Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shrimp Oreganata is bursting with bold flavors from garlic, oregano, and white wine. The breadcrumbs, moistened just right, soak up all the delicious juices, making each bite a perfect balance of crispy and tender. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pasta. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste – whether you want more garlic, extra herbs, or a splash of wine, you can adjust the ingredients as needed.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds colossal shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons parsley, minced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- ⅓ cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken stock
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- 6 tablespoons cubed cold butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and position one rack in the middle and another near the top.
- In a medium pan, sauté the garlic in olive oil over medium-low heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add breadcrumbs, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, red pepper, salt, and Parmigiano. Mix well, then remove from heat.
- Arrange shrimp in a baking dish, tail-side up. Top with the breadcrumb mixture, then pour chicken stock and white wine around the shrimp.
- Add butter cubes on top of the shrimp and drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Garlic Lovers: Add extra minced garlic to the breadcrumb mixture for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Wine-Free Version: Omit the white wine and replace it with extra chicken stock or water for a non-alcoholic version.
- More Spice: If you enjoy more heat, increase the crushed red pepper.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover Shrimp Oreganata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. If the breadcrumbs become too dry, add a splash of chicken stock to keep the dish moist.
FAQs
1. Can I use smaller shrimp for Shrimp Oreganata?
Yes, you can use smaller shrimp, but keep in mind that they may cook faster, so reduce the baking time accordingly.
2. Can I make Shrimp Oreganata ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, bake it as directed, possibly adding an extra minute or two.
3. Is it possible to omit the white wine?
Yes, if you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional chicken stock or water.
4. How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Consider adding more garlic or fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the breadcrumb topping for extra flavor.
5. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Frozen shrimp will work, but ensure they are thawed properly before using them in this recipe.
6. How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should be tender but not rubbery.
7. Can I substitute the breadcrumbs?
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute.
8. What side dishes pair well with Shrimp Oreganata?
Serve with pasta, a simple salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
9. Can I make this dish without butter?
While butter adds richness to the dish, you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
10. Can Shrimp Oreganata be made with other seafood?
Yes, this recipe can be used for other seafood like lobster, clams, or scallops for a variation of the classic Oreganata.
Conclusion
Shrimp Oreganata is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a garlicky, herbed breadcrumb topping. It’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress!
