Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (large, about 15-20 count per pound)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Creamed Corn Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (from about 2 ears of grilled or boiled corn)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 4 oz feta cheese (crumbled, divided)
Finishing Touches
- Juice of ½ a lime (approximately 1 tablespoon)
- 1 small lime, sliced, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Extra chili powder or smoked paprika, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Shrimp: Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat until hot. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and let it warm until it easily coats the pan but does not burn. Add the shrimp in a single layer, sprinkling with chili powder and salt. Avoid overcrowding by cooking in batches if necessary. Cook shrimp, flipping once or twice, until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes total. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Creamed Corn Base: In the same empty skillet, add 2 tablespoons salted butter. Once melted, add ½ cup chopped onion and a light sprinkle of salt. Sauté over medium heat for about 3 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently and reducing heat if necessary to prevent burning.
- Add Corn and Spices: Stir in 1 cup cooked corn kernels and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Mix well to combine the flavors evenly.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in 1 cup half-and-half and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add 3 ounces of crumbled feta cheese and stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Squeeze the juice of half a lime into the creamed corn sauce. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently stirring to coat them in the sauce. Warm the shrimp through over low heat without overcooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the dish with the remaining ½ cup corn kernels for added texture. Garnish with fresh lime slices and chopped cilantro. Optionally, sprinkle with extra chili powder or smoked paprika for an additional layer of flavor. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh corn that is grilled or boiled before adding.
- Adjust chili powder and smoked paprika levels to suit your spice preference.
- Use block feta cheese to crumble yourself for the best texture and flavor.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Serve with warm crusty bread or over rice for a more filling meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American