WOULD YOU EAT THIS CAJUN SHRIMP AND STEAK FEAST

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Shrimp:**
– Start by placing the shrimp in a medium-sized bowl. Add the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp well to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
– Let the shrimp marinate for at least 10-15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes if you have the time. This will allow the flavors to soak into the shrimp.

2. **Cook the Steak:**
– While the shrimp is marinating, season the steaks with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the steaks to ensure they cook evenly.
– Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat (or preheat your grill). Once hot, sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness. If you’re cooking on a grill, you can cook the steaks for about 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
– Remove the steaks from the heat and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the steak tender and juicy.

3. **Cook the Shrimp:**
– In a separate skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
– Once done, remove from the heat and set aside.

4. **Serve the Feast:**
– Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin slices.
– Serve the sliced steak alongside the Cajun shrimp on a large platter or individual plates.
– For a complete meal, pair with sautéed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for balance.
– Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty kick.

#### Tips and Variations:

– **Grill the Steak and Shrimp**: If you have access to a grill, consider grilling both the steak and shrimp for a smoky, charred flavor that adds an extra depth to the dish.
– **Make It Spicy**: If you like things extra spicy, add some cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning mix or toss the shrimp with a bit of hot sauce before cooking.
– **Vegetarian Option**: If you’re serving this meal to vegetarians, you can substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or a hearty plant-based protein like tempeh, and use the same Cajun seasoning for flavor.
– **Customize the Seasoning**: The beauty of Cajun cuisine is its bold, versatile flavors. Feel free to experiment with your seasoning mix by adding thyme, oregano, or even a pinch of cinnamon for unique layers of flavor.

#### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The **Cajun Shrimp and Steak Feast** is a true flavor explosion! The blend of Cajun spices, smokiness, and heat makes both the steak and shrimp stand out as stars of the dish. The steak, with its juicy tenderness, pairs perfectly with the quick-cooked shrimp that bursts with flavor and sweetness.

Not only is this meal packed with bold flavors, but it’s also quick to prepare and can be customized to your liking. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just want to enjoy a satisfying, restaurant-worthy meal at home, this feast delivers every time.

The best part? You can prepare this dish in under 30 minutes! It’s a foolproof way to treat yourself to a gourmet meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

So, **would you eat this Cajun shrimp and steak feast?** Absolutely! With its combination of bold, zesty flavors and perfectly cooked proteins, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.