Name: Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp (large, peeled, and deveined - 16 or 20 count per 1 pound); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (coarse); 5 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (chopped - about ¼ cup); 14 oz artichoke hearts (drained and chopped - 1 can or about 1 cup); 4 oz fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; to taste salt

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a delightful one-pan, 30-minute dinner that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household for its vibrant ingredients and rich, comforting taste. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy evening with family, this dish perfectly balances ease and indulgence. Each bite is bursting with flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and artichokes, making it an unforgettable meal.

Not only is this Tuscan Shrimp (One-Pan, 30-Minute Dinner) a breeze to prepare, but it’s also low-carb and high in protein. You can feel good about serving it any night of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– Quick preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a gourmet meal even on busy nights.

– One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.

– Health-conscious: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish aligns perfectly with healthy eating goals.

– Versatile options: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

– Family-approved: Its rich flavor profile makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients is half the fun of cooking! Here are the key components you’ll need for this scrumptious dish:

For the Shrimp

– 1 lb raw shrimp (large, peeled, and deveined – 16 or 20 count per 1 pound of shrimp)

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary)

– ¼ teaspoon salt

– ¼ teaspoon black pepper (coarse)

For the Sauce

– 5 cloves garlic (minced)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (chopped – about ¼ cup)

– 14 oz artichoke hearts (drained and chopped – 1 can or about 1 cup)

– 4 oz fresh spinach

– 1 cup heavy cream

– ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some tasty variations you can try:

– Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or firm tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.

– Add more veggies: Incorporate zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

– Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

– Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you enjoy some heat in your meals.

How to Make Tuscan Shrimp (One-Pan, 30-Minute Dinner)

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Start by seasoning your shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This step is crucial because it infuses the shrimp with flavor right from the beginning.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about one minute. This will create a delicious aroma that sets the stage for your Tuscan sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and opaque—approximately two to three minutes per side. It’s important not to overcook them; they should be tender and juicy.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts into the skillet. Cook for an additional two minutes until warmed through. This step adds layers of texture and flavor that make this dish stand out.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Cream

Next, toss in fresh spinach and pour in heavy cream. Stir everything together gently until well combined. Allow it to simmer for about three minutes until heated through; this helps thicken the sauce while letting all those wonderful flavors meld together.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste your sauce before serving! Adjust salt if needed and sprinkle in an extra pinch of smoked paprika for depth if desired.

Serve hot over your favorite side like rice or cauliflower mash for a complete meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite of your delicious Tuscan Shrimp!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan Shrimp (One-Pan, 30-Minute Dinner)

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with a few handy tips, you can whip up this delicious Tuscan Shrimp in no time! Here are some pro tips to make your cooking experience even smoother and more enjoyable.

– Prep your ingredients first: Having everything chopped and ready to go will streamline the cooking process and ensure you stay on track during those 30 minutes.

– Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. They should turn pink and opaque; overcooking leads to rubbery shrimp.

– Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor in your dish.

– Adjust the creaminess: If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. It will still be delicious!

– Experiment with spices: Feel free to add red pepper flakes for an extra kick or swap out herbs based on what you have on hand.

How to Serve Tuscan Shrimp (One-Pan, 30-Minute Dinner)

Presenting your Tuscan Shrimp beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving style.

Garnishes

– Fresh basil leaves: Adding a few sprigs of chopped basil not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s fresh flavor.

– Grated Parmesan cheese (or a dairy-free alternative): A sprinkle of cheese on top brings richness and depth to your meal.

Side Dishes

– Quinoa: This protein-packed grain complements the flavors of Tuscan Shrimp while keeping it low-carb.

– Zucchini noodles: A fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauces.

– Garlic bread: Toasted bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from this dish.

– Steamed asparagus: This bright green vegetable adds a lovely crunch and freshness alongside your shrimp.

Make Ahead and Storage

Meal prepping can save you valuable time during hectic weekdays, and this Tuscan Shrimp recipe is perfect for that! Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

– Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

– Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

– Let the cooked shrimp cool completely before freezing.

– Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

– For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

– If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.

FAQs

Cooking questions can pop up at any time! Here are some common queries regarding this recipe that may help clarify things for you.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or by placing them under cold running water.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is not spicy as written, but you can easily add red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences!

Can I substitute heavy cream?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream or any non-dairy milk thickened with cornstarch or flour.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Tuscan Shrimp as much as I do! It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavors that will surely impress your family or guests. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!