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1. **Preheat the Oven**
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will ensure that the shrimp bake quickly, keeping them tender and moist without drying out.
2. **Prepare the Baking Dish**
In a baking dish or a large sheet pan, drizzle a little olive oil to prevent the shrimp from sticking. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. This allows the heat to circulate properly, ensuring even cooking.
3. **The Flavor Base**
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. Once the garlic has released its aroma, add the lemon juice, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together to combine, creating a rich, aromatic sauce.
4. **Coat the Shrimp**
Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp, making sure each piece is coated evenly. This sauce will infuse the shrimp with its flavors as it bakes, creating that “magic” that turns simple shrimp into a show-stopping dish.
5. **Baking Time**
Place the shrimp in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as shrimp cook quickly and can become tough if left in the oven for too long.
6. **Garnish and Serve**
Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately, and be prepared to wow your guests with a deliciously magical dish.
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### Health Benefits of Magic Baked Shrimp
While the recipe for Magic Baked Shrimp is undeniably delicious, it also offers a variety of health benefits that make it a great option for a balanced meal.
1. **Rich in Protein**
Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining muscle mass. This makes shrimp an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet or build muscle.
2. **Low in Calories**
Shrimp is low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or reduce their calorie intake. With only about 7 calories per shrimp, it’s an easy way to add protein to your meals without the excess calories found in other meats.
3. **Packed with Nutrients**
Shrimp is a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients support heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Additionally, the omega-3s found in shrimp are beneficial for reducing inflammation and promoting cardiovascular health.
4. **Good for Skin Health**
The selenium found in shrimp acts as a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative damage, which can lead to signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines. Consuming shrimp regularly can contribute to maintaining youthful, radiant skin.
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### Pairing Suggestions for Magic Baked Shrimp
While Magic Baked Shrimp is a fantastic dish on its own, it can be paired with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Here are some ideas to complement the flavors of the shrimp:
1. **Garlic Bread**
A warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to shrimp, as it can soak up the rich sauce left behind from the shrimp, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
2. **Steamed Vegetables**
Lightly steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans, offer a fresh, crunchy contrast to the richness of the shrimp. They also add a pop of color to the plate.
3. **Rice or Quinoa**
A bed of fluffy rice or quinoa provides a great base for the shrimp and sauce. The grains absorb the flavorful sauce, creating a delicious side dish to accompany the shrimp.
4. **Green Salad**
A fresh, tangy green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the shrimp and provide a refreshing contrast to the dish.
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### Conclusion
Magic Baked Shrimp is a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that packs a punch in terms of flavor and health benefits. With its perfect balance of savory garlic, zesty lemon, and rich butter, it’s no wonder why this dish has earned the title of “magic.” Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and leave your guests asking for more.
With its simplicity, nutritional value, and impressive flavor profile, Magic Baked Shrimp is a must-try for any seafood lover. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to experience the magic for yourself!
