Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This Shrimp Oreganata recipe is your answer. A classic Mediterranean dish, it's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This easy recipe delivers big on taste, boasting a delightful combination of juicy shrimp, fragrant oregano, and a perfectly crispy garlic-herb topping. It’s the perfect quick dinner idea, healthy meal, and a delicious dish to impress your friends and family. Get ready for a taste of the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried oregano)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your shrimp cooks perfectly and the topping gets beautifully golden brown.
Preparing the Shrimp Oreganata:
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In a large bowl, gently toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the shrimp are evenly coated. Over-mixing can toughen the shrimp.
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In a separate small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped oregano, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. This mixture will create the flavorful and crunchy topping.
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Spread the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Evenly distribute the garlic-herb mixture over the shrimp, making sure each shrimp is generously coated.
Baking and Serving:
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
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Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the shrimp with fresh lemon juice. This adds a bright, acidic touch that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the dish.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Oreganata:
- Don't overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Start checking for doneness around the 8-minute mark.
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh oregano and parsley make a significant difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste. If you like a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to add more garlic. The same goes for the oregano, salt, and pepper.
- For extra crispy topping, you can broil the shrimp for the last minute of cooking time. Just keep a close watch to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Oreganata: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic-herb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Lemon-Herb Shrimp Oreganata: Increase the amount of lemon juice and add some chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to the herb mixture.
- Shrimp Scampi Oreganata: Add a tablespoon of butter to the shrimp before baking for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Shrimp Oreganata recipe is a perfect example of a healthy meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and homemade cooking creations. Enjoy this burst of Mediterranean sunshine!