This vibrant dish combines succulent shrimp with sweet creamed corn, elevated by Mexican-inspired spices and a rich feta sauce.
Essential Ingredients
Fresh corn - grilled for optimal flavor
Large raw shrimp (16-20 count)
Block feta cheese - melts better than pre-crumbled
Fresh lime - brightens the dish
Half-and-half - creates silky sauce
Chili powder and smoked paprika - adds depth
Detailed Instructions
Shrimp PreparationSeason with chili powder and salt
Cook in olive oil until pink
Remove and set aside
Don't overcrowd pan
Sauce DevelopmentSauté onions in butter until soft
Add garlic and corn
Create sauce with half-and-half
Melt in crumbled feta
Finish with fresh lime juice
Final AssemblyReturn shrimp to pan
Add remaining corn
Garnish with cilantro and lime
Adjust seasonings to taste
Temperature ControlKeep sauce at gentle simmer
Don't overheat feta
Serve immediately while hot
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate up to 4 days
Don't freeze - cream sauce separates
Reheat gently with added cream
Store components separately if possible
Variations
Use frozen corn in off-season
Substitute heavy cream for richer sauce
Add jalapeños for extra heat
Try goat cheese instead of feta
Serving Suggestions
Over rice or cauliflower rice
With grilled vegetables
Alongside crusty bread
In corn tortillas
Troubleshooting
Sauce too thick: Add cream gradually
Sauce too thin: Simmer longer
Shrimp tough: Reduce cooking time
Feta not melting: Use room temperature cheese
Additional Pro Techniques
Make-Ahead Tips:
Prep corn and aromatics early
Make sauce base ahead
Clean shrimp day-of
Store components separately
Temperature Management:
Room temp feta melts better
Keep sauce warm but not boiling
Heat bowls for serving
Add cold garnishes last
Scaling for Groups:
Cook shrimp in batches
Make extra sauce
Warm components separately
Garnish individual portions
Advanced Plating:
Layer components strategically
Create height with shrimp
Add sauce around edges
Garnish with microgreens
Flavor Enhancements:
Toast spices first
Add corn stock to sauce
Finish with compound butter
Layer fresh herbs throughout
Final Tips:
Use largest shrimp available
Season at every step
Balance heat carefully
Taste and adjust before serving
Remember: Success lies in timing each component and maintaining proper temperatures throughout preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen corn?
- Yes, though fresh or grilled corn adds the best flavor during summer months.
- → What can I substitute for feta?
- Cotija cheese works well, or try crumbled goat cheese for a different tang.
- → Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
- Fresh raw shrimp is best, but if using pre-cooked, add at the very end just to warm through.
- → What to serve with this?
- Crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad makes it a complete meal.
- → Can I make it less spicy?
- Reduce or omit the chili powder and use regular paprika instead of smoked.