Marinated shrimp baked

Oven-marinated shrimp with garlic sauce

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 4-12 hours
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total: 40-50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who can resist the charm of fresh shrimp, with their delicate texture and unmistakable aroma of the sea? This oven-marinated shrimp recipe is not only simple but also incredibly tasty, transforming a humble ingredient into a true feast. Shrimp, which are high in protein and low in calories, are an excellent choice for a healthy and flavorful dinner.

The history of this recipe is rooted in the countless marine cultures that have explored and adapted seafood dishes. Shrimp are often considered a delicacy and are used in various dishes, from appetizers to main courses. Marinating enhances their flavor and makes them even juicier.

Ingredients:

- 500 g fresh, peeled shrimp
- 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup berry cider (approximately 250 ml)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dried basil (or fresh, if available)
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- Optional: 1-2 cloves of garlic for sauce

Instructions:

1. Preparing the shrimp: Start by washing the shrimp thoroughly under cold running water, ensuring no impurities remain. Once drained, place them in a large bowl. It's important to use fresh shrimp, as they will add authentic flavor to the dish.

2. Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, and basil to the shrimp. The olive oil will add a richness, so generously drizzle it over the shrimp. The berry cider will provide natural sweetness and fruity aroma, so don’t hesitate to add it.

3. Marinating: Mix the ingredients well and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. I recommend letting the shrimp marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but if you have time, it's ideal to leave them overnight. This will allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

4. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a heatproof dish, place the shrimp and all the marinade. Sprinkle the chopped dill on top for added freshness and flavor.

5. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. After this time, remove the dish and gently stir the shrimp to ensure even cooking. Put it back in the oven for another 15 minutes. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.

6. Preparing the garlic sauce: While the shrimp are baking, you can prepare the garlic sauce. Chop 2-3 cloves of garlic and mix them with salt, then dilute with a bit of water and olive oil. You can also add a few drops of lemon for a fresher taste.

7. Serving: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the oven and serve warm, accompanied by the garlic sauce. These oven-marinated shrimp are delicious alongside a fresh green salad or with a side of flavored basmati rice.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve the shrimp in avocado halves for an extravagant and healthy dish.
- You can add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice for a hint of acidity.

Possible Variations:

- Replace the berry cider with white wine for a different flavor.
- Add thin slices of chili pepper to the marinade for a bit of heat.

Nutritional Benefits:

Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, containing few calories, making them ideal for a healthy diet. They are also rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them before marinating for the best results.

2. What other sauces can I serve with shrimp?
Garlic mayonnaise or spicy tomato sauce are excellent options.

3. How can I tell if the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked, and the texture becomes firm yet juicy.

This oven-marinated shrimp recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a romantic dinner to a gathering with friends. Enjoy every bite!