Oven-baked shrimp with tomatoes

Oven-baked shrimp with tomatoes – a simple yet sophisticated dish, perfect for a special dinner or to impress guests in an unexpected way. This oven-baked shrimp recipe is quick, full of flavors, and made with accessible ingredients. It beautifully combines the taste of seafood with the freshness of vegetables, providing a delicious texture and unforgettable flavor. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 300 g fresh or frozen shrimp
- 1 large ripe tomato
- 1 lemon (half for marinating, half for serving)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 medium carrot
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Spices to taste: basil, pepper, vegeta, chopped parsley

Preparing the shrimp:

1. Washing the shrimp: Start by washing the shrimp under a stream of cold water. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to fully thaw them before washing.

2. Seasoning: In a bowl, add the shrimp and season them to your liking. I recommend a delicious combination of basil, vegeta, pepper, and chopped parsley. These will bring a Mediterranean flavor to your dish. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and the juice from half a lemon. Mix well to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the spices.

3. Marinating: Let the shrimp sit in the fridge for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. This step is essential for achieving an intense and savory taste.

Preparing the vegetables:

4. Preparing the vegetables: While the shrimp is marinating, wash the tomato and carrot. Slice the tomato thinly and cut the carrot into rounds or strips, according to your preference. Chop or crush the garlic, depending on your taste.

5. Assembling the dish: In a heat-resistant dish, place the slices of tomato and garlic, then add the carrot rounds. These will add a sweet note and a crunchy texture to your dish. Finally, add the marinated shrimp on top of the vegetables.

Baking:

6. Adding wine: Pour a cup of rosé wine over the dish. This will help enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the dish. If you don't have rosé wine, a dry white wine will work just as well.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the heat-resistant dish inside. Allow the dish to bake for 30 minutes. It is important not to open the oven during baking to ensure the shrimp cook evenly.

Finishing and serving:

8. Serving: After the baking time is up, remove the dish from the oven and drizzle it with the juice from the other half of the lemon. This will add a fresh and vibrant note.

9. Serving suggestion: You can serve the shrimp warm, alongside a side of rice or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette will perfectly complement this dish.

Tips and variations:

- If you desire a more intense flavor, you can add a few dried or fresh chili peppers to the dish, adjusting the spice level.
- Instead of carrot, you can use zucchini or bell pepper, depending on your preference.
- Experiment with other types of fish or seafood, such as squid or white fish, to vary the recipe.

Nutritional benefits:

Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, low in calories and rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. Tomatoes provide a healthy dose of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while garlic is known for its beneficial properties for the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, make sure to fully thaw them before cooking.

2. What type of wine can I use? A dry white wine or a rosé wine are the most suitable, but you can also experiment with other types of wines.

3. How can I store the dish to enjoy later? Shrimp can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 1-2 days, but it is recommended to consume them fresh to maintain the perfect texture.

This oven-baked shrimp with tomatoes recipe is not only delicious but also very easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion. I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!