Shrimp with sauce (and rice)

Shrimp with sauce and rice – a special recipe for a delicious dinner

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the flavor of seafood with a fragrant sauce and a delicious side? Shrimp with sauce is a perfect choice for a quick yet impressive dinner, ideal for a romantic date or a meal with friends. This dish is simple to make, but it will make you feel like a true chef in your own kitchen. Let's get started!

Ingredients

- 200 g peeled shrimp (preferably smaller than a finger, fresh, not frozen)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of whisky or cognac
- Juice of half an orange
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 200 g pasta (preferably spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 large red bell pepper (or 2 small ones)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sunflower oil)

Preparation

1. Marinating the shrimp: Start by adding the shrimp to a bowl. Add the crushed garlic, whisky (or cognac), orange juice, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix the ingredients well to ensure all the flavors combine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. This step is essential to allow the shrimp to absorb all the delicious flavors.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the red bell pepper. Cut it into cubes or strips. If you prefer, you can lightly sauté it in a pan with a little olive oil to enhance its flavor. This way, the pepper will become tastier and add a juicy note to the dish.

3. Cooking the shrimp: After marinating, take the shrimp out of the refrigerator. In a pan, add a tablespoon of sunflower oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly browned. This is where the magic happens! The shrimp will release the aroma of the sauce and transform into a delight.

4. Grill alternative: If you have access to a grill, this recipe becomes even more special. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, alternating with cubes of red pepper. The grill will give a unique smoky flavor, and the shrimp will be truly delicious. Grill them over medium heat, turning them on all sides for about 1 minute on each side.

5. Preparing the pasta: While the shrimp is cooking, boil the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, for the perfect texture. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and mix it with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to give it a rich flavor and an appetizing appearance.

6. Serving: Place the pasta on plates, add the shrimp on top, and sprinkle some sautéed pepper cubes for a vibrant look. You can decorate the plate with a slice of orange or a few parsley leaves for an extra pop of color. Don't forget the sweet-spicy sauce in which the shrimp marinated; it can be served on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Helpful tips

- Shrimp selection: Choose fresh shrimp that have a firm texture. Frozen shrimp will not have the same flavor and texture.
- Sauce: If you like spicier dishes, add a few drops of hot sauce to the marinade. It will add intensity and make the dish more interesting.
- Variations: If you want to experiment, you can also add some fresh herbs to the marinade, such as cilantro or basil. They will bring a fresh note to the dish.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Nutritional benefits

Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, low in calories and fat. They also contain antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. Additionally, oranges provide a good dose of vitamin C, while vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients. It's a dish that's not only tasty but also healthy!

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen shrimp? Although not recommended, if you have no other option, make sure to thaw them properly before using.
- What other sides can I use? You can also opt for quinoa or a fresh green salad, which will add an extra touch of freshness.
- Is this dish suitable for vegans? No, but you can adapt the recipe by replacing the shrimp with tofu or mushrooms, marinating them in the same sauce.

Shrimp with sauce and rice is undoubtedly an excellent choice for a meal full of flavors and textures. This simple yet sophisticated recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Get ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills! Bon appétit!