Shrimp are beloved for their mild, sweet flavor and firm, juicy texture. They are a versatile ingredient in almost any recipe-from appetizer to main dish-because they can be prepared using a variety of cooking techniques.
One of the simplest methods of cooking is simply to boil or steam shrimp. Serve them, once cooled, with a dipping sauce as an appetizer. Or, add them to a side salad for an easy lunchtime entrée. For added ease, purchase pre-cooked shrimp from your seafood counter or frozen seafood aisle.
Before broiling or grilling shrimp, quickly marinate or spray with a thin layer of oil. Drizzle with a sauce or pesto just before serving to add another layer of flavor. When baked, shrimp are best with a sauce that adds moisture and flavor. Other popular methods for preparing shrimp include sautéing and deep-frying.
Because shrimp cook quickly, they may be cooked certain ways with their shells in place to help lock in moisture. For less involved eating, de-vein and peel shrimp before cooking.
No matter which preparation method is used, shrimp are properly cooked when their texture changes from mushy to firm, their color turns from brownish-gray to a warm orangey-pink, and their meat becomes opaque. Shrimp are overcooked when they curl tightly inwards and their flesh becomes rubbery. Watch them carefully and remove them promptly from the heat when they are cooked through.
