Welcome to another delicious recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends! Today, we are diving into the rich and savory world of Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs. This dish is not just about the creamy sauce; it’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this shrimp dish is the perfect fit. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of seafood, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs recipe is a must-try. Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this dish:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of milk and cornstarch creates a luscious sauce that perfectly coats the shrimp, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Healthy Protein Source: Shrimp are low in calories but high in protein, making this dish a nutritious option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with a slice of your favorite bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
- Flavorful Seasoning: The blend of garlic, black pepper, and Italian herbs provides an aromatic experience that elevates this dish to the next level.
This recipe is not only delicious but also very adaptable. You can easily modify the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. So, let’s dive into why you should give this dish a try!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Trying new recipes can be a thrilling culinary adventure, and this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs is no exception. Here are compelling reasons to make it tonight:
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you won’t have to make an extra trip to the grocery store. Just grab some shrimp and you’re set!
- Impressive Presentation: The creamy sauce and vibrant colors of the dish make for a stunning presentation, perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party.
- Customizable: Want to spice things up? Add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or throw in some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish; it’s mild enough for picky eaters but flavorful enough to satisfy gourmet palates.
- Meal Prep Friendly: If you’re looking to meal prep, this dish refrigerates well and can be reheated without losing its creamy allure.
With all these fantastic benefits, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on the delicious journey of making Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs.
Ingredients and Utensils Needed
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Recommended Utensils
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for the cornstarch slurry
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping garlic and parsley)
Detailed Recipe Steps
Now that we have all our ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the preparation process for our Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs.
- Create the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of the milk to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce later. Set aside.
- Heat the Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it provides a base for our dish.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they start to turn pink. This is a key step; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
- Season with Herbs: Sprinkle in the black pepper and Italian herbs, stirring to combine. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Pour in the Milk: Pour in the remaining milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic begins!
- Add the Cornstarch Slurry: Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. You want a creamy consistency that clings to the shrimp.
- Final Seasoning: Season with salt to taste and remove from heat. Make sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Serve the creamy garlic shrimp over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color.
Here are some practical tips:
- Always ensure your shrimp are fresh or properly thawed if frozen. This makes a significant difference in texture and flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking process. Allow the garlic to infuse the oil before adding the shrimp for maximum flavor.
- For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic before adding the shrimp.
Tips and Variations
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some tips and variations to customize your dish:
Alternative Ingredients
- Vegan Option: Substitute shrimp with tofu or plant-based shrimp alternatives. Use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but make sure that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free if you have severe allergies.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus for added nutrition and color.
- Different Proteins: Try chicken or scallops instead of shrimp for a different take on this recipe.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Overcooking Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp; they only need a few minutes to cook. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Burning Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so sauté it over medium heat and ensure to stir continuously.
- Too Much Salt: Always start with a small amount of salt and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Nutritional Values and Benefits
Understanding the nutritional benefits of our ingredients is essential. Here’s what you can expect from each serving of Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs:
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
Ingredient Benefits
- Shrimp: A lean source of protein and packed with nutrients like iodine and omega-3 fatty acids, shrimp is a heart-healthy choice.
- Garlic: Known for its health benefits, garlic has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
- Milk: A great source of calcium and vitamin D, contributing to strong bones and overall health.
- Italian Herbs: These herbs not only add flavor but are also rich in antioxidants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You could also serve it on a bed of sautéed vegetables for a low-carb option.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can portion the creamy garlic shrimp into meal prep containers and refrigerate for quick lunches or dinners.
What can I substitute for shrimp in this recipe?
You can substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu for a vegan version of this dish.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs can be used! Just remember that fresh herbs are more potent, so you may want to use about three times the quantity of dried herbs for a similar flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Milk, Cornstarch, Black Pepper, and Italian Herbs is a delightful dish that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, feel free to share it with your friends! Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, feel free to check out my Pinterest page here. You can also explore other great seafood recipes like Butter Masala Shrimp and Zesty Shrimp. Enjoy your culinary adventures!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of the milk to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce later. Set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they start to turn pink.
- Sprinkle in the black pepper and Italian herbs, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the remaining milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt to taste and remove from heat.
- Serve the creamy garlic shrimp over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
