Italian Roasted Shrimp

Italian Roasted Shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of Italy to your table. With succulent shrimp coated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning, this recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or a versatile addition to any meal.

The shrimp are roasted to perfection, delivering a deliciously seasoned, tender bite that pairs beautifully with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings, this dish showcases how easy it is to create restaurant-quality flavors at home.

Italian Roasted Shrimp

Ingredients:

1 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp minced garlic (about 4-5 cloves)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.

Coat Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil mixture over the shrimp and toss them to ensure they are evenly coated. Spread the shrimp out in a single layer and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Roast: Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, depending on their size, or until they are opaque and pink. For specific cooking times by shrimp size, refer to the “Shrimp Cooking Times” section.

Serve: Enjoy the shrimp with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, or incorporate them into another dish.

Notes:

Shrimp Size: Cooking times can vary based on the size of the shrimp. Larger shrimp may need closer to 12 minutes, while smaller ones might cook in 8 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring the shrimp are opaque and pink.

Even Cooking: Make sure to spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can cause uneven roasting.

Seasoning Variations: Feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning according to your taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.

Prepping Ahead: The shrimp can be coated with the seasoning mixture and refrigerated up to 1 hour before roasting. This allows the flavors to marinate.

Nonstick Cooking Spray: If you don’t have nonstick cooking spray, you can brush the foil with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions: These roasted shrimp are great as an appetizer, tossed into pasta, or added to salads. They also pair well with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Alternative Cooking Methods: For a different texture, you can cook the shrimp on a grill or in a skillet. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better results.

How can I tell when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink.

They should also curl into a C shape.

Overcooking can make them tough, so keep an eye on them during the roasting process.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

It’s best to use raw shrimp for this recipe, as pre-cooked shrimp will not benefit from the roasting process and may become overcooked.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce into the olive oil mixture.

Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Can I use a different seasoning blend?

Yes, you can experiment with different seasoning blends or herbs such as paprika, cumin, or fresh parsley.

Customize the seasoning to fit your taste preferences.

How can I make the shrimp more flavorful?

Marinate the shrimp in the olive oil and seasoning mixture for 15-30 minutes before roasting to enhance the flavor.

Just be sure not to over-marinate, as the acid can affect the texture.

Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp by coating them with the olive oil and seasoning mixture and refrigerating them for up to 1 hour before roasting.

This helps the flavors meld together.

What should I serve with this dish?

Italian roasted shrimp are versatile and pair well with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.

They can also be served as an appetizer or added to other dishes.

Can I roast the shrimp on a grill instead?

Yes, you can grill the shrimp.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn opaque and pink.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover roasted shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat them gently to avoid overcooking.

You can also freeze them for up to 3 months if needed.