Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp is a popular choice for those who want to enjoy high-quality seafood at home without the premium price tag. These wild-caught shrimp, known for their sweet, lobster-like flavor, are a versatile and delicious option for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re grilling, sautéing, or incorporating them into your favorite recipes, these shrimp deliver a gourmet experience that’s easy to prepare.
What are Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp?
Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp are wild-caught from the icy waters off the coast of Argentina. They are known for their bright red color even when raw, a characteristic that sets them apart from other shrimp varieties. These shrimp are flash-frozen to preserve their freshness and flavor, and they come in a 16-ounce bag for around $11.99, making them an affordable luxury.
Taste and Texture
The taste of Argentinian Red Shrimp is often compared to lobster, with a sweet and slightly briny flavor that is more delicate than that of traditional shrimp. Their texture is tender yet firm, making them a versatile ingredient that holds up well in various cooking methods. When cooked, they turn a deeper red, making them visually appealing in dishes as well.
It is important to note despite them looking cooked, this product is raw, so plan accordingly. But when cooked perfectly, these are an awesome product overall. They are a good value overall as well as shrimp can be pricey.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
Ingredients:
- Primary Ingredients: Wild-caught Argentinian red shrimp, salt.
Nutritional Information (per 4-ounce serving):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 23g
These shrimp are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy choice for adding protein to your meals. However, they do contain a moderate amount of sodium, so keep that in mind if you’re watching your salt intake.
How to Prepare Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp
Preparing these shrimp is quick and easy, making them perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion:
- Thawing:
- Thaw the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a bowl of cold water for a faster thaw.
- Sautéed:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they are pink and opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Grilled:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Skewer the shrimp, leaving some space between each one.
- Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are cooked through.
- Oven-Baked:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 8-10 minutes until they are pink and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp can be used in a variety of dishes:
- Shrimp Scampi:
Sauté the shrimp with garlic, butter, and white wine, then toss with cooked linguine for a quick and flavorful pasta dish. I chose to use Ina Garten's Baked Shrimp Recipe and it came out like this: - Tacos:
Use the shrimp as a filling for tacos, paired with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema. - Salad Topper:
Add the cooked shrimp to a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy meal. - Shrimp Cocktail:
Serve the shrimp chilled with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges for a classic appetizer.
Pairing Suggestions
Beverage Pairings:
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay complements the sweet, delicate flavor of the shrimp.
- Beer: A light lager or a pale ale pairs well with the subtle sweetness of the seafood without overpowering it.
Food Pairings:
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Serve the shrimp over a bed of stir-fried vegetables for a quick and healthy dinner option.
FAQs About Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp
The following are common questions about this product:
Yes, these shrimp are wild-caught off the coast of Argentina
For the best quality, it’s recommended to consume the shrimp within 3-4 months of purchase if kept frozen.
Thaw the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a bowl of cold water for faster thawing.
These shrimp are considered a more sustainable seafood option due to their wild-caught nature from regulated fisheries.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp are a standout product for seafood lovers looking to enjoy a gourmet experience at home. With their lobster-like flavor, versatility in the kitchen, and affordable price point, these shrimp are perfect for both special occasions and quick weeknight dinners. Whether you’re grilling, sautéing, or baking, these shrimp are sure to impress. These are reasonably priced and taste as fresh as frozen seafood can get.
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Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp
Product Name: Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp
Product Description: Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp is an affordable and luxurious tasting frozen shrimp option.
Price: $10.99
Summary
Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp are prized for their lobster-like taste.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Lobster-Like Flavor: Offers a sweet, tender taste similar to lobster, making it a luxurious seafood option.
- Versatile: Can be used in a wide range of dishes, from pasta to tacos and salads.
- Healthy: Low in calories and fat, high in protein.
Cons
- Moderate Sodium Content: Contains a moderate amount of sodium, which may be a concern for those on a low-sodium diet.
- Occasional Strong Smell: Some customers have reported a strong seafood smell when cooking, though this can be managed by proper ventilation
RossC says
I've not seen this but, I don't look over the seafood section as often as I should... I will find and try these shrimp...
becomebetty says
Both this and the blue shrimp are solid choices.
EllenLV says
Brenda, based upon your recommendation, I bought these and loved them, but I did not like having to cook them. So, this time, I tried the cooked Jumbo Shrimp - they were terrible, the shrimp were all covered in ice crystals and there were big blobs of ice in the bag, they were mealy and terrible. Very disappointing.
becomebetty says
Hey Ellen! I havent tried the fully cooked shrimp yet. I noticed the same thing about them having "protective ice" on them. Thanks for sharing. On the flip side these do take less time to cook than regular shrimp. Glad I could help.
EllenLV says
Just a followup, I have been buying these regularly, there is a good YouTube video on how to cook shrimp - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsQAJqGJSek followed that and I have been very happy, I love them and thank you Brenda for introducing them to me.
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing Ellen!
Lynn says
Hi, I no longer buy these shrimp because, while I love the taste, after trying them on three different occasions I became violently ill. I’m not allergic to seafood so I thought it was something in the ingredients though the package claims shrimp and salt. Wondering if anyone else has had the same experience.
becomebetty says
I haven't had the same experience Lynn, but I would absolutely report that to the store you purchased it from and let them know. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experience.