Shrimp with potatoes and basil
Shrimp with Potatoes and Basil – A Delicious and Sophisticated Recipe
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Shrimp with potatoes and basil is an elegant choice, perfect for a festive meal or a special occasion, such as New Year's Eve. This recipe combines the crispy texture of the potatoes with the intense flavors of marinated shrimp, resulting in a dish that delights all the senses. You can serve this dish alongside a glass of rosé wine, which will further enhance the flavors of your dish.
Ingredients
- 12 peeled shrimp (you can keep the tails for a more appealing presentation)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 5-6 tablespoons of white or rosé wine
- 3 medium potatoes
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves (or parsley, if you prefer)
- 1/2 teaspoon of hot paprika
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- Lemon slices, for serving
A Brief History of the Recipe
Shrimp is a popular ingredient in many cuisines, with a long history often associated with sophisticated dishes. This recipe combines Mediterranean influences, where olive oil, lemon, and basil are commonly used to enhance flavors. The shrimp and potatoes complement each other perfectly, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.
Step by Step
Step 1: Marinating the Shrimp
Start by preparing the marinade for the shrimp. In a bowl, add the peeled shrimp, salt, pepper, crushed garlic, lemon juice, and wine. Mix well, ensuring that all the shrimp are evenly coated with the marinade.
Helpful tips:
- Allow the shrimp to marinate for 30 minutes. This step not only gives them a delicious flavor but also helps tenderize them.
Step 2: Cooking the Potatoes
Meanwhile, place the whole, unpeeled potatoes in a pot of salted water to boil. Cook them on low heat for 10-12 minutes, until they are soft but not fully cooked. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them cool slightly.
Helpful tips:
- If you want the potatoes to be even crispier, you can boil them for 8-10 minutes, so they remain firmer and don’t crumble when sliced.
Step 3: Preparing the Potatoes for the Oven
Once cooled, slice the potatoes into approximately 8 mm thick rounds. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. Arrange the potato slices in the dish, brush them with oil, and then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Baking the Potatoes
Bake the potatoes in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and golden around the edges. Check them occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.
Step 5: Cooking the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade (do not discard it!) and sauté them for about 2 minutes, until they turn pink. Then, add the marinade and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the liquid reduces and thickens slightly.
Step 6: Assembling the Dish
On each slice of potato, place a few sautéed shrimp, drizzling them with the sauce from the skillet. Sprinkle with hot and sweet paprika, to taste, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serving with lemon slices adds a touch of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of rosé wine, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the meal. Additionally, you can add a fresh green salad with cherry tomatoes and a simple vinaigrette to bring a contrast of freshness.
Nutritional Information
This recipe offers a balanced combination of protein from the shrimp, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and healthy fats from the olive oil. Shrimp are an excellent source of omega-3s and protein, while potatoes provide fiber and energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the shrimp with sliced zucchini or eggplant, prepared in the same way.
3. How far in advance can I prepare this dish?
The potatoes can be boiled and sliced a few hours ahead, and the shrimp can be marinated a day in advance to intensify the flavors.
Possible Variations
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can try adding spices like cumin or coriander to the shrimp marinade, or you can replace the basil with dill for a different note.
In conclusion, the shrimp with potatoes and basil recipe is not only a refined choice but also an excellent way to impress your guests. With the right steps and attention to detail, you will create a dish that is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite and take pleasure in the fruits of your labor!
Ingredients: 12 peeled shrimp (tails can be kept if desired) salt freshly ground black pepper 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice 5-6 tablespoons of white or rosé wine 3 medium potatoes 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil fresh basil leaves (or parsley) 1/2 teaspoon of hot paprika 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika lemon slices, for serving
