If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy seafood dish, Italian Roasted Shrimp is the perfect recipe to try. This dish combines succulent shrimp with aromatic garlic, olive oil, and Italian seasoning, resulting in a simple yet delicious meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or added to pasta or salad, these roasted shrimp are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, shrimp is a lean protein that’s easy to cook and absorb the flavors of the seasonings.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil helps the shrimp roast evenly and adds a rich, Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 tbsp minced garlic (about 4-5 cloves): Garlic is essential for an Italian-inspired dish. Its bold flavor complements the sweetness of the shrimp.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that brings out the classic Italian flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: These basic seasonings enhance the overall flavor of the shrimp.
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting at this temperature ensures the shrimp cook quickly while still retaining their juiciness.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if this hasn’t already been done. You can leave the tails on or remove them, depending on your preference. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to ensure they roast instead of steam.
- Season the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t too crowded, as this can prevent them from roasting properly and achieving that delicious, slightly crispy texture.
- Roast the Shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the shrimp for about 8-10 minutes. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with a slight curl. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Serve: Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added color and flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Quality Shrimp: Fresh shrimp works best, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning. This ensures they roast evenly.
- Even Cooking: Try to select shrimp of similar size to ensure they all cook at the same rate.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can be tough, while undercooked shrimp can be unsafe to eat.
- Serving Suggestions: These roasted shrimp are versatile. Serve them over a bed of pasta, in a salad, or as part of a seafood platter. They also pair well with roasted vegetables or a simple rice pilaf.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix if you like a bit of heat.
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the seasoning for a citrusy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add fresh herbs like basil or parsley after roasting for a burst of freshness.
Nutritional Information:
This Italian Roasted Shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that is rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, while garlic offers numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and heart health support.
Italian Roasted Shrimp is a quick, easy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or incorporating it into other dishes, this recipe is a great way to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal in no time!
