Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

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Introduction

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that combines succulent shrimp, fragrant garlic, and a luscious, tangy tomato sauce. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this dish is rich, savory, and brimming with bold, fresh ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for a special occasion. Whether served over a bed of pasta, alongside fluffy rice, or with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of Italy or Spain.

The first time I made this dish, I was amazed by how easy it was to create something so flavorful with just a few ingredients. Sautéing the garlic in olive oil and then letting it mingle with the tomatoes and shrimp filled my kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. As the sauce simmered, the flavors melded together perfectly, and the shrimp became tender and juicy. The final dish was an explosion of Mediterranean goodness that had everyone asking for seconds.

What I love most about Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with pasta, creating a hearty meal, or can be served with rice or bread for a lighter yet satisfying dish. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or fresh basil for extra freshness. No matter how you serve it, this dish brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your home and is guaranteed to become a favorite at any table.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Date nights
  • Seafood lovers
  • Pasta lovers
  • Mediterranean-inspired meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce will become your new favorite dish:

  • Savory Tomato Sauce: The tomato sauce is rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and savory garlic.
  • Tender Shrimp: The shrimp are cooked to perfection, absorbing the delicious flavors of the sauce while remaining juicy and tender.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a perfect option for a busy weeknight meal.
  • Customizable: The sauce can be adjusted to your liking with herbs, spices, or a little extra heat.
  • Versatile: Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp are ideal for this dish. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and depth to the sauce while sautéing the garlic and onions.
  • Crushed Tomatoes: These form the base of the sauce, giving it a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
  • Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that infuse the sauce with flavor.
  • Herbs and Spices: Oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes add complexity and warmth to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:

  1. Peel and Devein Shrimp: If not already done, peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on or off, depending on your preference.
  2. Season Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Garlic and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  2. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, white wine (if using), dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together.
  3. Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Cook the Shrimp:

  1. Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
  2. Finish with Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sauce to brighten the flavors.

Garnish and Serve:

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving.
  2. Serve: Serve the garlic shrimp in tomato sauce over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

How to Serve

  • Over Pasta: Serve the shrimp and tomato sauce over spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta for a hearty meal.
  • With Rice: Pair with white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
  • With Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread to dip into the sauce.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve in small bowls as a seafood appetizer, perfect for sharing with friends.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a light green salad for a balanced and fresh meal.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well for this dish. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
  • Add Extra Heat: If you like spicy dishes, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
  • Use a Dry White Wine: The wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can omit it if preferred. Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
  • Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh basil and parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add extra red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for more heat.
  2. Shrimp Scampi Style: Add butter and a bit of white wine to the sauce for a richer, buttery flavor.
  3. Vegetable Add-ins: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for extra vegetables.
  4. Creamy Tomato Shrimp: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the tomato sauce for a creamy variation.
  5. Lemon Butter Shrimp: Add more lemon juice and a bit of butter for a fresh, citrusy twist.
  6. Herb-Infused Shrimp: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary in the sauce for a more aromatic dish.
  7. Mediterranean Shrimp: Add Kalamata olives, capers, or feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
  8. Garlic Butter Shrimp: For a richer version, toss the shrimp in garlic butter before adding them to the sauce.
  9. Tomato Basil Shrimp: Add extra fresh basil and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
  10. Coconut Shrimp in Tomato Sauce: Add a touch of coconut milk to the tomato sauce for a creamy, tropical variation.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Pan
  • Meat Thermometer (optional, for checking shrimp doneness)
  • Wooden Spoon or Tongs
  • Zester (for lemon zest, if desired)

FAQ

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
    Yes, frozen shrimp work just as well—just make sure they are thoroughly thawed before cooking.
  2. Can I use a different type of seafood?
    Yes, scallops, white fish, or mussels can be substituted for shrimp in this recipe.
  3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the shrimp just before serving.
  4. Can I make this dish without wine?
    Yes, you can simply omit the wine and add a bit more broth or water to create a flavorful sauce.
  5. How do I know when shrimp are done?
    Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a “C” shape, not be straight.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s sure to impress at any meal. The savory, garlic-infused tomato sauce pairs perfectly with tender, succulent shrimp, and the bright lemon finish adds a refreshing touch. Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread, this dish is a delightful combination of flavors that will satisfy every appetite.

Simple to prepare yet full of flavor, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The richness of the tomato sauce complements the sweetness of the shrimp, making it a meal you’ll want to come back to again and again.

I can’t wait to see your Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you put your own spin on this dish. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

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