Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp
Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp Recipe
Introduction
Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes and cilantro with succulent shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special dinner with friends and family.
History
This recipe is inspired by traditional Mexican and Mediterranean flavors, where tomatoes and cilantro are commonly used in cooking. The combination of these ingredients with shrimp creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- In a large nonstick saucepan or wok, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the garlic and stir for two minutes until fragrant.
- Raise the heat to medium, add the tomato concentrate, and stir for two more minutes.
- Turn the heat back down to low, add the fresh tomato puree, and stir to combine.
- Simmer, covered, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Turn the heat to high.
- Add the tabasco, pepper, salt, half of the chopped cilantro, and the shrimp.
- Stir constantly until the shrimp is cooked through, around five minutes.
- With shell-on shrimp, the shells will turn from transparent to pink when done.
- Sprinkle the shrimp with the remaining cilantro and serve with a French baguette.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Butterflying the shrimp helps them cook more evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of tabasco to suit your spice preference.
- Serve the dish with a side of rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp over a bed of rice or pasta, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would also make a great accompaniment.
Cooking Techniques
Butterflying the shrimp helps them cook quickly and evenly.
- Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, savory taste.
- Stirring constantly when adding the shrimp ensures they cook through evenly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option.
- Substitute canned diced tomatoes for fresh tomatoes if they are not in season.
- Use parsley or basil in place of cilantro if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
The sauce for Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce and add the shrimp when ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp with additional chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in individual bowls or on a platter for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A light and refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette would also complement the flavors of the shrimp.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp contains approximately 250 calories, making it a light and healthy meal option.
Carbohydrates
This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
The butter in this recipe adds richness and flavor to the dish. Each serving contains approximately 12 grams of fat.
Proteins
Shrimp is a great source of protein, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option. Each serving contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and folate. Cilantro is a good source of vitamin K and antioxidants. This dish provides a good dose of essential vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before preparing this dish.
Summary
Overall, Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp is a nutritious and balanced meal option, providing a good mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner with friends and family. With its fresh and vibrant flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. As soon as I walked into her house, the aroma of garlic and cilantro filled the air.
She greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, then gestured towards the stove where a pot of bubbling shrimp sat simmering in a rich tomato sauce. I watched in awe as Maria moved gracefully around the kitchen, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that, her hands moving with the confidence of someone who had made this dish countless times before.
I asked her where she learned to make such a delicious meal, and she simply replied, "Oh, this recipe has been passed down through generations in my family. It's a traditional dish from my hometown in Mexico."
I was immediately intrigued and begged her to teach me how to make it. Maria laughed and handed me a pen and paper, telling me to write down each step as she explained them. And so, I began to learn the secrets of Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp.
The first step was to marinate the shrimp in a mixture of garlic, lime juice, and salt for at least 30 minutes. This would help to infuse the shrimp with flavor and tenderize them before cooking. Maria explained that the acidity of the lime juice would also help to balance out the richness of the tomato sauce.
Next, we moved on to the sauce. Maria heated a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet and added diced onions and jalapenos, sautéing them until they were soft and fragrant. She then added minced garlic and let it cook for a minute or so, until it became golden brown and aromatic.
Once the aromatics were ready, Maria poured in a can of crushed tomatoes and a splash of chicken broth, stirring everything together until it formed a rich and flavorful base for the shrimp. She seasoned the sauce with cumin, paprika, and a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
As the sauce simmered and thickened, Maria added the marinated shrimp, along with a handful of fresh cilantro leaves. She let everything cook together for a few minutes, until the shrimp were pink and opaque and the sauce had reduced slightly.
Finally, Maria spooned the Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice and garnished it with more fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. The dish looked and smelled absolutely divine, and I couldn't wait to dig in.
As we sat down to eat, Maria shared stories of her childhood in Mexico, of the vibrant markets and bustling streets, of her mother and grandmother cooking together in the kitchen. She told me how this recipe had been a favorite in her family for as long as she could remember, and how she had made it for countless special occasions and family gatherings.
As I took my first bite of the Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and comforting memories. The sweetness of the tomatoes, the heat of the jalapenos, the freshness of the cilantro – it was a perfect balance of ingredients that danced on my taste buds.
I thanked Maria profusely for sharing her family recipe with me, and she simply smiled and patted my hand, saying, "Recipes are meant to be shared, my dear. It's how we keep our traditions alive and our memories close to our hearts."
And so, I left Maria's house that day with a full stomach and a happy heart, armed with a new recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come. Tomato-Cilantro Shrimp – a dish that had been passed down through generations, bringing with it the warmth and love of a family that cherished good food and good company above all else.
Categories
| Cilantro Recipes | Shrimp Recipes | Tomato Paste Recipes | Tomato Recipes |