Imagine a dish that transports you to the sun-drenched coastlines of Italy with just one bite - a culinary masterpiece that combines succulent shrimp, tender zucchini, and a vibrant red pepper sauce that will make your taste buds dance! This quick and easy recipe is not just a meal, it's a flavor adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate food lover, this Shrimp Zucchini in Red Pepper Sauce promises to elevate your weeknight dinner from mundane to magnificent.
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 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by peeling and deveining the shrimp, ensuring they are cleaned thoroughly. Slice zucchinis into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is wide enough to accommodate all ingredients without overcrowding.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add chopped red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened, stirring occasionally.
- Introduce sliced zucchini to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until zucchini begins to soften but remains slightly crisp.
- Push vegetables to one side of the skillet and add shrimp to the empty space. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and become opaque.
- Pour tomato sauce over the shrimp and vegetables, gently stirring to combine all ingredients. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Ensure shrimp are fully cooked but not overdone.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 1-2 minutes. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Tips
- Shrimp Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp and ensure they are completely peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor.
- Prevent Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly - watch for the pink color and slight curl, which indicates they're perfectly done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough.
- Uniform Vegetable Cutting: Slice zucchini evenly to ensure consistent cooking and an attractive presentation.
- High Heat, Quick Cooking: Use medium-high heat to achieve a slight caramelization on vegetables and a perfect sear on shrimp.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages, tasting as you go to build layers of flavor without over-salting.
- Fresh Herb Finish: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving can elevate the dish's aroma and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg
