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Overhead view of seared Cajun shrimp with charred bell peppers and zucchini in a dark skillet, lemon wedge on the side

Smoky Seared Cajun Shrimp and Veggie Skillet

Cajun-seasoned shrimp sears fast with bell peppers, zucchini, and onion in one skillet for a light, high-protein dinner ready in 25 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 227
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shrimp
  • 500 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided 1 tbsp for shrimp, 1 tbsp for veggies
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning check label for gluten if needed
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
Veggies
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons medium
  • 1 red onion, sliced small
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
To finish
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

Prep the shrimp and veggies
  1. Pat the shrimp fully dry with paper towels, then toss in a mixing bowl with 1 tbsp olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using) until evenly coated.
  2. Slice the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, and mince the garlic. Keep everything within reach since the pan moves fast once it's hot.
Cook the skillet
  1. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 60 to 90 seconds per side, until pink and curled into a C shape, 145 F / 63 C internal. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Add the bell peppers, zucchini, and onion to the same skillet. Saute for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender and lightly charred at the edges.
  4. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  5. Return the shrimp to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Toss with the veggies and squeeze in the lemon juice. Warm through for 1 to 2 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in the parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve right away.

Notes

  • Pat shrimp bone dry before seasoning for a better sear.
  • Sear shrimp in a single layer, don't stack the pan.
  • Pull shrimp at 145 F / 63 C, no later.
  • Slice veggies evenly so they cook at the same pace.
  • Add lemon juice off heat to keep it bright.