A Guide to Cooking with Key West Pink Shrimp

A Guide to Cooking with Key West Pink Shrimp

Key West pink shrimp are a delicacy of the Gulf waters, prized for their sweet flavor, tender texture, and beautiful pink hue. Found off the coast of the Florida Keys, these shrimp are a favorite among seafood lovers and chefs alike. Whether you're new to cooking shrimp or looking to enhance your culinary repertoire, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about cooking with Key West pink shrimp.

Why Choose Key West Pink Shrimp?

Key West pink shrimp stand out for their unique characteristics:

  • Sweet Flavor: Their naturally sweet taste sets them apart from other shrimp varieties.
  • Sustainability: They are responsibly harvested from the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
  • Year-Round Availability: Unlike some seafood, Key West pink shrimp are available all year, ensuring freshness no matter the season.

Preparing Key West Pink Shrimp

Before diving into recipes, it's essential to prepare your shrimp properly:

  1. Cleaning:
    • Rinse the shrimp under cold water.
    • Peel off the shell if desired (though it can add flavor when cooking).
    • Use a small knife or shrimp deveiner to remove the vein running along the back.
  2. Cooking Tips:
    • Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery. Watch for them to turn opaque and curl slightly into a "C" shape.
    • Keep the tails on for a more appealing presentation, especially in dishes like shrimp cocktails or stir-fries.

Top Recipes for Key West Pink Shrimp

1. Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp

This simple and elegant recipe lets the sweet flavor of Key West pink shrimp shine.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Key West pink shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
  4. Add lemon juice and red pepper flakes, stirring to coat.
  5. Garnish with parsley and serve with crusty bread or over pasta.

 

2. Key West Shrimp Tacos

Bring a taste of the tropics to your table with these flavorful tacos.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Key West pink shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 8 small tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

For the sauce:

  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce

Instructions:

  1. Toss shrimp in olive oil, chili powder, and paprika.
  2. Sauté in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through.
  3. Mix sour cream, lime juice, and hot sauce for the sauce.
  4. Assemble tacos with shrimp, cabbage, avocado, and sauce. Serve with lime wedges.

 

3. Shrimp Scampi

This classic Italian-American dish is quick to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Key West pink shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 12 oz linguine, cooked
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet.
  2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side.
  4. Add white wine, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes, simmering for 3 minutes.
  5. Toss with cooked linguine and garnish with parsley.

 

4. Key West Shrimp Salad

Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this refreshing salad highlights the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Key West pink shrimp, cooked and chilled
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Combine greens, tomatoes, avocado, corn, and red onion in a large bowl.
  2. Whisk together dressing ingredients and drizzle over the salad.
  3. Top with chilled shrimp and serve immediately.

 

5. Key West Pink Shrimp Boil

This festive dish is perfect for gatherings and embodies the flavors of the Florida Keys.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds Key West pink shrimp, shell-on
  • 4 ears of corn, cut into thirds
  • 1 pound baby potatoes
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • Melted butter for dipping

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add Old Bay, garlic powder, and lemon.
  2. Add potatoes and cook for 10 minutes.
  3. Add corn and cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Toss in shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink.
  5. Drain and serve with melted butter and extra lemon wedges.

Tips for Cooking with Key West Pink Shrimp

  • Fresh or Frozen: While fresh shrimp is ideal, frozen Key West pink shrimp are an excellent option. Thaw them properly in the refrigerator or under cold running water.
  • Versatility: These shrimp can be grilled, boiled, sautéed, or steamed, making them perfect for various cuisines and recipes.
  • Pairings: Enhance their flavor with citrus, garlic, butter, or tropical fruits like mango and pineapple.
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