Looking for a fresh twist on the classic shrimp boil? This Zesty Shrimp Boil with Citrus Twist brings a burst of sunny flavors to your table with the addition of vibrant lemons and oranges, making it perfect for any season. Dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing dish that's as fun to make as it is to eat!
Shrimp: These are the stars of the show, offering a tender, juicy bite. Be sure to choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results.
Red potatoes: Halved for quicker cooking, they add a hearty element to the mix and absorb the delicious flavors of the boil.
Corn on the cob: Sweet and juicy, corn rounds out the dish and adds a summery touch.
Smoked sausage: Provides a savory contrast with its rich, smoky flavor. Slice it up for easy bites.
Lemons and oranges: These add a zesty, citrusy brightness that elevates the whole dish. The combination helps balance out the flavors.
Old Bay seasoning: A classic seafood seasoning that packs a punch of flavor with its mix of spices.
Garlic: Freshly minced, it enhances the overall aroma and taste.
Butter: Melted over the finished dish, it adds a rich, indulgent finish.
Fresh parsley: A final garnish for a pop of color and freshness.
This dish is perfect for a laid-back dinner party. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the buttery, garlicky juices, or alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal. A cold, crisp white wine or a light beer makes an excellent pairing.
Start by filling a large pot with about 6 quarts of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Stir in the Old Bay seasoning to infuse the water with its spicy, aromatic goodness.
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the red potatoes. Let them cook for about 10 minutes; they should be starting to soften but not fully cooked through.
Next, toss in the corn and smoked sausage. Allow these to cook for another 5 minutes. This step lets the corn get tender and the sausage to meld with the flavors in the pot.
Add the shrimp and the quartered lemons and oranges to the pot. The citrus will infuse the shrimp with a fresh, zesty flavor. Cook everything together until the shrimp turn pink, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Once cooked, drain the pot thoroughly. Return the ingredients to the pot, and immediately toss them with the melted butter, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer everything to a large serving platter or straight to the table for a more rustic approach. Garnish generously with fresh parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.