Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices? Then look no further! This shrimp and filet mignon recipe is the perfect answer for a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy dinner. It’s a fantastic option for a romantic night in, a special occasion, or simply a weeknight treat when you want to impress yourself and your loved ones. This recipe balances the richness of the filet mignon with the delicate sweetness of the shrimp, creating a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners to a whole new level!
Ingredients:
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For the Filet Mignon:
- 2 (6-ounce) filet mignon steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
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For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Preparing the Filet Mignon:
- Pat the steaks dry: This is crucial for a good sear. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the surface of the filet mignon steaks.
- Season generously: Season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper.
- Sear the steaks: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
- Add aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter, garlic, and rosemary to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for about 2 minutes.
- Finish in the oven (optional): For a more evenly cooked steak, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and cook for another 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy; 130-135°F is ideal for medium-rare.
Preparing the Shrimp:
- Season the shrimp: In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Sauté the shrimp: While the filet mignon is cooking in the oven (or resting after searing), heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
Serving:
Let the filet mignon rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Serve the sliced filet mignon alongside the sautéed shrimp. A simple side salad or roasted vegetables would complement this dish beautifully.
Cooking Tips:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the steaks and shrimp, ensure there's enough space in the pan to allow for proper browning. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let the steak rest: Allowing the steak to rest is crucial for a juicy and tender result.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp or steak seasoning for a little heat.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano instead of rosemary.
- Garlic butter sauce: For an extra decadent touch, create a garlic butter sauce by whisking together melted butter, minced garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the steaks and shrimp, and any added ingredients. However, a reasonable estimate for one serving would be:
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 40-50g
- Fat: 30-40g
This shrimp and filet mignon recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy creating this delicious meal in your own kitchen!