Shrimp is a seafood with lots of nutrients, and they’re low in calories and fat. They are also rich in vitamin B12 and selenium, which promote cell growth and function and protect the heart from damage.

They’re also an excellent source of protein. A 3-ounce serving of shrimp is 20% of the recommended daily amount, so you can add them to meals that require a lot of protein without adding too many extra calories.

There are a number of ways to cook shrimp, from sauteing them in butter to boiling them in water. But before you start cooking, it’s important to know a few tips to make sure your shrimp are cooked through and have the texture you want.

1. Use Deveined Shrimp

It’s best to buy shrimp that are deveined, which means they have been cut along their back to remove any veins. This helps to draw out flavor and makes it easier to judge the doneness of your shrimp during cooking.

2. Season the Shrimp

You can add all kinds of spices to your shrimp during cooking, including cayenne pepper, paprika, and even garlic powder. The key is to add a mix of herbs and spices to your dish that will complement the seafood without overpowering it.

3. Saute the Shrimp

When cooking shrimp in a skillet, it’s essential to get a good sear on their outsides so they’re cooked through. It’s also critical to check them frequently for the right color and texture. If you cook them too long, they’ll become dry and stringy.

4. Bake the Shrimp

Another great way to cook shrimp is by baking them in the oven. This is a quick and easy option that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover shrimp.

5. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

When making shrimp in a skillet, it’s critical to watch them carefully so they don’t overcook. Overcooking can result in dry, stringy shrimp, so be sure to check them often and turn them over as soon as they change colors.

6. Keep an Eye on the Heat

Unlike meat, shrimp will continue to cook once you remove them from the pan. It’s best to transfer them to a bowl, plate or platter as soon as they’re done so that they can be plated up and served immediately.

7. Keep a close eye on the Shrimp

Once your shrimp are in the pan, you should have no trouble spotting them as they begin to change colors and become pink on the bottom. They’ll also start to turn bright red on their tails. It’s important to remember that smaller shrimp cook faster than larger ones, so pay close attention to their progress and cook them until they’re pink and opaque, about 2 minutes.

When they’re ready, you can serve the shrimp in a variety of dishes, including pasta, polenta, salads, and more. They’re a perfect partner to all sorts of flavors and are a delicious, easy addition to any meal.