: 4 servings. Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours (reheat gently to avoid overcooking).