Tuscan Butter Shrimp
A delightful and vibrant Italian dish with creamy richness, fresh cherry tomatoes, and spinach, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed Juicy, tender shrimp are the stars of this dish.
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil This golden elixir adds a fruity richness.
- Kosher salt Kosher salt Essential for seasoning.
- freshly ground black pepper freshly ground black pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the sauce
- 3 Tbsp butter Adds a luxurious creaminess.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and slightly sweet, a must for any Italian dish.
- 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes Burst with sweetness, adding color and flavor.
- 3 cups baby spinach Adding a nutritious touch.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream For a decadent, creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan Rich and nutty, elevates the dish.
- 1/4 cup basil, thinly sliced Provides a fresh pop.
- Lemon wedges Lemon wedges, for serving (optional) A zesty squeeze brightens the dish.
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Wait until it shimmers, signaling it's hot.
- Season the shrimp all over with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and sear until the underside is golden—about 2 minutes. Flip and cook until opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium, toss in the butter, and melt it. Stir in the minced garlic, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes begin to burst.
- Toss in the baby spinach and let it wilt, bringing a lovely green vibrancy to the sauce.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sliced basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer until slightly reduced, about 3 minutes.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, stir gently, and cook until heated through. Garnish with fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Notes
Ensure even cooking by not overcrowding the skillet when searing the shrimp. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Allow the sauce to gently thicken for enhanced richness.