Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings together the succulence of perfectly cooked shrimp and the bold, vibrant flavors of a spicy tomato sauce. This recipe is a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that will transport you to the sun-drenched coasts of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at a gathering, these Spicy Shrimp in Tomato Sauce are guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 400g raw, peeled (medium to large)
- Onion: 1 medium (about 150g), finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced
- Chili: 1 fresh red chili (or 1/2 teaspoon chili powder)
- Tomatoes: 1 can chopped (about 400g)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Seasonings: Fine salt, freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish: Fresh coriander or flat-leaf parsley
- Optional: Juice of half a lemon
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Ingredient Preparation
- Peel shrimp if needed
- Rinse shrimp under cold water and drain thoroughly
- Finely chop onion
- Mince garlic cloves
- Remove seeds from chili pepper for less heat (optional)
2. Aromatic Sauté
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
- Add chopped onion
- Sauté gently for 4-5 minutes until translucent and lightly golden
- Add garlic and chili pepper
- Cook for 1 minute, stirring to prevent burning
3. Spice Infusion
- Sprinkle sweet paprika and ground cumin over the mixture
- Stir to coat vegetables with spices
- Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute to enhance flavors
4. Tomato Sauce Base
- Pour chopped tomatoes into the pan
- Add sugar to balance tomato acidity
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally
5. Cooking the Shrimp
- Add shrimp to the simmering tomato sauce
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through
- Be careful not to overcook to maintain tenderness
- Optional: Add lemon juice for brightness
6. Finishing Touches
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
- Garnish with fresh coriander or parsley
- Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice
Nutritional Information & Serving Details
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes
Nutritional Highlights (per serving):
- High in protein
- Low in calories
- Rich in lycopene from tomatoes
- Good source of selenium from shrimp
- Approximate calories: 250-300
Why This Recipe is a Healthy Choice
This Spicy Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Shrimp provides lean protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids, while tomatoes offer a rich source of antioxidants like lycopene. The combination of spices not only adds incredible flavor but also provides potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
The dish is naturally low in calories and carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for those watching their weight or following a balanced diet. The use of olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, creating a well-rounded, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Pro Tip: For an even lighter version, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate intake.