Garlic Shrimp and Veggie Foil Packs Recipe
Garlic Shrimp and Veggie Foil Packs are a simple, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for any occasion. These individually portioned foil packs are loaded with succulent shrimp, tender vegetables, and a buttery garlic sauce. Whether grilled, baked, or cooked over a campfire, this versatile recipe guarantees a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. It’s an ideal choice for meal prep, family dinners, or outdoor adventures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cleanup make it a hassle-free meal.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and cook when ready.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Shrimp Preparation
- If the shrimp are frozen, thaw them under cold running water. Peel and devein if necessary, then pat them dry with paper towels.
- Vegetable Prep
- Wash and slice the zucchini, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the bell peppers, and thinly slice the red onion.
Step 2: Season the Ingredients
- Combine Shrimp and Vegetables
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp and vegetables.
- Add Seasonings
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add Flavorings
- Stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Foil Packs
- Cut the Foil
- Tear off four large sheets of aluminum foil, each about 12–16 inches long.
- Distribute Ingredients
- Divide the shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly among the foil sheets.
- Drizzle Sauce
- Spoon the garlic butter sauce over each portion.
- Seal the Foil Packs
- Fold the foil over the ingredients and crimp the edges tightly to seal. Ensure there are no gaps to prevent leakage.
Step 5: Cook the Foil Packs
Option 1: Grill
- Preheat the Grill
- Heat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
- Cook the Packs
- Place the foil packs directly on the grill grates. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Option 2: Oven
- Preheat the Oven
- Set the oven to 400°F.
- Bake the Packs
- Place the foil packs on a baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes.
Option 3: Campfire
- Prepare the Fire
- Wait until the fire has burned down to glowing embers.
- Cook Over Coals
- Place the foil packs on the embers and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
Step 6: Serve
- Open Carefully
- Use tongs or oven mitts to open the foil packs, being cautious of hot steam.
- Garnish and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
- Avoid overcooking shrimp; they are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Customize the Veggies
- Substitute or add vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or mushrooms based on your preferences.
Make It Spicy
- Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
Double-Layer Foil
- Use two layers of foil for added durability when grilling or cooking over a campfire.
Variations
Mediterranean Twist
- Add kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
Cajun Style
- Replace Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a spicier, smoky flavor.
Low-Carb Option
- Skip the cherry tomatoes and add more low-carb vegetables like zucchini and asparagus.
Protein Swap
- Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or tofu for a different protein source.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
- Store cooked foil pack contents in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Reheating
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Pairing Suggestions
Main Course Accompaniments
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a hearty meal.
Side Dishes
- Garlic bread, mixed greens salad, or roasted potatoes complement the meal beautifully.
Beverages
- Pair with white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer.
Why This Recipe Works
Garlic Shrimp and Veggie Foil Packs combine convenience and flavor effortlessly. The foil locks in moisture, ensuring juicy shrimp and tender vegetables, while the garlic butter sauce enhances every ingredient with a rich, aromatic touch. This recipe’s versatility allows you to tailor it to your preferences, making it a go-to option for quick weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or outdoor gatherings.
Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Garlic Shrimp and Veggie Foil Packs Recipe
Garlic Shrimp and Veggie Foil Packs are a simple, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for any occasion. These individually portioned foil packs are loaded with succulent shrimp, tender vegetables, and a buttery garlic sauce. Whether grilled, baked, or cooked over a campfire, this versatile recipe guarantees a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. It’s an ideal choice for meal prep, family dinners, or outdoor adventures.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven or Grill:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your grill to medium heat. - Prepare the Foil Packs:
Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12x12 inches each). - Mix Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine shrimp, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red bell pepper.
Drizzle with olive oil, add garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated. - Assemble Foil Packs:
Divide the shrimp and veggie mixture evenly among the four foil sheets.
Squeeze lemon juice over each portion, then fold and seal the foil tightly to create packets. - Cook:
Oven Method: Place the foil packs on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Grill Method: Place the foil packs directly on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. - Serve:
Carefully open the foil packs (watch out for steam!) and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitutions: Swap the veggies with your favorites like asparagus, mushrooms, or snap peas.
- Make It Low-Carb: Serve as is or over cauliflower rice.
- Make It a Full Meal: Pair with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.