Easy Marry Me Shrimp

This Easy Marry Me Shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic that will captivate your taste buds. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual lunch, this dish offers incredible flavors while being straightforward to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself, this recipe stands out for its rich taste and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just a 20-minute total time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce creates an unforgettable flavor experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for various occasions—be it date night or family dinner—this shrimp dish fits right in.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with protein from shrimp and nutrients from spinach, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Simple Cooking Method: No complicated techniques here—just sautéing and simmering!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious pan allows you to cook the shrimp evenly without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of ingredients for optimal flavor.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping onions and garlic effortless, saving time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

This marry me shrimp recipe is a light and creamy sauce filled with sun dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic!

For the Shrimp

• 1½ lbs shrimp, (peeled, deveined + rinsed)
• 1/2 tsp salt, paprika + Italian herb blend

For the Sauce

• 1 tbs butter
• 1 tbs olive oil
• 1 small onion, (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 1/2 cup white apple vinegar
• 5 oz sun-dried tomatoes, (drained + sliced)
• 1⅓ cups half + half ()*
• salt + pepper, (to taste)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 large handful baby spinach

How to Make Easy Marry Me Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat dry your shrimp with paper towels. Season them all over with the salt, paprika, and Italian herb blend.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Melt the butter and olive oil together.
2. Once hot, add in the seasoned shrimp.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink.
4. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

To the same pan:
1. Add in the diced onion and sauté on medium heat for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. If needed, drizzle some extra oil into the pan.
3. Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the white apple vinegar and add sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1 minute.
5. Mix in half-and-half along with salt, pepper, and grated parmesan cheese.
6. Bring to a simmer while stirring until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Remove the pan from heat:
1. Add baby spinach into the sauce; stir until wilted.
2. Gently fold back in your cooked shrimp to coat them well with the sauce.

Serve your Easy Marry Me Shrimp warm and enjoy this delightful dish!

How to Serve Easy Marry Me Shrimp

Serving Easy Marry Me Shrimp is all about enhancing its flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this creamy shrimp dish.

With Pasta

• Fettuccine or Linguine – Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked pasta for a hearty meal.
• Zoodles – For a lighter option, serve over zucchini noodles to keep it fresh and healthy.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Salad Greens – Place the shrimp on a bed of arugula or spinach for a light, refreshing lunch.
• Caesar Salad – Pair it with classic Caesar salad for an Italian twist.

As a Topping

• Rice Bowls – Serve the shrimp over jasmine or brown rice, adding additional veggies for crunch.
• Baked Potatoes – Use the shrimp mixture as a topping on a baked potato for extra flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Offer warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Crusty Baguette – A sliced baguette can be perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Easy Marry Me Shrimp

To make your Easy Marry Me Shrimp even better, consider these simple tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning – Ensure you season your shrimp generously. This enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Fresh Ingredients – Use fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for vibrant flavors.
• Avoid Overcooking – Cook shrimp just until they turn pink. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
• Simmer Gently – When thickening the sauce, keep the heat low to avoid burning while allowing it to blend well.
• Garnish Wisely – Top with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving for added freshness and color.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Marry Me Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Easy Marry Me Shrimp can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some great options to complement this dish:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crisp texture and bright color to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers a nutritious touch.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli balances well with the rich flavors of the shrimp dish.
5. Lemon Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with lemon zest pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
6. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of seasonal grilled vegetables adds an earthy element to your meal.
7. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
8. Couscous with Herbs – Fluffy couscous tossed in herbs makes for a light yet satisfying accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking shrimp can be simple, but a few common pitfalls can ruin your dish. Here are mistakes to avoid when making Easy Marry Me Shrimp:

• Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to season your shrimp properly before cooking can lead to bland flavor. Always make sure to season thoroughly with salt, paprika, and herbs.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. Aim for just 1-2 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Stale sun-dried tomatoes or wilted spinach will negatively impact the dish. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.

• Neglecting the sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the shrimp well. Allow it to simmer longer to thicken before adding the shrimp.

• Skipping the resting time: Letting the cooked shrimp rest for a minute helps them retain moisture. Don’t rush this step for better texture!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easy Marry Me Shrimp

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 1 month to maintain quality.

Reheating Easy Marry Me Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Marry Me Shrimp:

What makes this dish marry me shrimp?

This dish is named marry me because of its rich, creamy flavor that is sure to impress anyone you serve it to!

Can I substitute other proteins in Easy Marry Me Shrimp?

Yes! You can easily replace shrimp with chicken or turkey for a different twist on this recipe.

How do I make Easy Marry Me Shrimp dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream or any non-dairy milk alternative instead of half-and-half and cheese.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick.

Can I prepare Easy Marry Me Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately; just add cooked shrimp before serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

Easy Marry Me Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!