Creamy Garlic Tuscan Shrimp

Creamy Garlic Tuscan Shrimp is a luxurious and flavorful dish that captures the essence of the Tuscan region in Italy. This recipe brings together succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a rich creamy garlic sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Ingredients and Benefits:

1. Shrimp: As the star of the dish, shrimp brings a sweet and delicate flavor. It is also an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals.
2. Garlic: The backbone of the dish, garlic adds a robust and aromatic element. It is not only known for its flavor but also for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These tomatoes, intensified in flavor through the drying process, provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy sauce. They are also rich in antioxidants.
4. Spinach: Adding a touch of freshness, spinach contributes vitamins and minerals to the dish. It wilts into the sauce, imparting a vibrant green color.
5. Cream: The creaminess of the dish is achieved through the addition of heavy cream. While it enhances the texture, it also contributes to the rich and indulgent flavor.
6. Parmesan Cheese: This ingredient adds a nutty and savory note to the sauce, enhancing its depth of flavor. Parmesan cheese is also a good source of calcium.
7. Italian Seasonings: A blend of dried Italian herbs such as oregano and thyme adds complexity to the dish, infusing it with Mediterranean flavors.
8. Chicken Broth: Serving as the base of the sauce, chicken broth adds depth and umami. Opt for low-sodium broth for better control over salt content.

Cooking Method:

Creating Creamy Garlic Tuscan Shrimp involves a careful balance of sautéing, simmering, and combining flavors. The shrimp is quickly seared to perfection, then set aside while the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes infuse the pan with their aromatic essence. The sauce is then crafted by introducing cream, Parmesan, and seasonings. Spinach is added to wilt into the sauce, and the shrimp is reintroduced to finish cooking, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Health Benefits:

While this dish is indulgent, it also provides a good dose of nutrients. Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein seafood option. Spinach offers vitamins and minerals, and garlic has various health benefits. The use of heavy cream and Parmesan adds richness but can be moderated for those aiming for a lighter version.

Creamy Garlic Tuscan Shrimp

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Recipe by admin

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Creamy Garlic Tuscan Shrimp is an elegant dish that combines succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a luscious creamy garlic sauce. The flavors are reminiscent of the Tuscan region, creating a delightful and satisfying meal. With a preparation time that fits into busy schedules, this dish is perfect for those seeking a gourmet experience at home.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Prepare Shrimp:
  Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
  Season with salt and black pepper.
• Sear Shrimp:
  In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
• Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
  In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
• Prepare Creamy Sauce:
  Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Stir well.
  Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Wilt Spinach:
  Add fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt into the sauce.
• Return Shrimp:
  Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
• Adjust Seasoning:
  Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
• Garnish and Serve:
  Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  Serve the Creamy Garlic Tuscan Shrimp over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Notes

• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less chicken broth.
• Customize the dish by adding additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or artichoke hearts.
• For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at its best texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.