Shrimp Mozzarella
Shrimp Mozzarella is a delightful dish that combines the sweet, succulent flavors of shrimp with the creamy, melty goodness of mozzarella cheese.
This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create an elegant meal that’s both comforting and impressive. The dish is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, where seafood is often paired with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and cheese.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, Shrimp Mozzarella is sure to please. Serve it as a main course with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy the rich flavors and textures in every bite!
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 (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
For the Mozzarella Topping:
- 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
For Serving:
- Crusty bread or cooked pasta
- Additional fresh basil leaves for garnish
How to Make Shrimp Mozzarella:
Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, black pepper, lemon juice, dried oregano, and dried basil. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly and let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cook the Shrimp:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from heat.
Add the Mozzarella Topping:
Evenly distribute the halved cherry tomatoes over the cooked shrimp in the skillet. Then, layer the sliced fresh mozzarella cheese on top of the shrimp and tomatoes. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything for added flavor.
Bake the Dish:
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese doesn’t brown too much. If you like a golden finish, you can broil the dish for an additional 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, remove the skillet and let it cool slightly. Before serving, garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve the Shrimp Mozzarella hot, alongside crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of cooked pasta.
Chef’s Note: Shrimp Mozzarella is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, which can be sautéed along with the shrimp. For a more pronounced flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet while cooking the shrimp.
If you can find it, use high-quality fresh mozzarella, as it melts beautifully and adds a rich creaminess to the dish. Alternatively, you can use shredded mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand.
This dish is perfect for entertaining since it can be prepared in advance. You can marinate the shrimp a few hours ahead and assemble the dish just before baking. It also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.
If you prefer a lower-carb option, serve the Shrimp Mozzarella over zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or bread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Vitamin A: 15% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 25% of DV
- Calcium: 30% of DV
- Iron: 10% of DV
Shrimp Mozzarella is not only a delicious meal but also a nutritious choice. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Fresh tomatoes add a dose of antioxidants, while mozzarella provides calcium and a creamy texture.
This dish beautifully exemplifies the Mediterranean way of cooking—using fresh, wholesome ingredients to create something truly special. Whether enjoyed as a family meal or served at a gathering, Shrimp Mozzarella is sure to impress and satisfy.
As you savor this delightful dish, take a moment to appreciate the balance of flavors and the simplicity of preparation. Enjoy the comforting warmth of the melted cheese paired with the vibrant tastes of shrimp and tomatoes.
With every bite, you’ll be transported to the sunny shores of Italy, making Shrimp Mozzarella a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire!
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