Craving a restaurant-quality meal but short on time? Look no further! This Camarones Con Crema recipe delivers a burst of flavor in minutes, making it the perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. This creamy shrimp dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a healthy and delicious alternative to heavier meals. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet sophisticated homemade cooking masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of your delicious dish.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. Overcooked shrimp become tough, so keep a close eye on them.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off. This step adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Don't boil, as this can cause the cream to curdle.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for dipping. This easy recipe is best enjoyed fresh!
Cooking Tips for the Best Camarones Con Crema:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh shrimp and good quality heavy cream make a noticeable difference in the final taste.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more white wine or chicken broth. For a thicker sauce, simmer for a longer time.
Variations:
- Spicy Camarones Con Crema: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the garlic for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Tomato Camarones Con Crema: Stir in 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes along with the cream for a richer, tomato-based sauce.
- Lemon Camarones Con Crema: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with the lime juice for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on serving size and additions) Protein: High Fat: Moderate Carbohydrates: Low (depending on serving with rice or pasta)
This Camarones Con Crema recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can be quick and easy to prepare. It’s a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or just a satisfying meal any time. Enjoy!