Craving a comforting yet vibrant meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This shrimp stew recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and healthy dinner, brimming with fresh flavors and the delightful sweetness of succulent shrimp. It's a simple recipe, ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a delicious, weeknight meal. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It showcases the best of homemade cooking, resulting in a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shrimp broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Build the flavor base: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), shrimp broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add the shrimp: Gently stir in the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
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Finish and serve: Stir in the fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, with crusty bread for dipping, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Stew:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure you have enough space in your pot for the shrimp to cook evenly. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Use high-quality shrimp: The flavor of your stew will be greatly enhanced by using fresh, high-quality shrimp.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. If you prefer a milder stew, omit them altogether.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini, carrots, or spinach. Add them along with the bell pepper.
Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Stew: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with the parsley.
- Spicy Shrimp Stew: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy Shrimp Stew: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious shrimp stew is a perfect example of a healthy and quick meal. It’s a simple recipe, yet provides a fantastic flavor profile that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this easy and satisfying food recipe!