Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Recipe
Creamy Tuscan shrimp pairs perfectly with garlic bread—crunchy, buttery, and garlicky, ideal for soaking up the luscious sauce. Light pasta like angel hair or fettuccine offers a comforting, classic base that embraces the dish.
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound shrimp 31-40 count, peeled and thawed
- 4-5 garlic cloves finely minced
- 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped or julienned
- 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
- 1-2 cups tightly packed fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- A handful of fresh basil thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps them sear rather than steam when cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, sprinkle the flour over the remaining butter and garlic. Whisk continuously for a minute to get rid of any lumps. Then, add in the heavy cream while still whisking. This will help create a smooth sauce.
Step 5: Add Flavorful Ingredients
- Once the sauce begins to thicken, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and dried Italian herb blend. Simmer for about 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Incorporate Spinach and Shrimp
- Gradually stir in the baby spinach, allowing it to wilt in the sauce. Then, return the shrimp to the skillet. Guys, now it gets exciting—the shrimp can soak up all that delicious flavor!
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Basil and Lemon Juice
- Before serving, add freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness and top with sliced basil. This adds a fresh aroma and taste to the dish.
Notes
- Use Fresh Shrimp: If possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen. It enhances the dish's flavor and texture.
- Don't Rush the Sauce: Letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Customize with Add-ons: Feel free to add mushrooms or asparagus for extra vegetables.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so try to serve it right after it's prepared.
Nutrition
Serving: 275gCalories: 395kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 37gFat: 25.1gSaturated Fat: 12.6gCholesterol: 371mgSodium: 1288mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g
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