Garlic shrimp

Delicious Garlic and Basil Shrimp Recipe

If you've decided to try shrimp for the first time, you're about to discover a world full of unique flavors and textures! Shrimp, these delicacies of the sea, are not only tasty but also very versatile. The recipe we will explore today is simple yet impressive, ideal for someone looking to bring a touch of refinement to their kitchen. Whether you serve them at a special dinner or as a quick snack, these garlic and basil shrimp will win you over without a doubt.

Preparation Time:
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 4-5 minutes
- Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 300 g peeled, frozen shrimp
- 2 green garlic stalks (or 3-4 regular garlic cloves)
- 4 tablespoons of cognac
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika

A Brief History of Shrimp:
Shrimp have been a food source for humans for millennia, with a rich history in various culinary cultures. They have become a popular ingredient due to their versatility and delicate taste. Their preparation does not take much time, and quick cooking preserves their flavor and juiciness, making them an excellent choice for festive meals or casual gatherings.

Step by Step: Preparing Garlic Shrimp

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by thawing the shrimp if they are frozen. You can leave them at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or submerge them in a bowl of cold water for 10 minutes. Make sure they are well-drained before cooking. Finely chop the green garlic or regular garlic cloves and prepare the basil by cutting it into small strips.

2. Heating the oil:
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over low heat. It is essential that the oil is not too hot at first, so as not to burn the garlic, which will give flavor to this wonderful dish.

3. Cooking the garlic:
Add the chopped garlic to the skillet and let it sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. The garlic should become soft and release its aroma, but it should not turn brown. If it starts to darken, immediately reduce the heat.

4. Adding the shrimp:
Once the garlic is cooked, increase the heat and add the shrimp. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. These spices will add depth to the flavor, and the paprika will give a beautiful color to the dish. Gently stir with a spatula to coat the shrimp with the garlic flavors.

5. Deglazing with cognac:
Pour the cognac into the skillet and drizzle everything with fresh lemon juice. This step will not only intensify the flavors but also add a touch of acidity that will balance the taste. Cook the shrimp for a maximum of 3-4 minutes until they turn pink-orange. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become tough and lose their juiciness.

6. Finishing and serving:
Once the shrimp are ready, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Sprinkle fresh basil on top for an extra touch of freshness. This dish is best served warm, alongside pasta, sauces, or on slices of toasted bread, turning it into a delicious snack.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:
- You can try adding some sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to complete the dish.
- If you love spices, you can add chili flakes for an extra kick.
- An excellent alternative to cognac is white wine, which pairs perfectly with seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Why do shrimp cook so quickly? Shrimp are very delicate and cook quickly. Prolonged cooking can make them rubbery.
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, frozen shrimp are perfect for this recipe, just make sure to thaw them properly.
- What other drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a gin-based cocktail can perfectly complement the taste of the sea.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving, most of which come from shrimp and olive oil. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, and olive oil is rich in healthy fatty acids. This is a good choice for a light and nutritious meal.

I hope you enjoy this delicious garlic and basil shrimp recipe! Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to experiment and develop your culinary skills. I encourage you to share your experiences and venture into the world of seafood delicacies!