Blackened Shrimp

Ingredients

• 1½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ¾ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 4 lemon wedges (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Steps

1. Pat shrimp very dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Sprinkle the spice mixture generously over the dry shrimp, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Melt butter in a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke slightly.
4. Add shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until shrimp are opaque and deeply colored, almost black.
5. Remove shrimp from skillet immediately. Serve hot with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.