Colossal Shrimp in a Spicy Sauce

Introduction

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a shrimp dish that brings the heat while also delivering incredible flavors. Recently, I decided to try out a recipe for Colossal Shrimp in a Spicy Sauce, and it was a hit with my family! The combination of juicy, plump shrimp with a zesty, tomato-based sauce was perfect for a weeknight dinner but felt fancy enough for a special occasion. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices filled the kitchen, and the dish was devoured within minutes. Each bite was a delightful experience, with the shrimp being tender and succulent, perfectly complemented by the spicy, savory sauce. This dish has quickly become a favorite in our household!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Marina Del Rey Colossal Raw Shrimp, thawed and shells removed (size 8-12/pound)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 – 28 oz can of diced tomatoes (fire roasted if available), drained of juices
• 1 cup passata
• 1 jalapeño, diced (seeds and membrane optional)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon drained capers
• 10-12 small assorted olives
• 2/3 cup frozen corn
• Lemon zest for serving

Instructions

1. Season shrimp: In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Cook shrimp: In a large nonstick frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes. Flip the shrimp, then add minced garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are plump, opaque, and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan using tongs and set aside.
3. Make sauce: In the same pan, add the drained diced tomatoes, passata, diced jalapeño, chopped rosemary, capers, and olives. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
4. Add corn: After 10 minutes, stir in the frozen corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to heat through and blend with the sauce.
5. Combine: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss to coat them in the sauce. Simmer until the shrimp are heated through, which should take about 1 minute.
6. Serve: Divide the shrimp and sauce into two bowls. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness. Serve with additional red pepper flakes and hot chilies if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 2
• Calories: Approximately 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 220mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Divide the shrimp and sauce into bowls.
• Garnish with lemon zest.
• Offer additional red pepper flakes and sliced hot chilies on the side for those who enjoy extra heat.
• Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp can elevate the dish; if available, opt for wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor.
2. Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and jalapeño based on your spice preference.
3. Add Vegetables: Incorporate more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
4. Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: For a deeper flavor, choose fire-roasted diced tomatoes, which can enhance the overall taste of the sauce.
5. Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the dish right after cooking. The shrimp can become tough if left to sit in the sauce for too long.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.
• Seafood Mix: Include other seafood such as scallops or mussels for a mixed seafood dish.
• Herb Alternatives: Substitute rosemary with fresh basil or cilantro for a different herb profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the dish with a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: The cooked dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the shrimp and sauce separately to maintain texture.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

• Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

1. What can I substitute for passata?

• You can use tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes as an alternative.

1. Is this dish gluten-free?

• Yes, the ingredients used are gluten-free, making this a suitable option for gluten-sensitive diets.

1. How can I make it less spicy?

• Reduce the amount of red pepper flakes and omit the jalapeño.

1. Can I use different types of shrimp?

• Absolutely! Any size or variety of shrimp will work, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

1. What side dishes go well with this recipe?

• Rice, couscous, or crusty bread pair well with this shrimp dish.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• While you can prep the ingredients, it’s best to cook it fresh to keep the shrimp tender.

1. What type of olive oil should I use?

• Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

1. Can I add more vegetables?

• Yes! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients.

1. How long does it take to cook shrimp?
   • Shrimp cook quickly; about 4-6 minutes total should suffice.

Conclusion

Colossal Shrimp in a Spicy Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is sure to impress at any dinner table. With its combination of fresh shrimp, a zesty tomato-based sauce, and a hint of spice, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is both easy to prepare and delicious to eat. Enjoy this shrimp delight with your favorite sides, and savor every bite!

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