5 Super-Easy and Delicious Shrimp Recipes from a Pro Cook

Shrimp is a busy cook’s best friend: It’s convenient and healthy, and so versatile — it goes well in many types of dishes in varying cuisines. Plus, it’s great hot or cold. We’re always on the hunt for new shrimp recipes — so we asked one of our favorite bloggers, Caitlin Prettyman of Kalefornia Kravings, for some of hers.

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Prettyman, author of the beautiful new cookbook Fast & Fresh Cal-Mex Cooking, is a wizard at taking simple ingredients and creatively combining them into simple to make yet super-impressive dishes. She loves cooking with shrimp in part because it’s so quick. “I love knowing I can have an easy shrimp dinner on the table in minutes,” she says. “Plus, shrimp is so versatile. Their mild flavor pairs so well with a variety of ingredients, spices, and sauces.”

Here are 5 of Prettyman’s shrimp recipes that are sure to become part of your regular rotation.

1. Lemon Roasted Shrimp Cocktail

When it comes to shrimp recipes, a cocktail is a must. Serve this for a party, or make it part of your meal prep for quick high-protein meals. Roasting shrimp is a great way to make sure they don’t overcook and turn rubbery. While they’re in the oven, you can toss together the homemade cocktail sauce, which is easier to make than you would think, and so impressive.

Try the recipe.

2. Baked Greek Shrimp Skillet with Feta

A skillet meal that’s on the table in less than 30 minutes and loaded with Mediterranean flavors — yes, please. With tomatoes, feta, olives, and herbs, this shrimp dish is flavorful and satisfying. Serve it with rice, orzo, or crusty bread to round out the meal. “People usually ‘eat with their eyes’ first, so I’m also constantly asking myself, ‘How can I make this more visually appealing?’” Prettyman says. This one certainly looks as good as it tastes.

Try the recipe.

3. Avocado Salsa Shrimp Salad

This healthy, protein-packed salad is so tasty, you won’t believe how simple it is to toss together. Use your favorite jarred salsa to tie it all together. Serve it as an appetizer, for a quick and refreshing meal, or take it to a party and watch it disappear. Add the avocado just before serving.

Try the recipe.

4. Easy Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

If you want to get everyone to the table fast, whip up these fajitas, which couldn’t be simpler since you make them on a sheet pan. With just 6 ingredients, it’s a snap to put together, and you can serve it with tortillas, on a salad, as a nacho topper, or in a rice bowl.

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5. Easy Jerk Shrimp with Mango Salsa

Spicy jerk seasoning and sweet-tangy mango salsa make this a standout among shrimp recipes. Serve this dairy- and gluten-free dish with rice, cauliflower rice, or boiled new potatoes for a delicious and colorful meal. “Don’t be afraid to experiment with cooking, especially when it comes to shrimp,” Prettyman says. “There are so many recipes out there and different styles of cooking — I’d encourage anyone to keep trying various styles and ingredients until they find something they love.” 

Try the recipe.

Read next: 10 Healthy Shrimp Recipes to Try This Week