How To Cook Argentine Red Shrimp With Shell On

Argentine red shrimp are prized for their sweet, lobster-like flavor and tender texture. Unlike regular shrimp, they have a naturally vibrant red color even when raw. Cooking them with the shell on enhances their flavor and keeps them moist and juicy. This guide will walk you through the best methods to cook Argentine red shrimp with their shell intact.

Why Cook Argentine Red Shrimp With Shell On?

Cooking shrimp with the shell on has several benefits:

• Enhances Flavor: The shell adds depth to the shrimp’s taste, making it richer and more intense.
• Prevents Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly, and the shell helps retain moisture, preventing them from drying out.
• Adds a Rustic Presentation: Whole shrimp with shells look more appealing on a plate, making them perfect for special meals.

How to Prepare Argentine Red Shrimp

Before cooking, it’s important to prepare the shrimp properly:

1. Cleaning the Shrimp

• Rinse Under Cold Water: Run the shrimp under cold water to remove any debris or ice.
• Remove the Vein (Optional): Although not necessary, you can devein the shrimp by making a small slit along the back and removing the dark vein with a toothpick or knife.
• Pat Dry: Use a paper towel to remove excess moisture, helping with even cooking.

2. Choosing Cooking Methods

Argentine red shrimp are incredibly versatile and can be cooked using various methods. Below are some of the best techniques to highlight their natural flavor.

Best Ways to Cook Argentine Red Shrimp With Shell On

1. Grilled Argentine Red Shrimp

Grilling is one of the best ways to cook Argentine red shrimp, as it enhances their natural sweetness with a smoky touch.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Argentine red shrimp (shell on)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss the shrimp in the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the shrimp directly on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and slightly charred.
5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and garnish with parsley before serving.

2. Pan-Seared Argentine Red Shrimp

Pan-searing shrimp is quick, easy, and enhances their natural flavor with a golden crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Argentine red shrimp (shell on)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic and chili flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Place the shrimp in the pan in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side.
4. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes until opaque.
5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and serve immediately.

3. Boiled Argentine Red Shrimp

Boiling is a simple and effective way to cook shrimp while keeping them moist and juicy.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Argentine red shrimp (shell on)
• 6 cups water
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 lemon (sliced)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp black peppercorns

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt, lemon slices, bay leaf, and peppercorns.
2. Reduce to a simmer and add the shrimp.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and curl.
4. Drain and let them rest for a minute before serving with melted butter or cocktail sauce.

4. Baked Argentine Red Shrimp

Baking shrimp is a great hands-off method that locks in their natural juices.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Argentine red shrimp (shell on)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the shrimp are opaque and slightly crispy.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice before serving.

5. Sauteed Argentine Red Shrimp in Garlic Butter

For a rich, buttery flavor, sautéing is a great option.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Argentine red shrimp (shell on)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat and melt the butter.
2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds.
3. Place the shrimp in the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Season with salt and finish with lemon juice and parsley.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Argentine Red Shrimp

• Do Not Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking makes them rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn opaque.
• Use High Heat for Searing: High heat helps create a slight char and enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor.
• Experiment With Spices: While simple seasonings work best, you can add Cajun, Old Bay, or other spice blends for extra flavor.

How to Serve Argentine Red Shrimp

• With Garlic Butter Sauce: Melted butter mixed with garlic and herbs makes an excellent dipping sauce.
• As a Topping for Pasta: Toss cooked shrimp with pasta, olive oil, and parmesan for a quick meal.
• With Fresh Salad: Serve shrimp over a bed of greens with avocado and citrus dressing.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Shrimp pairs well with grains for a balanced meal.

Argentine red shrimp are a delicacy that can be prepared in various ways while keeping the shell on. Whether grilled, sautéed, or baked, these shrimp retain their natural sweetness and tenderness. By following these simple cooking techniques, you can enjoy a flavorful and restaurant-quality dish right at home.