Transport yourself to the sun-drenched shores of Southern Italy with this vibrant and flavorful garlic shrimp recipe. Forget bland shrimp scampi – this dish explodes with the authentic taste of the Mediterranean, a symphony of garlic, bright lemon, and perfectly cooked shrimp. Imagine succulent shrimp, glistening with olive oil and infused with the aromatic punch of fresh garlic, served with crusty bread for sopping up every last drop of delicious sauce. It's a dish that’s both incredibly simple and surprisingly sophisticated, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This Southern Italian-style garlic shrimp recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple techniques ensures a restaurant-quality result achievable in your own kitchen. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and bring the taste of Southern Italy to your table.
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Pan
Ingredients
- Shrimp
- Garlic Powder
- Sweet Paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
- Bay Leaves
- Neutral Oil
- Butter
- White Onion
- Garlic
- Sun-Dried Peppers
- Calabrian Chilies
- Capers
- Dry White Wine
- Fresh Thyme
- Lemon Juice
- Fresh Parsley
- Dry Oregano
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate the Shrimp
- In a mixing bowl, add shrimp, garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, pepper, and let marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes.
Step 2. Sauté Shrimp and Build the Sauce
- Grab a pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of neutral oil. When shimmering, place shrimp down and cook one side for 2 minutes.
- Turn shrimp over and cook the other side for 45 seconds. Remove shrimp from pan and lower heat to medium.
- Add butter. Once melted, add diced white onion and cook until translucent.
- Add sliced garlic and cook low and slow until fragrant.
- Add diced sun-dried peppers, Calabrian chilies, and capers.
- Add dry white wine, fresh thyme, fresh lemon juice, and cook down the sauce.
Step 3. Combine and Finish the Dish
- Add fresh chopped parsley.
- Add shrimp back and all drippings. Coat shrimp in the sauce.
- Add dry oregano. Cook shrimp for another 30-45 seconds.
Read more: Sautéed White Beans with Garlic, Sage & Tomatoes: Easy Side Dish Recipe
Tips
- All ingredient amounts will be listed in the description.
- Serve on its own, over pasta, or creamy polenta.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 5-10g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent them from becoming watery.
2. What kind of olive oil should I use?
Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It's the star of the dish!
3. What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping, pasta, or a simple green salad.
This Southern Italian Garlic Shrimp recipe is a testament to the magic of simple, fresh ingredients. Enjoy the bright flavors and the ease of preparation; it’s a dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite. Buon appetito!