Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect mix of elegance and ease. You get the deep flavor of simmered tomato sauce enhanced with garlic and herbs, paired with juicy, tender shrimp that cook in minutes. It’s naturally gluten-free, packed with protein, and incredibly versatile. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes—all in one pan.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Crushed tomatoes or chopped fresh tomatoes
• Tomato paste (optional, for a richer sauce)
• Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Optional: white wine, lemon juice, onion

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic (and onion if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and a spoonful of tomato paste if using.
4. Add salt, pepper, oregano, and chili flakes to taste.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer.
7. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
8. Finish with fresh parsley or basil and a splash of lemon juice if desired.
9. Serve hot over pasta, rice, couscous, or with warm crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 people. It takes about 25–30 minutes to make, with most of the time spent simmering the sauce.

Variations

• Make it spicy: Add extra chili flakes or a diced fresh chili.
• Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
• Use wine: Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding the tomatoes for deeper flavor.
• Creamy twist: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy version.
• Switch the protein: Use scallops, firm white fish, or tofu instead of shrimp.
• Add olives or capers: For a Mediterranean-inspired touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. Avoid overcooking the shrimp during reheating. This dish is not recommended for freezing as shrimp can become rubbery once thawed and reheated.

FAQs

How long does Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce last in the fridge?

Up to 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make the sauce ahead, but cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just serve with a gluten-free side if needed.

What tomatoes are best to use?

Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient and flavorful, but fresh ripe tomatoes work too.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end just to warm through, or they’ll become rubbery.

What can I serve this with?

Pasta, rice, couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread all pair beautifully with the sauce.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque, usually in about 2–3 minutes per side.

Can I make it creamy?

Yes, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy variation.

What herbs go well with this?

Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano add brightness and flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With bold garlic and tomato flavors and tender shrimp, it’s a satisfying meal that feels restaurant-quality but takes just minutes to prepare. Whether served over grains or with bread, this one-pan meal is sure to become a favorite.

Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce

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A bold and savory one-pan dish featuring tender shrimp simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce. Perfect served over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread, and ready in just 30 minutes.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 3–4
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Optional: 1/4 cup white wine
• Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped onion

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic (and onion if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, if using.
4. Add salt, pepper, oregano, and chili flakes to taste.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
6. Add shrimp to the pan in a single layer.
7. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
8. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley or basil before serving.
9. Serve hot over pasta, rice, couscous, or with crusty bread.

Notes

• Use thawed, patted-dry frozen shrimp if fresh isn’t available.
• Don’t overcook shrimp—remove them from heat once just cooked through.
• Make the sauce ahead of time and add shrimp just before serving.
• Stir in cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy variation.
• Add olives, spinach, or zucchini for extra Mediterranean flair.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 170mg