Shrimp Capri Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it’s quick and easy to whip up, yet feels like a fancy restaurant meal thanks to the juicy shrimp and that divine garlic-tomato-basil combo. Plus, the splash of white wine and sprinkle of Parmesan cheese elevate this dish to a whole new level, making it perfect for impressing friends on a cozy night in.

I adore how Shrimp Capri effortlessly mixes simple, fresh flavors with the tender shrimp for an amazing dish. Juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil sing in harmony with the shrimp and make the duet so delightful that I couldn’t help but dance my way through the kitchen.

Add to that a splash of dry white wine, a little lemon juice for tang, and a common kitchen staple, grated Parmesan, and you have a dish that seems to make its own magic.

Ingredients

Shrimp:
Rich in protein, low in calories; has a sweet, mild flavor.

Olive Oil:
Fats that are good for you promote heart health and enhance flavors.

Garlic:
Antioxidant-rich, it contributes a bold and rustic flavor.

Cherry Tomatoes:
Colorful and sweet, delivers a blast of vitamins.

Fresh Basil:
An aromatic herb that adds freshness with notes of anise and mint.

White Wine:
Imparts an extra layer of flavor, with a suggestion of tartness and delicate sweetness.

Lemon Juice:
Adds the bright spark of acid and a citrusy note.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Cooked pasta of choice for serving

Instructions

1. A large skillet over medium heat requires the olive oil to be heated.

2. Incorporate the diced garlic and cook for approximately half a minute until it gives off its good smell.

3. Raise the heat to medium-high and place the shrimp in the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.

4. Take the cooked shrimp out of the pan and set it aside.

5. In the identical skillet, introduce the cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to yield to softness.

6. Add the dry white wine and lemon juice, and combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.

7. Reinsert the shrimp into the skillet and mix with the basil, which has been chopped, in order to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated. The mixing process should take place over medium heat and only consume as much time as it takes for the shrimp to be properly reheated and the basil to become aromatic.

8. Add salt and pepper to taste.

9. Present the shrimp and sauce on a nest of pasta done to al dente perfection.

10. Before serving, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Have fun!

Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Stove
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Measuring spoons
7. Measuring cup
8. Tongs
9. Plate or bowl (for setting aside shrimp)
10. Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
11. Pasta pot (for cooking pasta)

FAQ

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?You can use shrimp that have been frozen, but you must completely thaw them and dry them well before cooking.
• What type of pasta works best with Shrimp Capri?The dish pairs nicely with linguine or angel hair pasta, but any pasta you choose will work well.
• Can I substitute the white wine with anything else?A good substitute for white wine is chicken or vegetable broth.
• Is there a dairy-free option for this dish?Indeed, it is possible to just leave out the Parmesan cheese or to substitute it with a non-dairy cheese alternative.
• How can I add more spice to the dish?To give this dish a gentle kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic when you are sautéing it.
• Can this dish be made ahead of time?Enjoy it fresh, but you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and then cook just before serving.
• What if I don’t have fresh basil?Substituting dried basil for fresh is an option, yet the flavor of the dish shines when using fresh basil.

Substitutions and Variations

For shrimp: Replace with diced chicken breast or firm tofu for a non-seafood version.
Instead of using olive oil, try using avocado oil or melted butter for different flavor profiles.
For cherry tomatoes: Substitute with grape tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes for convenience.
For fresh basil leaves: To make a slight change to the flavor, use fresh spinach or arugula.
To replace dry white wine: Use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic alternative.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Basil and Garlic For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves and freshly minced garlic. Fresh herbs and garlic add a vibrant and aromatic quality that enhances the overall dish.

2. Deglaze with White Wine After the cherry tomatoes have softened, deglaze the pan with the white wine by scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth to the sauce.

3. Control the Heat Be mindful of the heat when cooking the shrimp to avoid overcooking. They should just turn pink and opaque, which indicates they are perfectly cooked and tender.

4. Choose Quality Parmesan Use high-quality Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-grated cheese often contains preservatives that can affect the flavor and texture.

5. Reserve Pasta Water Before draining the pasta, reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water. Add a splash to the sauce if needed to achieve the desired consistency and help the sauce adhere to the pasta.