Single-Serve Shrimp With Corn & Green Beans in Parchment Packets
Dive into the simplicity and flavor of single-serve shrimp with corn & green beans in parchment packets. Whether you’re seeking a low-carb option or looking to customize with your favorite veggies, this recipe is a delightful, hassle-free culinary adventure perfect for your dynamic lifestyle.
This single-serve shrimp with corn & green beans in parchment packets is ideal for a swift lunch or a hassle-free dinner. It is a game-changer for those who appreciate simplicity without sacrificing flavor.
You will like this recipe because of its ease of preparation.
Whether you choose aluminum foil for a classic shrimp veggies foil pack or opt for a healthier variant using parchment paper, the process couldn’t be simpler.
Quick Note:
I advise using parchment paper even though aluminum foil might seem simpler. During heating, aluminum foil can leach aluminum particles into the food, which is toxic to the human body.
Also, you’re likely to have these common ingredients on hand: frozen shrimp, corn, green beans, fresh garlic, and a sprinkle of dried chili flakes.
All you need to do is take the ingredients out of the freezer, place them in parchment paper, season them, and the oven will do the rest for you.
Just assemble your ingredients in the pack, and let your oven do the heavy lifting for 20 minutes.
The result? A perfectly cooked, flavorful seafood foil pack that’s just right for one.
Let’s get started.
🌟 Recipe Tips
- Parchment vs Foil: While aluminum foil is a common choice for seafood foil packs, parchment paper is a healthier alternative. It doesn’t react with acidic ingredients and ensures a gentler, more evenly distributed heat, which is crucial for delicate shrimp.
- Seasoning Balance: Garlic and dried chili flakes add depth to your shrimp corn green beans in parchment pack. However, balance is key. Too much garlic can overpower the subtle flavors of the shrimp and veggies, while the right amount of chili flakes adds a pleasant warmth without dominating the dish.
- Seal the Packet Well: Properly sealing the packet is essential. It traps steam and cooks the ingredients evenly. Make sure there are no gaps for steam to escape. This technique ensures that the flavors of the corn, green beans, and shrimp meld beautifully.
- Cooking Time and Temperature: Stick to the recommended cooking time and oven temperature. Overcooking can make the shrimp tough and rubbery. The ideal 20-minute cook time ensures that everything is perfectly tender and flavorful.
🥘 Ingredients & Substitutes
- Frozen Shrimp: These little sea treasures are the star of the dish, bringing a delicate, sweet flavor and a succulent texture. If you’re out of shrimp, try using scallops or chunks of firm white fish like tilapia or cod. They’ll cook in a similar time frame and add their unique taste to the dish
- Frozen Corn: Sweet and crunchy, corn adds a pop of color and a natural sweetness. If you’re looking for a change, frozen peas or diced bell peppers make excellent substitutes. They’ll add a similar sweet crunch and keep your shrimp veggies foil pack vibrant and tasty.
- Frozen Green Beans: They introduce a fresh, earthy element to balance the sweetness of the corn and shrimp. No green beans in the freezer? Asparagus spears or sliced zucchini are fantastic alternatives. They’ll maintain that fresh, green crunch and add a new dimension to the flavors.
- Fresh Garlic: This is the flavor booster, infusing the packet with its unmistakable aroma and taste. If fresh garlic isn’t available, a pinch of garlic powder can be used instead. It’s more concentrated, so use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
- Dried Chili Flakes: These little flakes bring a warm, spicy kick, enhancing the other ingredients without overshadowing them. If you’re out of chili flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of paprika can provide a similar heat and a touch of color to your shrimp and veggies for one.
👩🍳 Directions
First, before we begin, start your oven to preheat it to 350°F (175°C).
Then, take a plate (the plate is only needed to make the process easier, as it helps to arrange the ingredients without them scattering all over the parchment paper while you’re preparing them) and cover it with 2 sheets of parchment paper.
Quick Note:
Make sure the sheets are large enough to be tied into a pouch at the end, approximately 12*16 inches in size.
On the parchment paper, first lay down a layer of frozen green beans, then add the frozen corn, and finally place the shrimp on top (they can be frozen too; there’s no need to wait for them to defrost if you take them out of the freezer).
Then, peel and slice the garlic and sprinkle it over the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, chili pepper, and a bit of olive oil.
Lift the edges of the parchment paper up and tie them with heat-resistant string to form a pouch.
Pro Tip:
Use two layers of parchment paper to prevent any juice from leaking out during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175*C) for approximately 20 minutes.
The food is ready to be served. If you want a more filling meal, you can add some boiled rice on the side, which will complement it perfectly.
🍴 How to Double the Recipe:
Doubling the single-serve shrimp with corn & green beans recipe is straightforward and perfect for when you’re cooking for two. Simply double the amounts of each ingredient: use twice the amount of frozen shrimp, corn, green beans, garlic, and dried chili flakes.
Prepare two separate parchment or foil packets, ensuring each has an even distribution of the ingredients. Cook both packets in the oven at the same temperature, but you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Keep an eye on the packets to ensure everything cooks evenly and enjoy a delightful meal for two, full of flavor and convenience.
🍽️ Servings
Light and Refreshing Salad
- Components: Enhance your shrimp and veggies packet with a side of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced avocado. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Presentation: Place the shrimp and veggies on one side of a large plate. On the other side, arrange the salad. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and the green salad will complement the golden hues of the shrimp packet.
- Occasion: Perfect for a summer lunch or a light dinner. The freshness of the salad pairs beautifully with the warm, savory flavors of the shrimp and veggies.
Italian-Inspired Pasta
- Components: Serve your shrimp and veggies over a bed of cooked linguine or spaghetti. Toss the pasta with olive oil, a bit of the cooking water, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Presentation: Twirl the pasta onto the center of the plate, topping it with the shrimp and veggies. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an Italian touch.
