Name: Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Juice of ½ lemon

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If you love bold Mediterranean flavors, then Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Imagine juicy, plump shrimp swimming in a savory, fragrant tomato sauce, scented with garlic, onions, and just the right kick of smoky spices. This simple skillet dish combines the freshest ingredients with vibrant seasoning, all coming together in less than half an hour. Whether you want to serve it over fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or with a big slice of crusty bread for dipping, this dish will truly transport you straight to the sun-soaked coast of your dreams.

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is how accessible the ingredients are, yet each one brings its own magic to the table. Every addition adds something special, from flavor to texture to color, making this meal both irresistible and easy to pull together any night of the week.

Shrimp (1 lb, large, peeled and deveined): Go for large, quality shrimp to get that tender, juicy bite. Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp are both fantastic.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): A good olive oil forms the flavorful base and helps all the aromatics shine.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): This is where the real aroma comes from; the garlic infuses the entire dish with its warmth.
Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and body to the sauce, rounding out the overall flavor.
Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): The heart of the sauce! Go for high-quality canned tomatoes for the brightest flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): These add a lovely touch of heat—use more or less according to your spice preference.
Smoked Paprika (½ teaspoon): For a hint of smokiness that plays beautifully with the sweet tomatoes and shrimp.
Dried Oregano (½ teaspoon): Brings in subtle herbal notes, giving the sauce its unmistakable Mediterranean depth.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect balance.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Sprinkled at the end for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Lemon Juice (from ½ a lemon): Adds a zippy, bright finish that brings everything to life!

How to Make Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, stirring frequently so you don’t burn the garlic. After just a couple of minutes, your kitchen will smell incredible—this golden, aromatic base is what makes Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce so deeply flavorful.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes if you love a little heat, along with the smoked paprika and dried oregano. Let these cook for about a minute; the spices will bloom and meld, making the final sauce so much more complex and irresistible. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season generously with salt and black pepper, then stir everything together. Leave the sauce to simmer, uncovered, for 10 to 12 minutes so it can thicken and the flavors concentrate.

Step 3: Add the Shrimp

When your sauce looks rich and has slightly reduced, gently tuck the shrimp into the skillet. Let them cook for 3 to 5 minutes, turning them once so they cook evenly. As soon as they turn opaque and pink, they’re done—be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if left too long.

Step 4: Finish with Freshness

Take the skillet off the heat and squeeze in the juice from half a lemon. Sprinkle in the chopped fresh parsley, giving it all one last gentle stir. This step adds a sparkle of brightness and a gorgeous hint of green, making the Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce truly come alive.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Garnishes

Finish your skillet with extra chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color, or try adding a light dusting of lemon zest to really lift those citrus notes. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top can add a touch of richness if you’re feeling fancy. For those who love a bit of heat, a final sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes never goes amiss!

Side Dishes

You have so many fabulous options to complement your Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce! Serve it over fluffy white rice, nestle it into perfectly al dente spaghetti, or mop up every drop with slices of warm, crusty bread. If you’re looking for a lighter twist, zucchini noodles or a bed of greens provide a fresh, low-carb pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, consider serving the shrimp and sauce in small individual bowls with toasted crostini for scooping—guests will be wowed by this interactive style. You can also layer the shrimp over polenta or creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal. Want to impress? Dish it up in a shallow serving platter, sprinkled with parsley and lemon slices for a bistro-style finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, simply let them cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to two days, and the flavors only deepen as they mingle overnight.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, although shrimp can sometimes lose a bit of their tenderness after thawing. If you decide to freeze, place the cooled shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Just remember to thaw it gently in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring gently until everything is just heated through. Avoid using high heat, as shrimp can become tough if overcooked a second time. A splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it’s thickened up in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work perfectly; just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water, and pat them dry thoroughly so they sear nicely.

Is this dish spicy?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but the dish is not overly spicy by default. You can increase or decrease the amount to suit your own taste, or leave it out completely if serving kids or spice-sensitive eaters.

What can I substitute for smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular sweet paprika works fine, though the dish will lose a hint of smokiness. A small pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder can add another layer if you like things bold.

Can Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce be made ahead?

The sauce can absolutely be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days. For best texture, cook and add the shrimp just before serving so they remain perfectly juicy and tender.

What’s the best way to devein shrimp?

Use a small, sharp paring knife or a dedicated shrimp deveiner. Make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and gently remove the dark vein with the tip. It’s quick and easy, and ensures your finished Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is pristine.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a rewarding meal that’s both quick and unforgettable, you can’t go wrong with Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce. The depth of flavor, the vibrant colors, and that irresistible garlicky aroma make this a standout dish for any occasion. Don’t wait for a special event—treat yourself and your loved ones to this wonderfully easy Mediterranean classic tonight!

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe

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4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty tomato sauce with garlic, onion, and a hint of herbs, served over rice or pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Garlic Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped

For the Tomato Sauce:

1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Juice of ½ lemon

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Add Seasonings: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute more.
Cook Tomato Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3–5 minutes until pink and cooked through.
Finish and Serve: Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread.