Mediterranean Shrimp
Mediterranean cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and health benefits. A Mediterranean Shrimp dish captures all of these elements beautifully, creating a delightful meal that is not only delicious but also quick to prepare.
The combination of succulent shrimp with classic Mediterranean ingredients such as olives, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a dish that is bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party.
Serve it over a bed of fluffy couscous, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that transports you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable Mediterranean Shrimp dish!
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Mediterranean Sauce:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
For Serving:
- Cooked couscous, quinoa, or pasta
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Mediterranean Shrimp:
Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly in the pan. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Drizzle with lemon juice and set aside to marinate while you prepare the sauce.
Make the Mediterranean Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, dried oregano, dried basil, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Cook the Shrimp:
Once the sauce has simmered, add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring gently, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Combine and Serve:
Once the shrimp are cooked through, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a little more acidity, squeeze in some additional lemon juice.
Serve the Mediterranean Shrimp over a bed of cooked couscous, quinoa, or pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and basil leaves, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Chef’s Note: Mediterranean Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be customized based on your preferences. Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. If you enjoy seafood, consider incorporating scallops or mussels for a mixed seafood dish.
For a heartier meal, you can mix in some chickpeas or white beans, which will also boost the protein and fiber content. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, serve it over rice or enjoy it as is!
Make sure to use high-quality olive oil, as it greatly enhances the flavor of the dish. Fresh herbs will provide a bright finish, but if you only have dried herbs on hand, they will work as well—just use about a third of the amount called for fresh.
This dish is perfect for meal prep; simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Vitamin A: 20% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 25% of DV
- Calcium: 8% of DV
- Iron: 15% of DV
Mediterranean Shrimp not only delights the palate but also offers a wealth of health benefits. Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein, while tomatoes and olives provide antioxidants and heart-healthy fats.
The combination of herbs and spices adds flavor without excessive calories or sodium, making this dish a smart choice for those looking to eat healthier.
As you savor this Mediterranean Shrimp dish, appreciate the harmony of flavors and textures that represent the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
This meal is a true celebration of fresh ingredients, and it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your dinner rotation. Enjoy the delightful taste of the Mediterranean right in your own kitchen!
Thanks for visiting Shrimps Recipes