Description
This Creamy Tuscan Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and basil. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's a perfect dish for a quick yet elegant meal that bursts with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp (31-40 count size), thawed and peeled, tails optional
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon flour
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped or julienned
- 1-2 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
- Handful fresh basil, cut into thin strips
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, place them in a colander and run under cool water until fully thawed. Peel and devein if not already done, leaving tails on or off as preferred.
- Melt butter and make roux: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about one minute until the mixture is smooth and starts to bubble.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for roughly 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Prepare the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 minutes, lowering heat as needed if it bubbles too vigorously.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the sauce thickens slightly. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
- Add greens and finish: Stir in the baby spinach and basil, cooking for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately. Optionally, squeeze extra lemon juice over the top or grate fresh Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- For best texture, avoid overcooking the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy richness; if unavailable, use roasted red peppers for a different twist.
- This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Optional toppings like fresh Parmesan and extra lemon juice enhance the refreshing and savory notes of the dish.
- Using freshly minced garlic rather than pre-minced ensures optimal flavor.
