Steaming shrimp is a simple, healthy way to cook them. It keeps the shrimp juicy and tender without using oil or butter. Great for a light meal or appetizer.
If using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water or in the refrigerator overnight. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
1 pound raw shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp with a small knife. Rinse well.
Place a steamer basket in a large pot. Add enough cold water to pot so the water barely touches the bottom of the steamer basket. Add a big pinch of salt.
cold water, salt
Bring the water to a boil. Cover with a lid and steam for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on their size. Cook until the shrimp are bright pink and their flesh is opaque and white. (see Notes for cooking times.)
Remove the shrimp with a spoon and place them in ice water for 5 minutes to cool. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before transferring them to a serving dish.
Serve with lemon wedges, melted butter, and/or cocktail sauce.
1 lemon
Notes
To Add Extra Flavor to Steamed Shrimp
Top the raw shrimp with a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning. Add a tablespoon or two of lemon or lime juice to the steaming water.
Drop a few smashed garlic cloves into the water before cooking.
Top the raw shrimp with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for more flavor.
How Long To Steam Shrimp
Medium shrimp need about 2 ½ minutes
Large shrimp should be steamed for 3 minutes.
Jumbo shrimp takes about 4 ½ minutes.
Colossal shrimp take about 5 minutes.
For shrimp in a shell, add an extra minute to the cooking time.