Here’s a full, polished recipe profile for Grilled Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce, including all the requested sections with wide lines removed and formatted for clarity:
Introduction
Grilled Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a decadent seafood dish that blends the smoky char of grilled shrimp with a luscious, velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce. This savory entrée is perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or an elevated weeknight meal. The balance of bold spices and rich creaminess ensures a flavorful experience with every bite.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Grilled shrimp is beloved in coastal cuisines around the world, from the Mediterranean to the American South. This particular dish draws inspiration from Italian-American cooking, where garlic and Parmesan are foundational flavors. Pairing grilled seafood with cream sauces reflects a fusion of rustic grilling traditions and the indulgence of classic European cuisine, especially in celebratory meals.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
- Chopped chives or basil instead of parsley
- A splash of white wine in the sauce for added depth
- Serve over angel hair pasta or risotto for a complete meal
Tips for Success
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should be just opaque and pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Stir the sauce continuously to prevent separation and ensure a silky finish.
- Grate fresh Parmesan for the creamiest, smoothest texture.
- Let the shrimp rest for a minute before adding the sauce so it clings well without watering down.
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Grill shrimp 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Skewering helps with easy handling.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Add Parmesan and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Serve:
- Arrange grilled shrimp on a serving plate.
- Drizzle with the warm garlic cream sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Serve immediately with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Description
Each bite of Grilled Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce delivers a beautiful contrast of textures and tastes—the charred, smoky bite of shrimp paired with a silky garlic-Parmesan sauce rich with buttery flavor and a zing of lemon. The garnish of parsley adds freshness and color, while the seasoning makes the dish pop with savory depth.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Conclusion
Grilled Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce is an impressive yet accessible dish that offers rich flavor without excessive prep. Its versatility makes it perfect for pairing with various sides, and it delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking to impress or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Recommendation
Serve this dish with a glass of chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Pair it with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or buttered pasta to round out the meal. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad works beautifully.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This recipe celebrates balance—lean shrimp offer high-quality protein, while the creamy sauce adds indulgence in a portion-controlled way. To lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or reduce the butter slightly. Using fresh herbs and lemon keeps flavors vibrant without needing excess salt or fat. Enjoying meals like this mindfully ensures both pleasure and nourishment.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version or to turn this into a recipe card or blog post layout!