Ribeye Steak Cajun Shrimp

1. Prep the Steaks: Allow the steaks to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Cook: Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Add garlic and thyme (or rosemary) to the pan in the last 2 minutes of cooking, basting the steaks with the flavored oil.
3. Rest: Let the steaks rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Cajun Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Season: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Cook: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
2. Mash: Add milk and butter to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Stir in sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix: Fold in the remaining cheese, bacon, and green onions, reserving some for garnish.

Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Roast: Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and slightly browned.
3. Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the hot broccoli before serving.

Serving the Meal

Arrange the beautifully cooked ribeye steak and Cajun shrimp on a plate, accompanied by a generous serving of the loaded mashed potatoes and a side of the garlic Parmesan broccoli. This meal combines a variety of textures and flavors, from the spiciness of the shrimp and the richness of the steak to the creamy comfort of the potatoes and the roasted depth of the broccoli.

This culinary experience is perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated dinner at home, offering a feast that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Enjoy your cooking and the wonderful meal!