If you’re craving a dish that brings a burst of vibrant flavors with every bite, this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection with a rich, garlicky tomato sauce that is both comforting and exciting. Simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to share with friends, this recipe is a personal favorite that never fails to satisfy cravings and spark joy at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in layering flavor, texture, and color. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh herbs, you’ll create a dish that feels both fresh and indulgent.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, shrimp cook quickly and add a tender, juicy texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides richness and helps to sauté the shrimp and garlic evenly.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with pungent, aromatic depth—don’t skimp on it!
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped): Adds the vibrant base of tomato flavor and lovely acidity.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional): Adds complexity and a subtle tang that enhances the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a fragrant, earthy note perfectly suited to tomato dishes.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): Adds a gentle kick of heat to brighten the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky undertone that deepens the overall profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances and enhances every ingredient.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, green punch and visual appeal.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Provides sweet, herbal brightness to finish the dish.
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): A luscious, savory topping that melts wonderfully into the warm sauce.
- Pasta, rice, or crusty bread (for serving): Ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce and completing the meal.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the shrimp and let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn beautifully pink and opaque. This quick cooking locks in their juicy flavor. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside so they don’t overcook during later steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in your minced garlic and sauté gently for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step releases the garlic’s aromatic oils, forming the flavorful foundation of your tomato sauce but be mindful to keep the heat moderate so the garlic doesn’t burn, which would turn the sauce bitter.
Step 3: Build Your Tomato Sauce
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, plus the dry white wine if you’re using it. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. Sprinkle in the oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, as the sauce thickens and the flavors meld into a luscious, inviting base.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp with the Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently fold them into the tomato sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in the garlicky goodness. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the shrimp can soak up the flavors and heat through without becoming rubbery. This final step ties everything together into a harmonious dish.
Step 5: Garnish and Final Touches
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and basil over the dish. Their fresh, leafy notes brighten the rich sauce and add a gorgeous splash of color. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory finish that melts slightly into the warm sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe over a bed of al dente pasta, fluffy rice, or alongside crusty bread perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce. The combination of tender shrimp, tangy tomato, and garlic-infused sauce creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like parsley and basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant color that makes the dish look irresistible. A light sprinkling of Parmesan cheese adds a savory richness that perfectly complements the garlic and tomato.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like pasta or rice, which absorb the savory sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, serve it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal with some freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the shrimp and sauce in a rustic cast-iron skillet at the table, garnished with herbs and a drizzle of good olive oil. Alternatively, spoon the sauce over crusty baguette slices for a casual, tapas-style appetizer perfect for sharing with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days and maintain its delicious flavors, making it perfect for a quick meal the next day.
Freezing
While shrimp can become a bit rubbery if frozen and reheated, you can freeze the tomato sauce portion separately for up to 2 months. Freeze it in a sealed container or freezer bag to enjoy homemade tomato sauce on other dishes whenever you like.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat until they are just heated through to avoid toughening them. If reheating the sauce separately, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove until simmering. Combine and serve fresh for best results.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to get the best texture and to avoid extra water in your sauce.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, simply substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even a splash of lemon juice to maintain brightness in the sauce.
How spicy is this recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat that livens the dish without overwhelming it. You can easily adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The recipe itself is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free pasta or rice, and substitute any bread with a gluten-free option.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cooked shrimp and sauce store well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a quick and tasty lunch or dinner option.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a brilliant way to bring restaurant-quality flavor home any night of the week. Don’t hesitate to try it out—the combination of garlicky shrimp swimming in a vibrant tomato sauce will have you coming back for seconds and sharing it with everyone you love.
Print
Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice. Perfectly paired with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, this recipe offers a delicious and easy meal that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Serving Suggestions
- Pasta, rice, or crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet, along with the white wine if using. Stir to combine. Add oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Add the Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the tomato sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and basil over the dish before serving. Optionally, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Serve the Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce over your favorite pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, white wine adds depth but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred level of heat.
- Peeling and deveining shrimp beforehand saves preparation time.
- Fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp’s tender texture and vibrant sauce.
