Looking for a quick and tasty meal? You’ll love this One-Skillet Mediterranean Shrimp recipe! With fresh shrimp, colorful veggies, and bold herbs, it’s a dish that’s easy to prepare and fun to eat. Plus, you only need one skillet to make cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into the ingredients and whip up a flavorful dinner that delights your taste buds in no time!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This one-skillet meal comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of shrimp, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean spices creates a deliciously vibrant dish.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from shrimp and fiber from quinoa or couscous, it's a satisfying and healthy choice.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or grains to make it your own!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
The main ingredients bring the dish to life. Fresh shrimp give it a sweet flavor. Olive oil adds richness and helps cook the veggies. The red bell pepper adds crunch and color, while the red onion gives a mild kick. Garlic adds depth, and zucchini adds a nice texture. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, and the herbs bring out all the flavors.
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Optional ingredients can elevate your dish. Quinoa or couscous adds hearty texture. Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds color. Lemon juice gives a zesty kick, enhancing the flavors. Feta cheese adds creaminess and a salty bite. You can mix and match these ingredients based on your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 small red onion, finely chopped, and 1 diced red bell pepper. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
Adding Flavor
- Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 sliced zucchini. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Include 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
Cooking the Shrimp
- Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add 1 pound of large shrimp to the empty side. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Combine the shrimp with the vegetables in the skillet. Mix in 1 cup of cooked quinoa or couscous, ensuring everything heats through for another minute.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Shrimp
For the best flavor, choose fresh shrimp. Fresh shrimp taste sweet and succulent. If you use frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Overcooking shrimp makes them tough. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink. This keeps them tender and juicy.
Flavor Additions
Use herbs and spices to boost the dish's taste. Dried oregano and smoked paprika work great here. They add depth and warmth to the shrimp. For brightness, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving. This adds a zesty kick that brightens the whole meal.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish your dish with crumbled feta cheese. The creamy texture pairs well with the shrimp. It also adds a salty flavor that enhances every bite. Pair this dish with a light salad or warm bread. A side of quinoa or couscous complements the shrimp nicely too.
Pro Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp and seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Cooking Shrimp: Do not overcook the shrimp; they should only take 2-3 minutes to turn pink and opaque.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while cooking.
- Meal Prep: This dish can be made in advance and reheated for a quick weeknight dinner; just add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Variations
Vegetable Variations
You can boost the veggie power in this dish. Try adding spinach or artichokes. They give great flavor and color. You can also swap out zucchini for asparagus or broccoli. These changes keep the dish fresh and fun.
Protein Options
If you want something different, use scallops or another type of fish. They complement the flavors well. For a vegetarian twist, use chickpeas instead of shrimp. This makes the dish hearty without meat.
Grain Alternatives
Switch to brown rice if you prefer a different grain. It adds a nutty taste. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. This keeps your meal light and healthy.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and safe. Make sure to cool it down before sealing it. You can keep the One-Skillet Mediterranean Shrimp in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the shrimp may lose its taste and texture.
Freezing Tips
For long-term storage, you can freeze the dish. First, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the dish will expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for up to two months.
To thaw, place the container in the fridge overnight. You can also use a microwave for faster thawing. When ready to eat, reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly. You can add a splash of water or broth to help keep it moist.
FAQs
How long does it take to make One-Skillet Mediterranean Shrimp?
This dish takes about 25 minutes to make. You need 10 minutes to prep. The cooking time is just 15 minutes. This quick meal fits into any busy schedule.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them before cooking. To thaw, place shrimp in cold water for 15-20 minutes. You can also leave them in the fridge overnight. Just make sure they are fully thawed for even cooking.
What can I serve with One-Skillet Mediterranean Shrimp?
You can serve this dish with many sides. Try a fresh green salad, warm bread, or roasted vegetables. Quinoa or couscous pairs well as a base. You can even add a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki on the side for extra flavor.
In this post, we explored a simple and tasty One-Skillet Mediterranean Shrimp recipe. We covered key ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. You learned tips for perfecting the shrimp and how to add variety. Remember, fresh shrimp and a squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavors. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. With these ideas, you can create a delicious meal that is quick and fun. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
