Shrimp in Parmesan Cream Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

• Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
• Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

3. Add Parmesan and Basil:

• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts into the sauce. Add the dried basil and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

4. Combine and Serve:

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to reheat the shrimp.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Pro Tips:

• Creamy Perfection: For an extra creamy sauce, add an extra splash of cream or more Parmesan.
• Extra Flavor: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

This Shrimp in Parmesan Cream Sauce is a luxurious, yet easy-to-make dish. The rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce perfectly complements the tender shrimp, creating a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes!