Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is just what you need! Imagine plump, juicy shrimp swimming in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, creating a combination that’s downright irresistible. This dish comes together in just a few minutes, making it the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party. It’s simple, elegant, and guaranteed to please your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

• Quick & Easy: You can have this delicious dish on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The shrimp soak up all the goodness of the garlicky tomato sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination. It’s a little tangy, a little savory, and oh-so-satisfying.
• Low-carb and Keto-Friendly: With shrimp and a rich tomato base, this dish is low in carbs, making it ideal for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
• Versatile: You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

For the Shrimp:

• Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp, preferably large or jumbo for extra bite. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the shrimp and adding flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aromatic kick to the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the shrimp and enhancing their flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they give a nice little kick of heat to the dish. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

For the Tomato Sauce:

• Canned Diced Tomatoes: The base of the sauce. You can also use fresh tomatoes, but canned diced tomatoes are easy and convenient.
• Tomato Paste: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Onion: A small amount of finely chopped onion gives a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
• Herbs: Basil, oregano, and a pinch of sugar help balance the flavors and enhance the tomato sauce.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the garlic, onions, and creating a silky smooth sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but a sprinkle of parmesan on top of the shrimp makes this dish extra special.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, and season them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Now, stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, basil, oregano, and a pinch of sugar. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra herbs as needed.

Step 3: Combine Shrimp with Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Stir gently to coat the shrimp with the sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are heated through and the sauce has absorbed all the garlic goodness.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Serve the garlic shrimp in tomato sauce hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and grated parmesan cheese (if desired). This dish is perfect for pairing with a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

• With Pasta: Spoon the garlic shrimp and sauce over a bed of spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice for a classic combination.
• With Rice: Serve it over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• With Zucchini Noodles: If you’re looking for something lighter, zucchini noodles (zoodles) are a great way to enjoy this dish in a healthier, veggie-filled way.
• With Crusty Bread: Use a nice loaf of crusty bread to dip into the flavorful tomato sauce. It’s the perfect way to savor every last bite!

Additional Tips

• Frozen Shrimp: If you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t release excess water into the sauce.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy Option: If you want a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for an extra heat boost.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier version, stir in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese to the tomato sauce once it’s simmered. This will make the sauce rich and velvety.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 bowl (Out of 4)

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 16g (25% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (15% DV)
• Cholesterol: 230mg (77% DV)
• Sodium: 600mg (25% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 12g (4% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 30g (60% DV)

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient substitutions or portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A1: Yes! Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture in the sauce.

Q2: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

A2: You can! Use about 4 medium tomatoes. Chop them up and cook them down with a little extra olive oil until they break down into a sauce-like consistency.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A3: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply add the shrimp when you’re ready to serve.

Q4: Can I make this dish spicier?

A4: Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce to turn up the heat.

Q5: Can I use a different type of seafood?

A5: Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with scallops, white fish, or lobster for a different twist.

Q6: How can I make this dish creamier?

A6: For a creamy version, stir in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce once it’s done simmering. It will make the sauce rich and velvety.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?

A7: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q8: Can I freeze this dish?

A8: Freezing is not recommended due to the shrimp’s delicate texture, but you can freeze the tomato sauce (without shrimp) for up to 3 months. Just add the shrimp when you reheat.

Q9: What can I serve this with?

A9: This dish is great with pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Q10: Can I make this dish without tomatoes?

A10: If you want to skip the tomatoes, you can try a garlic butter sauce instead. Simply sauté garlic in butter and add a little white wine or chicken broth for a different but equally delicious sauce.

Conclusion

This Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is the perfect combination of fresh, garlicky, and savory flavors. It’s quick, easy, and makes a great meal whether you’re dining alone or feeding a crowd. Whether you serve it with pasta, rice, or bread, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it tonight and experience the rich, comforting taste that will leave you coming back for more!

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