Quick and Flavorful Chef-Inspired Dinner

No time for elaborate meals? We’ve got you covered! This classic recipe is not only low in calories but also a breeze to prepare. From fridge to table in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love It:

Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in under 15 minutes.
Low-Calorie: Perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
Balanced: You’ve got protein from the shrimp, fiber from the veggies, and whole grains from the brown rice.
Flavorful: The garlic, lemon, and Old Bay seasoning create a symphony of tastes.

What Is Old Bay Seasoning?

Our recipe uses a special blend seasoning full of flavor.

Old Bay Seasoning is a beloved spice blend that has become synonymous with seafood and coastal cuisine. Let’s dive into the details:

History of Old Bay Seasoning:
In 1939, a German immigrant named Gustav Brunn founded the Baltimore Spice Company in downtown Baltimore.
Brunn initially created a spice blend called “Delicious Brand Shrimp and Crab Seasoning” to cater to the nearby seafood market.
Later, this blend was renamed Old Bay seasoning, inspired by the Old Bay Line passenger ship that sailed the Chesapeake Bay in the early 1900s.
In 1990, McCormick & Co. acquired the rights to Old Bay, continuing its legacy in the iconic yellow can we recognize today¹.

Ingredients:

Old Bay is a versatile blend of 18 herbs and spices.

While the exact recipe remains a mystery, some known ingredients include:

Celery seed
Paprika
Mustard
Salt
Red pepper
Black pepper

These spices combine to create a robust and zesty flavor that pairs exceptionally well with seafood, especially Maryland Blue Crabs, and Cajun dishes.

Usage

Old Bay seasoning is not limited to seafood; it’s also fantastic on other dishes.

Try it on:
Fish and shrimp dishes
Chicken
Vegetables
Soups
And yes, some enthusiasts even sprinkle it on French fries, popcorn, and lollipops!
The aromatic and savory blend adds depth and character to various recipes².

Make Your Own:
Although the original recipe remains a secret, many home cooks have attempted to create their own versions.
You can make a substitute using common spices from your pantry.

Next time you’re cooking seafood or craving a touch of nostalgia, reach for that iconic yellow can of Old Bay! 🌊🦀🍤.

Shrimp with Vegetables and Rice

Ingredients

2-4 servings – Average 300 calories per serving

1 ½ pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 large zucchini (or zucchini), sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cups baby spinach
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup chicken stock
1 tbsps. Old Bay seasoning
2 cups cooked brown rice

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and onion. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add lemon juice and chicken stock and simmer for 1 minute.
Push the vegetables to the side and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with Old Bay seasoning.
Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque (about 3-4 minutes).
Mix the shrimp with the sautéed vegetables. Add spinach at the end and mix in until wilted.
Serve over cooked brown rice for a wholesome and flavorful meal.