Easy Marry Me Shrimp

This Easy Marry Me Shrimp recipe is sure to impress with its creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish combines rich flavors and simple preparation. The standout qualities of this recipe make it a go-to meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy sauce enriched with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic elevates the shrimp to another level.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or enjoy it as is for a low-carb option.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein from the shrimp and vitamins from the spinach, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients create an eye-catching meal that’s sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking and helps you achieve that perfect sauté on your shrimp.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for consistent cooking.

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, melt the butter and olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add in the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

To the same pan, add in the onion and sauté on medium heat for 3-4 minutes. If you need some oil in the pan, add in a drizzle. Next stir in the garlic for about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add in the white apple vinegar and sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1 minute. Then add in the half + half, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, and mix well. Bring to a simmer and stir for a few minutes to thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Remove the pan from heat and add in the baby spinach along with the cooked shrimp. Stir to coat everything evenly while letting the spinach wilt slightly.

Enjoy your Easy Marry Me Shrimp as an exquisite main course that will surely impress at any gathering!

How to Serve Easy Marry Me Shrimp

Serving Easy Marry Me Shrimp is delightful and versatile. You can elevate the dish with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors while providing a satisfying meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:

With Fresh Pasta

• Homemade Linguine – Pair the shrimp with fresh linguine for a classic Italian touch. Toss the pasta in the creamy sauce for a comforting dish.
• Fettuccine Alfredo – Serve the shrimp over fettuccine alfredo for a rich and creamy meal that will impress.

Over Rice

• Fluffy Jasmine Rice – The light fragrance of jasmine rice complements the shrimp beautifully. Serve it on the side or mix it into the sauce.
• Quinoa Pilaf – For a healthier option, serve Easy Marry Me Shrimp over quinoa pilaf, adding texture and protein to your meal.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes makes for a great contrast to the rich sauce.
• Garlic Bread – Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a crunchy element to your meal.

How to Perfect Easy Marry Me Shrimp

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Easy Marry Me Shrimp, consider these tips. They will help elevate this dish to new heights.

• Bold seasoning – Ensure you season your shrimp well before cooking. The salt, paprika, and Italian herb blend enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Cook shrimp perfectly – Avoid overcooking by monitoring them closely. Shrimp should only take 1–2 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque.
• Use fresh ingredients – Incorporate fresh garlic and quality sun-dried tomatoes for an authentic taste that elevates your dish.
• Adjust creaminess – If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can replace some of the half-and-half with vegetable broth or additional vegetable-based cream alternatives.
• Add more greens – Feel free to include more spinach or other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for added nutrition and flavor.
• Finish with cheese – Grating fresh parmesan cheese on top right before serving adds an extra layer of richness.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Marry Me Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Easy Marry Me Shrimp can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs well with the shrimp’s sauce.
2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and crunch, complementing the rich flavors of the shrimp dish beautifully.
3. Roasted Broccoli – Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness; serve it alongside the shrimp for a nutritious touch.
4. Cauliflower Rice – This low-carb alternative offers a light option that soaks up sauce wonderfully while adding fiber to your meal.
5. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs provides a quick and easy side that contrasts well with the creamy shrimp.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness and pair perfectly with savory dishes like Easy Marry Me Shrimp.
7. Zucchini Noodles – For a lighter option, spiralized zucchini noodles make an excellent base that absorbs all the delicious flavors of your sauce.
8. Caprese Salad – A simple salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers freshness that balances well against richer entrees like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people encounter issues when preparing Easy Marry Me Shrimp. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can make them tough. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can result in bland flavors. Ensure you season both the shrimp and the sauce well for a flavorful dish.
• Not patting dry the shrimp: Wet shrimp won’t sear properly and can steam instead. Always pat them dry with paper towels before cooking.
• Using low-quality sun-dried tomatoes: Low-quality tomatoes can ruin the dish’s flavor. Choose high-quality, packed in oil sun-dried tomatoes for better taste.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: A rushed sauce may not have enough time to thicken properly. Allow the sauce to simmer adequately for rich flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Easy Marry Me Shrimp will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Marry Me Shrimp

• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, for best texture, consume within one month.

Reheating Easy Marry Me Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each burst.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently on medium-low heat in a skillet. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Easy Marry Me Shrimp.

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

To ensure your dish is gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or omit pasta entirely while still enjoying this creamy sauce with shrimp.

Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?

Yes! You can replace shrimp with chicken or turkey for a similar texture and flavor profile that works well with the creamy sauce.

What should I serve with Easy Marry Me Shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Feel free to customize sides based on your preferences.

How spicy is Easy Marry Me Shrimp?

The recipe as is has mild spice due to paprika. For more heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicier seasoning blend.

Final Thoughts

Easy Marry Me Shrimp offers a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress. This versatile dish allows for numerous customization options, from adding different vegetables to swapping proteins. Give it a try and discover how this creamy delight can elevate your next meal!