15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Dinner

This hearty garlic shrimp in tomato sauce has been my weeknight dinner savior for years. When I need something impressive yet effortless, this 15-minute wonder with just five ingredients delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

I first created this dish during a particularly hectic work week when my pantry was nearly empty. What started as a desperate dinner solution has become my most requested recipe when friends come over for an impromptu dinner.

Ingredients

• Fresh tomatoes: They create a naturally sweet base for the sauce without any added sugars or preservatives. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Large shrimp: The star of this dish. Look for fresh or properly thawed shrimp that smells clean and oceanic. Wild-caught offers the best flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic provides an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish. Avoid pre-minced options for the fullest flavor.
• Fresh dill: This herb adds a bright, citrusy note that perfectly complements the seafood. Choose bunches with vibrant green color and strong aroma.
• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for both cooking and finishing the dish with its fruity notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare The Tomato Base:

Chop fresh tomatoes into small pieces and add them to a non-stick pan with a tablespoon of olive oil. Cover with a lid and cook for 4-5 minutes until they break down and transform into a rustic sauce. The tomatoes should release their juices and become slightly jammy in texture.

Cook The Shrimp:

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp directly to the simmering tomato sauce. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn completely pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook as they will become rubbery if left too long.

Finish With Aromatics:

Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the minced garlic, freshly chopped dill, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. The residual heat will gently cook the garlic without burning it, preserving its aromatic qualities while removing the raw bite.

Serve Immediately:

Transfer to serving plates right away to enjoy at its peak freshness. The garlic will continue to infuse the warm sauce, creating an increasingly flavorful experience with each bite.

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The secret to this dish lies in adding the garlic at the very end. I learned this technique from my Greek neighbor who insisted that cooking garlic too long destroys its medicinal properties and complex flavor profile. Following her advice elevated this simple dish to something truly special.

Sauce Consistency Tips

If your tomatoes haven’t broken down completely or the sauce seems too watery, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken it. This simple addition concentrates the flavors while creating the perfect consistency. Summer tomatoes tend to be juicier than winter ones, so keep this trick in your back pocket for year-round success.

Customization Options

This versatile recipe welcomes personal touches based on what you have available. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, a splash of white wine for depth, or stir in baby spinach at the end for added nutrition. For a creamier version, a spoonful of coconut cream or Greek yogurt creates a luxurious finish that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

While perfectly delicious on its own, this garlic shrimp in tomato sauce becomes a complete meal when paired with sides. Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, with zucchini noodles for extra vegetables, or alongside a crusty sourdough bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce. A simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil complements the richness of the dish.

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This recipe is a sure winner for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its vibrant and fresh flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute with one 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes, drained. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. Cook the canned tomatoes for about 3 minutes before adding the shrimp.

→ What can I serve with this garlic shrimp dish?

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or regular rice, pasta, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before adding to the tomato sauce. Frozen shrimp work perfectly in this dish when fresh isn't available.

→ How can I tell when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Properly cooked shrimp turn from translucent gray to opaque pink and form a 'C' shape. They should be firm to the touch but still tender. Be careful not to overcook as they can become rubbery.

→ Can I substitute the dill with another herb?

Yes, parsley, basil, or cilantro would all work wonderfully in this dish. Each herb will give a different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes to taste while cooking the tomatoes, or incorporate a small diced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the garlic for some heat.