Mediterranean Shrimp in Herbed Tomato Sauce
This Mediterranean Shrimp in Herbed Tomato Sauce is a rich, hearty, and flavor-forward meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean straight to your plate! Succulent shrimp are simmered in a aromatic tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, olives, and a hint of chili for a meal that’s both comforting and elegant — perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up all the wonderful sauce.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5oz/410g) can diced tomatoes
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred spice)
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Saute the base: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Add the tomato mixture: Pour in diced tomatoes, olives, and white wine (if using). Season with dried herbs, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Cook the shrimp: Season the shrimp with a little additional salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning once, until the shrimp are opaque and pink.
Serve: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley over the finished dish. Serve warm with rice, pasta, or a side of bread. Provide lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze of juice if preferred.
Tips:
Don’t overcook the shrimp:
Shrimp cook quickly — usually in 4–5 minutes — and can become tough if overcooked. Keep a close eye on them.
Adjust the spice:
If you prefer it milder, omit or reduce the red pepper flakes. If you want more kick, add a bit more.
Add depth of flavor:
Consider adding a small pinch of saffron, a dash of smoked paprika, or a few anchovy fillets for additional complexity.
Serve with your favorite side:
Pair this with spaghetti, orzo, quinoa, or even a thick slice of artisan bread to soak up the sauce.
Variations:
Mediterranean Seafood Mix:
Add other seafood, such as mussels, clams, or calamari, alongside the shrimp for a hearty seafood stew.
Add veggies:
Consider adding diced zucchini, artichokes, or diced bell peppers to make it a complete meal in a single skillet.
Make it creamy:
For a creamy variation, add 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream toward the last few minutes of cooking.
Swap the protein:
If you’re not a shrimp fan, substitute with chicken, scallops, or even firm tofu.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes — just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the skillet.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Is this meal low-calorie?
This is a light, healthy meal rich in lean protein and Mediterranean ingredients. Pairing it with whole grains or a side salad can keep calories and sodium in check.
Q: What wine pairs well with this meal?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a Pinot Grigio, or a light Rosé nicely complements the tomato and seafood flavors.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate; for 4 servings)
Calories: 250
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrate: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 220mg
Sodium: 720mg
Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes. Always check with a dietitian if you have health concerns or dietary restrictions.
Conclusion:
Mediterranean Shrimp in Herbed Tomato Sauce is a delicious, rich, and healthy meal that brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your plate. It’s a versatile recipe — perfect for busy nights, a romantic dinner, or a small gathering with friends. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine, a side salad, or a warm piece of bread for the ultimate dining experience. Bon appétit!