- Occasion: Ideal for a more filling dinner, especially when you’re craving a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Asian Fusion Rice Bowl
- Components: Pair the shrimp and veggies with a serving of jasmine or basmati rice. Add a dash of soy sauce, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and some sliced green onions for an Asian twist.
- Presentation: Place the rice in a bowl, and top with the shrimp and veggies. The sesame seeds and green onions add both flavor and a visually appealing finish.
- Occasion: Great for a cozy dinner or when you’re in the mood for a fusion dish that combines the best of Asian flavors with the simplicity of a seafood foil pack.
🍽️ Variations
Spicy Cajun Variation
- Ingredients: Add a Cajun twist by incorporating Cajun seasoning to the shrimp before baking. Include slices of andouille sausage for an extra kick.
- Method: Mix the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and a little olive oil. Add thinly sliced andouille sausage to the packet along with the veggies.
- Flavor Profile: This variation brings a bold, spicy flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
Mediterranean Herb Delight
- Ingredients: Infuse a Mediterranean flavor by using herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Add cherry tomatoes and olives for a tangy touch.
- Method: Sprinkle the shrimp and veggies with the herbs, and add halved cherry tomatoes and a handful of olives before sealing the packet.
- Flavor Profile: This version offers a fragrant, herbaceous taste, complemented by the sweetness of tomatoes and the briny flavor of olives.
Asian-Inspired Twist
- Ingredients: For an Asian flair, marinate the shrimp in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Add bell peppers and snap peas to the veggies.
- Method: Marinate the shrimp for about 30 minutes before assembling. Add thinly sliced bell peppers and snap peas to the packet.
- Flavor Profile: This variation creates a savory, umami-rich dish with a hint of ginger’s warmth and freshness from the snap peas.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
- Ingredients: Elevate the dish with a zesty lemon garlic sauce. Include lemon slices and a sprinkle of parsley for freshness.
- Method: Place thinly sliced lemon under the shrimp, and drizzle with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and parsley.
- Flavor Profile: This version offers a bright, citrusy flavor, making it refreshing and light, perfect for a summery meal.
❄️ Storage
Refrigerating
- Duration: Properly stored, this dish can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Beyond that, the quality begins to diminish.
- Method: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the veggies soggy and affect the texture of the shrimp.
- Consideration: Be mindful of the smell of shrimp, as it can intensify over time. If it develops a strong, unpleasant odor, it’s best to discard it.
Freezing
- Duration: You can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. However, note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the shrimp and veggies.
- Method: Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Ensure all air is expelled from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Consideration: Label the container with the date, so you remember when it was stored.
Thawing and Reheating
- Thawing: Thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth.
- Reheating: The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F and heat the dish, covered, for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the veggies too soft.
Safety Note
Always inspect the dish before consuming it after storage. If it smells off or shows any signs of spoilage, it’s safer to discard it.
🤔 FAQs
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
How Do I Know When the Shrimp is Cooked Through?
Is It Safe to Cook with Aluminum Foil?
Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead of Frozen?
📔 Recipe Card:
Single-Serve Shrimp With Corn & Green Beans in Parchment Packets
Equipment
- Parchment
- Baking Tray
Ingredients
- 2 oz Green Beans frozen
- 3 oz Corn frozen
- 6 Shrimp
- 1 clove Garlic
- Olive Oil
- Chili flakes
- salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Your Plate: Cover a plate with 2 sheets of parchment paper, ensuring they are large enough to tie into a pouch (about 12×16 inches).
- Layer the Ingredients: On the parchment paper, lay down a layer of frozen green beans, then add frozen corn, and finally place the shrimp on top.2 oz Green Beans, 3 oz Corn, 6 Shrimp
- Add Seasonings: Peel and slice the garlic, sprinkling it over the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, chili pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.1 clove Garlic, Olive Oil, Chili flakes, salt, Black Pepper
- Form the Pouch: Lift the edges of the parchment paper and tie them with heat-resistant string to form a pouch. Use two layers of parchment paper to prevent leaks.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
- Serve: Your dish is ready to enjoy! For a more substantial meal, consider serving with boiled rice.
Notes
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Before sealing your packet, taste a piece of corn or bean (if using fresh) and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, you can always add more seasoning after cooking, but you can’t take it away.
- Parchment Paper Folding Technique: Fold your parchment paper over the ingredients and crimp the edges tightly to seal. This helps to trap steam and cook your meal evenly.
- No Oven? No Problem: If you don’t have an oven, you can cook your foil or parchment packet on a grill. Just be sure to check for doneness a bit earlier, as the grill might cook faster.
- Watch for Hot Steam: When opening the packet after cooking, be cautious of the hot steam that will escape. It’s best to let it sit for a minute before opening.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the green beans and corn for other quick-cooking veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or cherry tomatoes. This can add a different flavor profile and keep the dish exciting.
- Add a Citrus Twist: For a fresh, zesty flavor, consider adding a few slices of lemon or a splash of lemon juice over the shrimp before cooking.
- Wine Pairing: If you’re looking to pair this dish with wine, a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.
- Making it Heartier: If you’re extra hungry, serve your shrimp and veggies over a small bed of quinoa, rice, or your favorite pasta to make the meal more filling.
- Nutritional Considerations: This recipe is naturally low in carbs and can be adapted to fit gluten-free and dairy-free diets easily.
Nutrition
Your Turn
We’d love to hear how you enjoyed the single-serve shrimp with corn & green beans in parchment packets! Your feedback is invaluable, so please take a moment to rate the recipe and leave a comment below.
If you’ve added your own twist to this dish or have useful tips for fellow cooks, be sure to share them in your comment. Your unique experiences and variations could inspire others and add even more flavor to our cooking community!
