Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
Dive into a vibrant and spicy dish with Shrimp Fra Diavolo, a classic Italian favorite that’s both bold and satisfying. This recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty tomato sauce infused with garlic, white wine, and a kick of red pepper flakes.
The combination of fresh herbs like basil and parsley adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the rich, spicy sauce. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, Shrimp Fra Diavolo brings a taste of Italy to your table with every delicious bite. Enjoy the perfect blend of heat and flavor in this delectable dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Bold and Flavorful: The combination of crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, and oregano creates a rich, spicy sauce with deep layers of flavor. The heat from the red pepper adds a satisfying kick, while the wine and tomatoes balance the sauce with acidity and richness.
Quick and Easy: Despite its complex flavors, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. The shrimp cook quickly, and the sauce is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Fresh, Bright Ingredients: The fresh parsley and basil add a burst of color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the rich tomato sauce, elevating the overall flavor profile and making each bite refreshing.
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: The shrimp are tender, succulent, and just the right texture, not overcooked or rubbery. They absorb the sauce beautifully, making them a delicious centerpiece of the dish.
Customizable Heat: The level of spiciness can easily be adjusted to personal taste by varying the amount of red pepper flakes, making this dish appealing to both those who love a fiery kick and those who prefer a milder flavor.
Impressive Yet Simple: Shrimp Fra Diavolo is an elegant dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or a special dinner at home, but it’s also simple enough for anyone to make, even for those new to cooking.
Comforting and Satisfying: The dish offers a perfect balance of heat, savory tomato sauce, and tender shrimp, making it satisfying without being too heavy. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal.
Key Ingredients:
Large Shrimp – Peeled and deveined, these are the star of the dish, providing a tender, succulent protein.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds the signature heat to the sauce, giving the dish its spicy kick.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the shrimp and onions, contributing richness and flavor.
Diced Tomatoes – Provide a flavorful base for the sauce with a touch of acidity and sweetness.
White Wine – Adds depth and complexity to the sauce, balancing the flavors of the tomatoes and spices.
Garlic – Freshly chopped, garlic brings aromatic richness and depth to the dish.
Dried Oregano – Imparts an earthy, savory flavor that complements the shrimp and tomato sauce.
Fresh Parsley & Basil – These herbs add brightness, freshness, and a burst of color to finish the dish.
Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined
1 teaspoon salt, plus additional as needed
1 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper flakes
3 tablespoons olive oil, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons
1 medium onion, sliced
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 cup dry white wine
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
3 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
3 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of salt and the crushed red pepper flakes.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and sauté for about 1 minute.
Turn the shrimp and continue cooking until they are just cooked through, approximately 1 to 2 minutes more.
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Make the Sauce:
Add the sliced onion to the same skillet. If needed, add 1 to 2 tablespoons more olive oil.
Cook the onion until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, white wine, chopped garlic, and dried oregano.
Let the mixture simmer until it slightly thickens, which should take about 10 minutes.
Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp and any juices from the plate back into the skillet with the tomato sauce.
Toss to coat the shrimp with the sauce and cook for about 1 minute to let the flavors combine.
Finish and Serve:
Mix in the chopped parsley and basil.
Adjust the seasoning with additional salt if necessary. Serve immediately.
Notes:
Shrimp Preparation:
Peeled and deveined shrimp are essential for ease of eating and to avoid any gritty texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
Adjusting Spice Level:
Red pepper flakes can be adjusted based on your spice tolerance. For a milder dish, use less, or for extra heat, add more.
Cooking Shrimp:
Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery. Since shrimp cook quickly, they should only need 1-2 minutes per side.
Oil and Sautéing:
Use extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor. If the skillet is dry, add the extra 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil as needed to sauté the onions properly.
Deglazing the Pan:
After sautéing the shrimp, the fond (brown bits) left in the pan can add extra depth of flavor to the sauce. Make sure to scrape these up when adding the tomatoes and wine.
Simmering the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce to concentrate flavors. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and melding the flavors together.
Fresh Herbs:
Adding fresh parsley and basil at the end helps to preserve their vibrant flavors and aroma. For a more robust herb flavor, you can add some basil leaves earlier in the cooking process.
Wine Choice:
Use a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The wine adds acidity and complexity to the sauce, balancing the heat from the red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions:
Shrimp Fra Diavolo pairs wonderfully with pasta like linguine or spaghetti. It also complements crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Leftovers:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp. The dish can be slightly spicier the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 300 | Total Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 290mg | Sodium: 950mg | Total Carbohydrates: 10g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 6g | Protein: 35g
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 to avoid excess moisture that could affect the cooking process.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth, or add a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
For a non-alcoholic option, use white grape juice with a bit of lemon juice.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to make the dish milder.
You can also omit them entirely if you prefer no heat.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs. For dried oregano, use about 1 teaspoon.
Note that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less compared to fresh herbs.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving to avoid overcooking.
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before adding the shrimp.
What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Long pasta like linguine or spaghetti works well, as it can be easily twirled and coated with the sauce. You can also use other pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne if preferred.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
This dish may become spicier as the flavors meld.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.
Add them when you sauté the onions for best results.
What can I use instead of Italian parsley?
Fresh cilantro or chives can be used as substitutes if you don’t have Italian parsley.
Each will impart a slightly different flavor.
How do I ensure the shrimp is cooked perfectly?
Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 1-2 minutes per side.
Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery if cooked too long.