Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet Italian paradise! This Classic Shrimp and Tomatoes recipe is not just a meal – it's a quick, elegant escape to the sun-drenched coastlines of Italy, packed with vibrant flavors and ready in just 25 minutes. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate food lover, this dish promises to deliver restaurant-quality excitement right in your own kitchen, with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the shrimp thoroughly, halving the cherry tomatoes, and finely mincing the garlic cloves.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they will sear properly and not release excess moisture during cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and becomes fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté quickly for 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic, which can create a bitter taste.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper caramelization.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop a light golden color.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their natural juices.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish rest for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, just before serving to enhance the dish's aromatic profile.
- Serve immediately, ideally with crusty bread or over pasta to absorb the delicious pan juices.
Tips
- Dry Your Shrimp: Always pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to achieve a beautiful golden sear and prevent steaming.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure proper caramelization and prevent soggy results.
- Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic quickly and at the right temperature to avoid burning, which can make the dish bitter.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil leaves right before serving to maximize their aromatic impact.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan, to preserve the shrimp's tender texture and the tomatoes' vibrant flavor.
- Bonus Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread, serve over pasta, or enjoy with a crisp white wine for a complete dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg
