Old Bay Sheet Pan Shrimp with Corn and Tomatoes: A Flavorful One-Pan Summer Delight

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Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant meals that capture the season’s essence. Among the myriad of summer recipes, the Old Bay Sheet Pan Shrimp with Corn and Tomatoes stands out as a crowd-pleaser. This dish combines succulent shrimp, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes, all seasoned with the iconic Old Bay spice blend. The best part? It’s prepared on a single sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or looking for a quick family meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes for flavor, simplicity, and presentation.

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This dish is a celebration of summer’s bounty. The combination of charred corn, plump shrimp, and burst cherry tomatoes creates a symphony of textures and flavors. The earthy sweetness of the corn, the umami-packed shrimp, and the tangy juices from the tomatoes are beautifully complemented by the citrusy zing of lemon zest and the herbaceous finish of fresh chives. The Old Bay seasoning ties everything together with its distinctive blend of spices, adding a hint of heat and depth that keeps each bite exciting.

If you’re new to sheet pan dinners, this recipe is an excellent starting point. The ease of preparation, minimal dishes, and perfectly balanced flavors make it a go-to meal you’ll want to recreate time and again. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can bring it to life in your kitchen.

Ingredients Breakdown

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a specific purpose, contributing to the dish’s overall appeal. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Jumbo Shrimp (1 ½ pounds, peeled and deveined, tail-off): Shrimp are the star of this dish, offering a tender, juicy protein source. Their mild flavor allows them to absorb the seasoning and lemon zest beautifully.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons, divided): This oil not only helps coat the ingredients for even cooking but also enhances their natural flavors with its subtle fruity notes.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic adds a robust, aromatic depth to the dish, enhancing the overall savoriness.
• Old Bay Seasoning (1 teaspoon): This iconic blend of celery salt, paprika, and spices is a staple for seafood dishes, bringing a savory, slightly spicy kick.
• Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon, divided): Essential for enhancing and balancing flavors throughout the recipe.
• Corn (4 ears, shucked and kernels removed): Fresh corn adds sweetness and a delightful crunch, especially when charred under the broiler.
• Grape or Cherry Tomatoes (1 pint): These burst during cooking, releasing their juices and creating a natural sauce that coats the shrimp and corn.
• Fresh Chives (2 tablespoons, chopped): Chives provide a mild onion flavor and a touch of freshness.
• Lemon (zest of 1 lemon, plus wedges for serving): Lemon zest brightens the dish with a zesty aroma, while the wedges offer a tangy finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to broil on high. Position the rack about six inches from the heating element for optimal broiling. Line a sheet pan with foil to simplify cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Corn: In a large mixing bowl, toss the fresh corn kernels with one tablespoon of olive oil and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. This ensures the corn is evenly coated for charring. Spread the corn in a single, even layer on the prepared sheet pan.
3. Broil the Corn: Place the sheet pan in the oven and broil for six to seven minutes. Stir the corn halfway through to promote even charring. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The goal is to achieve golden-brown spots that enhance the corn’s natural sweetness. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and set it aside.
4. Season the Shrimp: While the corn is broiling, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Transfer the shrimp to a medium mixing bowl and drizzle with two teaspoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Gently toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
5. Combine and Broil: Spread the seasoned shrimp over the charred corn on the sheet pan. Add the cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the entire mixture. Return the sheet pan to the oven and broil for seven to eight minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, and the tomatoes begin to burst.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped chives. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

This dish is a sensory delight. The sweet aroma of charred corn mingles with the savory scent of garlic and Old Bay seasoning as it broils. The shrimp’s natural brininess is enhanced by the seasoning, while the tomatoes add a tangy burst of freshness. The textures are equally compelling, with the tender shrimp, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy corn creating a harmonious contrast in every bite.

Tips and Tricks

• Shrimp Selection: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp, ensuring they are deveined and peeled for convenience. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before seasoning.
• Corn Substitution: If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn can be used. Simply thaw and pat dry to minimize excess moisture before broiling.
• Tomato Variations: Experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as heirloom or Campari, for unique flavor profiles.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicier kick.
• Herb Alternatives: Swap chives with parsley, cilantro, or green onions for a different herbal note.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up the juices. A light summer salad or grilled vegetables would also complement it beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Old Bay Sheet Pan Shrimp with Corn and Tomatoes is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s quick, requiring only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The single-pan preparation minimizes cleanup, while the vibrant colors and enticing aromas make it a joy to serve. Moreover, its versatility allows you to adapt the recipe to your taste preferences or dietary needs effortlessly.

The nutritional profile is another bonus. With only 295 calories per serving, this dish is both hearty and healthy. The shrimp provide a lean protein source, while the corn and tomatoes add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The olive oil ensures a dose of healthy fats, making this a well-rounded option for a balanced meal.

Bringing It All Together

This recipe encapsulates the best aspects of summer cooking: fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and effortless preparation. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a novice in the kitchen, the Old Bay Sheet Pan Shrimp with Corn and Tomatoes is a dish you can confidently prepare and proudly serve. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, sparking conversations and creating memories over a shared love for good food.

So, the next time you’re looking for a recipe that combines ease, flavor, and visual appeal, give this one a try. Gather your ingredients, fire up the broiler, and let the magic of summer’s freshest flavors transform your dinner table. With its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!