Experience bold flavors with this garlic sauce shrimp recipe. A perfect balance of garlic, spices, and juicy shrimp, this dish is a delightful treat for seafood lovers. It's a quick and simple recipe that's sure to impress at any dinner party or weeknight meal.
You'll need large shrimp for this recipe, which can be found in the seafood section of most supermarkets. The recipe calls for dry sherry, a type of fortified wine, which can be located in the wine or liquor aisle. If you can't find it, a good substitute is white wine or chicken broth. Another ingredient is the bay leaf, a common spice used for flavoring. It can be found in the spice aisle.
Garlic Sauce Shrimp Recipe Ingredients
Olive oil: An essential in many cuisines, a good quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor of the shrimp.
Garlic: Gives a powerful flavor punch to the shrimp and acts as the base of the sauce.
Bay leaf: Aromatic leaf, adds depth to the sauce.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick. Adjust to your preference.
Shrimp: Choose large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors. Sea salt is a good option.
Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives a spicy, aromatic touch.
Dry sherry: Adds a unique, sweet and nutty flavor to the sauce. Substitutable with white wine or chicken broth.
Lemon juice: Gives the sauce a tangy twist.
Parsley: Fresh herbs bestow a refreshing touch in the end.
One reader, Kalina Moya says:
This garlic sauce shrimp recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible and the shrimp turns out perfectly tender. The combination of garlic, lemon, and sherry creates a delightful taste that's simply irresistible. It's a must-try for seafood lovers!
Essential Techniques for Preparing Garlic Sauce Shrimp
How to prepare the garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
How to cook the shrimp: Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
How to incorporate the sherry, lemon juice, and parsley: Stir in the sherry, lemon juice, and parsley until well combined with the shrimp and garlic sauce.
How To Make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Impress your guests with these deliciously tender Shrimp in Garlic Sauce dish that offers a notable garlicky and savory taste that everyone raves about.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupolive oil
- 4clovesgarlic
- 1bay leaf
- ¼tspred pepper flakes,dried
- 2lbslarge shrimp
- 1¼tspsalt
- ¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- 3tbspdry sherry
- 2tbsplemon juice
- 3tbspfresh parsley,chopped
Instructions
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In a large frying pan, heat the oil over moderate heat.
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Add the garlic, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Add the shrimp, salt, and black pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
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Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes until the shrimp are just done.
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Stir in the sherry, lemon juice, and parsley.
Recipe Notes
- Deveining Shrimp: Dark shrimp veins are usually removed for aesthetic purposes and it’s not essential to take them out, especially if pressed for time.
- Fish Alternatives: Squid would be delicious with the garlic sauce. Cook it quickly (for about 2 minutes), or it will become tough and rubbery. Sea scallops are another alternative. Cook them for about 2 minutes per side, without stirring, so they brown nicely.
- Wine Recommendation: Bold Mediterranean flavors welcome an easygoing wine such as a dry rosé from Spain or the south of France. If wine with a bit more sweetness is preferred, try a white zinfandel from California
Nutrition
- Calories: 663.45kcal
- Fat: 56.37g
- Saturated Fat: 8.06g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 39.82g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.37g
- Carbohydrates: 5.32g
- Fiber: 0.28g
- Sugar: 0.39g
- Protein: 31.23g
- Cholesterol: 285.76mg
- Sodium: 1288.04mg
- Calcium: 135.79mg
- Potassium: 306.77mg
- Iron: 1.12mg
- Vitamin A: 135.62µg
- Vitamin C: 7.76mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Garlic Sauce Shrimp
When cooking the shrimp, it's important to not overcook them as they can become tough and lose their succulent flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 4 to 5 minutes, and you'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. Also, adding the garlic early in the process allows it to infuse the olive oil with its flavor, creating a more robust and flavorful sauce.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Shrimp Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients before starting the cooking process to streamline the preparation.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.
Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to expedite the prep work.
Batch cooking: Make larger portions and freeze the extra for quick and convenient future meals.
Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils while cooking.
Quick marinating: Use a vacuum sealer to marinate meats and vegetables in minutes instead of hours.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp in Garlic Sauce Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can add a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor to the dish, making it a good substitute for bay leaf.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide the same level of heat and spiciness as red pepper flakes in the recipe.
shrimp - Substitute with prawns: Prawns are a suitable substitute for shrimp, offering a similar taste and texture in the dish.
dry sherry - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide the acidity and flavor complexity that dry sherry adds to the dish.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide the acidity and tanginess that lemon juice adds to the recipe.
fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh and vibrant herb flavor similar to fresh parsley in the dish.
Plating Ideas for Garlic Sauce Shrimp
Elevate the shrimp: Arrange the cooked shrimp in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Drizzle with garlic sauce: Use a spoon to carefully drizzle the flavorful garlic sauce over the arranged shrimp, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp, adding a pop of vibrant green color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Add a touch of acidity: Squeeze a few drops of fresh lemon juice around the edge of the plate to add a subtle hint of acidity to complement the flavors of the dish.
