Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Introduction

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, tangy tomato sauce infused with the perfect balance of garlic, herbs, and spices. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, and ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a special meal for guests, or a festive dish for a holiday gathering. The shrimp soak up the delicious, garlicky sauce, and the whole dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for those who want something quick yet impressive.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family gatherings
• Special occasions
• Seafood lovers
• Halal-friendly meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce will quickly become your go-to seafood dish:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and a touch of spice gives this dish a bold and savory flavor that perfectly complements the tender shrimp.
• Healthy and Low-Calorie: This dish is low in calories, full of lean protein, and rich in vitamins from the tomatoes and herbs, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe is made without any pork, bacon, or alcohol, ensuring it’s suitable for those following halal dietary restrictions.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili flakes, or even adding a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste (optional, for a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for a zesty finish)
• 1 tablespoon capers or olives (optional, for an extra burst of flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Shrimp: The star of this dish, shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the tomato sauce beautifully, making them tender and juicy.
• Garlic: Garlic adds a savory depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and tomatoes. The more garlic, the better!
• Tomatoes: Whether using canned or fresh, tomatoes are the base of this dish, bringing a juicy, tangy flavor to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil provides the perfect medium for sautéing the garlic and shrimp, adding richness without overpowering the flavors.
• Herbs and Spices: Oregano, red chili flakes, and parsley offer a blend of earthiness, heat, and freshness that takes this dish to the next level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce:

Prepare the Shrimp and Sauce Base:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for an elegant presentation, if desired. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté Garlic: Add the finely chopped or minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden, but not burnt. If you’re adding onions, sauté them with the garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Tomato Sauce:

4. Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes if using) along with the tomato paste, if desired. Stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors can meld together. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up.
5. Season the Sauce: Add the oregano, red chili flakes (for heat), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you’re adding capers or olives, stir them in at this point for an extra flavor boost.

Cook the Shrimp:

6. Add the Shrimp to the Sauce: Once the tomato sauce has thickened and developed flavor, gently add the shrimp to the pan. Stir to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
7. Cook the Shrimp: Let the shrimp cook in the sauce for 3-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.

Finishing Touches:

8. Add Lemon Juice and Garnish: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the pan from heat. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a touch of brightness, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color.
9. Serve: Serve the garlic shrimp in tomato sauce immediately, either on its own or with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments:

• With Rice: Serve the shrimp and sauce over a bed of steamed white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, making each bite even better.
• With Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp over pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or penne. The tomato sauce will coat the noodles perfectly.
• With Bread: Garlic bread or a simple baguette is ideal for mopping up the savory tomato sauce.
• With Salad: A crisp green salad with lemon dressing or a Greek salad with feta cheese makes a light, refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp and sauce.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp in small bowls or on skewers as a delicious appetizer for a dinner party or special occasion.

Additional Tips for Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Here are some tips to make your Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce even better:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly—overcooking can make them rubbery. Watch for them to turn pink and opaque, and then remove them from heat immediately.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, so try to avoid pre-minced garlic in jars, which can be less aromatic.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red chili flakes. Alternatively, for extra spice, you can add a sliced fresh chili along with the garlic.
• Add Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or thyme, these herbs can be a wonderful addition to the sauce. Add them toward the end of cooking for the best flavor.
• Experiment with Vegetables: You can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Substitute Shrimp: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute with other seafood such as scallops or white fish. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.

Recipe Variations of Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Here are some variations of Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce that you can try:

• Shrimp with Spinach and Feta: Add fresh spinach to the sauce and crumble feta cheese over the top for a Mediterranean twist.
• Shrimp in Coconut Tomato Sauce: Stir in coconut milk for a creamy, rich version of this dish.
• Shrimp with Bell Peppers: Add sautéed bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and color.
• Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb version, serve the shrimp in tomato sauce over zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of pasta or rice.
• Shrimp and Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tomato sauce.

Freezing and Storage for Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the shrimp and tomato sauce to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a pan over low heat.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the

stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Special Equipment for Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Here are a few items you may need to make Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A wide, deep pan is perfect for sautéing the garlic and shrimp and allows the sauce to reduce evenly.
• Garlic Press or Minced Garlic: Using a garlic press makes mincing garlic quick and easy, but finely chopping it with a knife also works well.
• Cutting Board and Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping garlic, onion, tomatoes, and any other veggies or herbs you want to add.
• Tongs or a Slotted Spoon: Tongs are useful for turning the shrimp in the pan without breaking them, while a slotted spoon helps you remove them from the sauce if desired.

FAQ Section about Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess water before cooking.
2. Can I make this dish without garlic?
   Garlic is a key flavor in this recipe, but if you’re allergic or don’t like it, you can skip it and use other herbs like onion powder or leek for flavor.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes—just chop them finely and cook them down a little longer to create a sauce.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid serving it with pasta that contains gluten.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini would work great in this dish. Add them in with the tomatoes to cook down.

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Conclusion of Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish that combines the delicate taste of shrimp with a savory, garlicky tomato sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or enjoying a comforting meal at home. The dish is customizable, halal-friendly, and can be paired with various sides to suit your tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious, aromatic flavors that are sure to impress!