Shrimp Ala Marinara
Juicy shrimp simmered in a rich tomato and basil sauce, served over spaghetti with cheese, perfect for a flavorful Italian-inspired meal that delights seafood and pasta lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat salad oil in a skillet and brown the minced garlic.
- Add undrained tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, garlic salt, and cooked, shelled, deveined shrimp.
- Cook uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over 1 pound of cooked spaghetti.
- Top with grated cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh garlic and high-quality canned tomatoes. If basil isn't available, dried Italian herbs can be a substitute. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter dish, serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles instead of spaghetti. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp marinara over freshly cooked spaghetti, garnished with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette complements this dish well. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with garlic bread or a glass of white wine. This recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid overcooking the shrimp. You can also microwave it, but be cautious as shrimp can become rubbery if heated too long.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Ala Marinara contains roughly 62 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1762mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for about 15 minutes. Adjust cooking time slightly, as frozen shrimp may release more liquid during cooking.
What can I serve with Shrimp Ala Marinara?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a light side salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a classic Italian dish like Tuna-Rigatoni Salad or even Crab Spaghetti. A glass of chilled white wine also enhances the flavors nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add the shrimp. Cook the spaghetti fresh for the best texture. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).