Sautéed Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes
Try this Sautéed Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes recipe if you are looking for an easy and tasty dinner for busy weeknights. This recipe combines shrimp with fresh cherry tomatoes, creating a delicious meal you’ll want to make again and again. It’s perfect for seafood lovers and those who enjoy exploring new flavors!
This dish is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, which often uses simple and fresh ingredients. It brings the feeling of a seaside restaurant to your home. Enjoy it with pasta or by itself, and pair it with your favorite wine for a perfect meal.
Health Benefits of Sautéed Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes
This meal is also very healthy. Shrimp provides lean protein for muscle growth. Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports a strong immune system. Garlic and shallots add flavor and potential anti-inflammatory benefits. Capers provide essential vitamins and minerals. Combined with the healthy fats in olive oil, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
Wine Pairing Recommendations
- Sauvignon Blanc: Complements the bright flavors of the cherry tomato sauce.
- Chardonnay: Adds richness, especially with a creamier sauce.
- Pinot Grigio: Light and fruity, won’t overpower the dish.
- Rosé: Balanced acidity and fruit-forward, contrasts nicely with the savory shrimp.
- Light-bodied Red Wine: Pinot Noir or Gamay, gentle tannins and vibrant fruit flavors.
Serving Suggestions for Sautéed Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes
To make this dish really exceptional, serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delectable sauce. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette balances the rich tastes of the shrimp and tomato. This meal pairs well with a bigger Mediterranean-inspired buffet that includes hummus, tzatziki, olives, and feta cheese.
Conclusion
Sautéed Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes is a great, easy dinner for busy nights. The shrimp and cherry tomatoes make a tasty and healthy meal. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, this dish brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your home. Enjoy it with pasta or by itself, and pair it with your favorite wine for a perfect meal.
Sautéed Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes
Equipment
- 1 Skillet medium to large size
Ingredients
- 1 pound of fresh shrimp peeled and deveined
- 6 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon shallot finely chopped
- 1 long red chili pepper finely chopped
- 16 cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup of dry white wine
- Fresh parsley leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, and extra virgin olive oil to the shrimp. Mix well to coat them evenly.
Prepare the Cherry Tomato Sauce
- In a pan or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic (save some for sautéing the shrimp), finely chopped chili pepper, and chopped shallot. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Stir in the tomato paste and mix well to combine the flavors. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices. Using a spoon or a potato masher, lightly crush the tomatoes to create a thick sauce.
- Add a splash of dry white wine to deglaze the pan. Wait for 30 seconds, then add 1/2 cup of water. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sauce simmer for another 8–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Shrimp
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the shrimp. In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant and lightly golden. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
Combine Shrimp and Sauce
- Pour the cherry tomato sauce over the sautéed shrimp. Stir well to combine the sauce with the shrimp and any juices in the pan. Cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the shrimp are heated through and have absorbed the flavors.
Final Touches
- Add the freshly chopped parsley and capers, and cook for about 10 seconds to soften them.
- Transfer the shrimp with cherry tomato sauce to a serving dish.
- Serve hot as a main dish with your choice of sides, or over cooked pasta for a delightful pasta dish.
Video
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and cherry tomatoes will give the best flavor and texture to your dish. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to properly thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
- Pat Dry Your Shrimp: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Before you start cooking, make sure to pat your shrimp dry. This will allow them to sear and not steam, resulting in a much more flavorful dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes per side depending on their size. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and lose flavor, so keep a close eye on them.
- Season Well: Shrimp and tomatoes both benefit from a good amount of seasoning. Salt, pepper, and garlic are great, but consider adding some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or some paprika for a smoky flavor. Lemon zest or juice can also help brighten up the flavors.
- Sauté Cherry Tomatoes Until Just Bursting: You want to sauté your cherry tomatoes until they start to burst and release their juices, but not so long that they become mushy. This will give you a nice mix of whole tomatoes and flavorful sauce.
- Use a Good Quality Olive Oil: This dish has very few ingredients, so the ones you use should be high quality. A good olive oil will add a lot of flavor to your dish.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil, parsley, or even mint can add a fresh touch to this dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, a small amount of dried ones will do.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served immediately after it’s prepared. If left to sit, the shrimp can become overcooked and the tomatoes can become soggy.
- Pair it Right: Pair this dish with a light, citrusy white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light pasta, like angel hair pasta, to create a balanced meal.