This Mediterranean shrimp skillet is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and health benefits to your table. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With juicy shrimp, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a feast for the senses. Serve it with your favorite bread or over rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Mediterranean shrimp skillet can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from shrimp and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Flavorful Dish: With the combination of garlic, chili powder, and feta cheese, each bite bursts with Mediterranean flavor.
- Versatile Options: You can easily modify this recipe to suit your dietary preferences by skipping the feta for a dairy-free option.
- Perfectly Balanced Meal: The blend of protein, carbs, and healthy fats makes this dish well-rounded and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather our essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cooking pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cooking pan: A sturdy cooking pan is crucial for evenly cooking the shrimp and vegetables while allowing them to sauté properly.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures you can chop vegetables quickly and safely, saving time during prep.
- Cutting board: Using a cutting board protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
- Spoon or spatula: A good-quality spoon or spatula helps in stirring without damaging the non-stick surface of your pan.
Ingredients
This Mediterranean shrimp skillet recipe is easy to make, healthy, and delicious! Serve with some fresh herbs and bread of choice!
For the Shrimp
- 10oz/280g shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Vegetables
- 2 medium sized ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 zucchini, chopped
- 1 small carrot, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 scallion
For Flavor
- 1-2 tbsp tomato paste (as needed)
- 2 tbsp chopped olives
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp basil, dried
For Finishing Touches
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese or to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
First off, chop tomatoes thinly and add them to a cooking pan with a pinch of salt and some olive oil. Allow the tomatoes to cook down for 2 minutes. By the end they should look like a sauce—this will depend on how juicy your tomatoes are. Another quicker option will be to just blend the tomatoes into a sauce in your blender, then cook with a little bit of olive oil and some salt for about a minute.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Next, add in the zucchini, scallion, and carrot. Cover with a lid and let them cook for 1-2 more minutes until slightly tender.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Throw in the defrosted shrimp along with chili powder, dried basil, and olives. Cook for about 6-7 minutes without a lid, stirring occasionally until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 4: Add Garlic & Thicken Sauce
Then add in minced garlic. If you need to thicken the sauce further, add tomato paste one tablespoon at a time (I needed around two).
Step 5: Finish with Feta & Herbs
Stir in crumbled feta cheese and thinly chopped parsley. Feel free to skip the feta if you prefer a dairy-free option!
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately with some bread, rice or pasta if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Mediterranean shrimp skillet!
How to Serve Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet
This Mediterranean shrimp skillet is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you prefer something light or hearty, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette – A classic option, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Pita Bread – Soft and fluffy, it adds a Middle Eastern touch to your meal.
Over Rice
- Fluffy White Rice – A neutral base that complements the flavors of the shrimp.
- Couscous – Light and quick to prepare, it pairs well with the Mediterranean ingredients.
On Pasta
- Spaghetti or Linguine – Tossed with olive oil, these noodles can absorb the shrimp’s flavor nicely.
- Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles) – A healthier alternative for those looking to reduce carbs while enjoying the dish.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley or Basil – Adds freshness and enhances the overall presentation.
- Lemon Zest – A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the dish and adds a zesty aroma.
How to Perfect Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet
To achieve the best results with your Mediterranean shrimp skillet, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh shrimp will have better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
- Control Cooking Time – Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be opaque and firm but not rubbery.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you cook; feel free to add more chili powder or olives based on your preference.
- Experiment with Vegetables – Feel free to include bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
- Make It Dairy-Free – Skip the feta cheese if you want a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Serve Immediately – This dish tastes best fresh off the stove, so serve it right away for maximum flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet
Pairing your Mediterranean shrimp skillet with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make a colorful and nutritious addition.
- Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad that complements the shrimp perfectly; toss with lemon dressing for an added zing.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that balances out flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a crunchy contrast to the softness of the shrimp.
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – This hearty salad includes chickpeas, parsley, and spices for a filling side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Mediterranean shrimp skillet, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish is perfect every time.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make it tough. Aim for just 6-7 minutes of cooking time.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Always season throughout the cooking process.
- Using unripe tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes provide better flavor for your sauce. Choose bright, firm tomatoes for the best results.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the dish’s aroma and taste. Don’t skip them; add parsley or basil at the end for freshness.
- Not following the steps: Skipping steps can affect the final texture and flavor of your dish. Stick to the instructions for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the shrimp to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Consider separating portions for easy reheating later.
Reheating Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding this Mediterranean shrimp skillet recipe.
Can I use frozen shrimp in my Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
What can I serve with Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet?
Serve it with crusty bread, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
How do I customize this Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet?
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or swap out feta cheese for a vegan option!
Is this Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with protein and vegetables while being low in carbs.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean shrimp skillet is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can customize it according to your taste preferences by adding different vegetables or herbs. Try it out and enjoy a delicious meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table!
Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy shrimp skillet. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also bursting with fresh ingredients. Juicy shrimp are sautéed with ripe tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, and aromatic herbs, creating a colorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive dinner for guests. This Mediterranean shrimp skillet is versatile too; serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside warm bread to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce. You will love how simple it is to prepare this delightful dish!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 10 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 zucchini, chopped
- 1 small carrot, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 scallion
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Chop the tomatoes and sauté them in olive oil with a pinch of salt for about 2 minutes until they soften into a sauce.
- Add chopped zucchini, scallion, and sliced carrot; cover and cook for another 1-2 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in the shrimp along with chili powder and dried basil. Cook uncovered for about 6-7 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Add minced garlic, and if needed, thicken the sauce with tomato paste one tablespoon at a time.
- Finish by stirring in crumbled feta cheese (if using) and chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
