Shrimp Boil

Martha prepares an easy Louisiana-style shrimp boil.

Country-Style Dinner Party Table Setting Tips

Serve your country-style dinner as a buffet so you'll have time to spend with guests.

- Skip the tablecloth; newspaper is simple and makes clean up easy.

- Pile seafood high and separately on large enamel platters.

- Use bandannas for napkins.

- Add a distinctive touch; serve beverages in mason jars.

- Keep it traditional; ladle iced tea from a wide-mouth jar.

- Don't save the best for last. Display your dessert on the table, and give guests something to look forward to.

- Spice up your meal, and put a dash of color on your table.

- Serve a shrimp boil.

Fill a 20-quart pot three-quarters full with cold water; add spice mix, thyme, chili pepper flakes, lemon, and onions. Bring water to a rapid boil over high heat.
Using tongs, carefully add shrimp to pot, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are opaque and shells are pink, about 7 to 10 minutes. Remove shrimp using a slotted spoon or strainer. Serve hot.