Tuscan Shrimp brings the taste of Italy right to your table! This dish features plump shrimp tossed in a creamy garlic sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach—delicious!
You can whip up this meal in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I often serve it over pasta or rice, and it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Give it a try! 🦐❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen shrimp works too! Just thaw and drain them well. You can swap shrimp with scallops or even chicken if preferred.
Spinach: I love using fresh spinach for its bright flavor. However, you can substitute with kale or arugula as an alternative. Frozen spinach can be used too but make sure to squeeze out excess water.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, fresh tomatoes or even roasted red peppers can substitute, though they will alter the taste a bit. You can enjoy them both!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. Opt for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a dairy-free idea, nut-based milks work well but will be less creamy.
How Do You Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky! You want them tender without becoming rubbery. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp. This helps them sear quickly.
- Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking will lead to a tough texture.
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done to avoid residual heat from cooking them further.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
To make the sauce silky and thick, follow these steps:
- Start by simmering the cream gently after adding it to the skillet; don’t boil as this can cause separation.
- Adding Parmesan cheese will naturally thicken the sauce as it melts.
- If you’d like an even thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in until it thickens!
Enjoy your cooking adventure with Tuscan Shrimp!
How to Make Tuscan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving (Optional):
- Cooked rice or pasta
- Toasted bread slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Tuscan Shrimp recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying dish, perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. Let it get hot but not smoking. This is the perfect time to season your shrimp with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it brown.
4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Now, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This will help release their flavors into the oil.
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds wonderful flavor to your sauce!
6. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Add Spinach:
Mix in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts down, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This adds color and a nutritious element to the dish.
8. Combine with Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Gently toss them in the creamy sauce to ensure they are well-coated. Let everything heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
9. Final Seasoning:
Give the sauce a taste! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color! Serve your Tuscan shrimp hot over cooked rice or pasta, or enjoy it with toasted bread slices to relish every bit of the flavorful sauce.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Tuscan Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator, or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free choice, try coconut cream or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, keeping in mind that it won’t be as rich and creamy.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the garlic to ensure they cook properly before adding the cream.