Certainly! Here’s the full recipe profile for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Dish, including all the requested sections and the wide line removed.
Introduction
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Dish is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Juicy, tender shrimp are pan-seared and smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that’s infused with herbs and spices. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, it’s an effortless yet elegant meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for weeknights or date nights alike.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Shrimp cooked in cream-based sauces is a culinary staple in many coastal cuisines, from Mediterranean scampi dishes to Cajun shrimp Alfredo in Southern American kitchens. Garlic, long cherished for both its bold flavor and medicinal properties, is a global favorite—especially in Italian, Spanish, and Asian cooking. This dish unites universal ingredients—shrimp, garlic, and cream—into a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that transcends borders and celebrates the joy of simple yet flavorful cooking.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: juice of ½ lemon for brightness
Optional Additions
- Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp) – for a touch of heat
- White wine (¼ cup) – to deglaze the pan and add acidity
- Mushrooms (½ cup, sliced) – for earthiness and texture
- Spinach (1 cup, fresh) – stirred in at the end for extra nutrition
- Linguine or fettuccine – to serve as a creamy pasta entrée
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they turn rubbery fast. Cook until just pink and opaque.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
- Deglaze with wine or broth if desired to lift flavor bits from the pan.
- Let the cream simmer gently—don’t boil or it may curdle.
- Taste and adjust salt after adding Parmesan, which is naturally salty.
Instructions
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional lemon juice or white wine.
- Simmer sauce for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss in the creamy sauce for 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot over rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Description
This dish is creamy, garlicky, and luxuriously satisfying. The shrimp are juicy and well-seasoned, nestled in a rich sauce that’s balanced by herbs and a hint of Parmesan. The garlic shines through without overpowering, making it both comforting and refined. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like it took hours—but comes together in minutes.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving, serves 4)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Calcium: 20% DV
- Cholesterol: 230mg
Conclusion
The Creamy Garlic Shrimp Dish is a flavorful, fast, and versatile meal that elevates any dinner without stress. It’s rich, comforting, and sure to impress—perfect for both casual family nights and special occasions.
Recommendation
Serve over a bed of pasta, mashed potatoes, or creamy polenta for a complete comfort meal. Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a well-balanced experience.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While indulgent, this dish can be made lighter with simple swaps—use half-and-half instead of cream, or serve over zoodles or cauliflower rice. The shrimp provides lean protein, while the garlic and parsley offer antioxidant benefits. It’s a great example of how rich flavors and health-conscious ingredients can coexist deliciously.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version or a side dish pairing idea!