Incorporate artistic flair: Consider using a fine mesh sieve to lightly dust the plate with a pinch of red pepper flakes, adding a visually striking element to the presentation.
Serve on elegant dinnerware: Choose sophisticated, minimalist dinnerware to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish, allowing the shrimp to take center stage.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shrimp with Garlic Sauce
- Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
- Garlic press: A tool used to crush garlic cloves, extracting the pulp and juice.
- Cutting board: A durable board used to protect countertops when cutting or chopping ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp utensil used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure and portion ingredients for recipes.
- Lemon squeezer: A handheld tool used to extract juice from lemons.
- Cooking spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
- Grater: A tool used to grate or shred ingredients such as cheese, garlic, or citrus zest.
- Tongs: A versatile kitchen tool used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate foods.
- Citrus juicer: A tool designed to extract juice from citrus fruits such as lemons or limes.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Garlic Sauce Shrimp
Let the shrimp cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy and help maintain its texture.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled garlic sauce shrimp to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp:
- Place the cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Frozen garlic sauce shrimp will keep well for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator.
- Place the thawed shrimp in a skillet over medium heat.
- Stir gently until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Be careful not to overcook, as the shrimp may become tough and rubbery.
If you have leftover sauce, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat the sauce gently in a skillet before serving.
- Adjust the seasoning with extra lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed.
The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Garlic Sauce Shrimp
Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent overcooking. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the shrimp while ensuring even heating.
For a quick and easy reheating option, microwave the leftover garlic sauce shrimp in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the shrimp to become rubbery.
If you have leftover sauce and want to infuse more flavor into the shrimp, heat the sauce in a pan over medium heat until simmering. Add the shrimp and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. This method allows the shrimp to absorb more of the delicious garlic sauce flavors.
For a crispy texture, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the leftover shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and reheat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method works well if you prefer a firmer texture to your reheated shrimp.
If you have leftover shrimp and sauce separately, you can combine them in a foil packet and reheat on the grill or in the oven. This method helps to lock in the moisture and flavors while reheating, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish.
Interesting Trivia About Garlic Sauce Shrimp
Garlic sauce shrimp is a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine. It is believed that the consumption of shrimp can provide essential nutrients such as iodine, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are beneficial for heart health and can help in reducing the risk of stroke. Shrimp is also a good source of vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function. Additionally, the garlic in the sauce contains allicin, a compound known for its potential health benefits, including lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Budget-Friendly: Making Garlic Sauce Shrimp at Home
The cost-effectiveness of this garlic sauce shrimp recipe is quite high. Shrimp is the priciest ingredient, but the dish serves 4, making it reasonable. Olive oil and garlic are pantry staples, and the remaining ingredients are affordable. The total cost is approximately $25, making it a budget-friendly option. The dish's versatility and rich flavors make it a solid 9/10.
Is This Shrimp Recipe Healthy or Not?
The garlic sauce shrimp recipe is a delicious dish, but it does have some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The main concerns are:
- High in fat: The recipe calls for a full cup of olive oil, which is a significant amount of fat, even though it's a healthier type of fat.
- High in sodium: With 1¼ tsp of salt for 2 lbs of shrimp, the dish may be too salty for those watching their sodium intake.
- Lacks vegetables: The recipe doesn't include any vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal.
However, the recipe also has some positive aspects:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source and provides essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium.
- Garlic and parsley offer some health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used, or substitute some of it with a lower-fat alternative like chicken or vegetable broth.
- Adjust the salt content according to your taste and dietary needs. You can always add more salt at the table if needed.
- Incorporate vegetables into the dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. These will add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal.
- Serve the shrimp over a bed of whole grain rice, quinoa, or zucchini noodles to make it a more balanced and filling meal.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for more potent health benefits and flavor.
Our Editor's Opinion on This Garlic Sauce Shrimp Recipe
This garlic sauce shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The use of olive oil, garlic, and sherry creates a rich and aromatic base for the succulent shrimp. The addition of lemon juice and fresh parsley adds a bright and refreshing finish. The dish is well-balanced and offers a satisfying blend of savory and citrusy notes. It's a versatile recipe that can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. Overall, it's a fantastic dish that is sure to impress your guests with its bold and vibrant flavors.
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Why trust this Shrimp in Garlic Sauce Recipe:
This garlic sauce shrimp recipe is a trusty choice for seafood lovers. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and shrimp creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of dry sherry and lemon juice adds depth and brightness to the dish. With carefully selected ingredients and precise cooking instructions, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful dining experience. Trust the expertise behind this recipe and savor the exquisite flavors of this garlic sauce shrimp dish.
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