Go Back

Shrimp Marinara with White Wine

This shrimp marinara features a bright, layered sauce enhanced with a splash of white wine, providing a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the shrimp. The dish is cooked quickly using sautéing and simmering techniques, resulting in tender shrimp coated in a glossy, flavorful tomato and wine-based sauce. It’s an elegant yet straightforward dish, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner with a touch of sophistication.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp deveined, peeled, tails on
  • 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes preferably San Marzano
  • ¼ cup white wine dry and crisp
  • 2 tbsp olive oil good quality, extra virgin
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley for finishing
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to gently ripple, filling your kitchen with a fragrant grassy aroma.
  2. Add the thinly sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and golden around the edges—be careful not to burn it, as bitter burnt garlic can ruin the flavor.
  3. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer gently for 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the wine to reduce slightly, filling the air with a bright, aromatic scent.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and develops a rich, glossy appearance.
  5. While the sauce simmers, season the shrimp with salt and pepper—then add them in a single layer to the skillet, pressing gently to ensure contact with the hot oil.
  6. Sear the shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn a vibrant pink and start to curl, then flip them over with your spoon for another 2 minutes until they’re just cooked through—tender, juicy, and firm to the touch.
  7. Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, gently toss in chopped herbs and stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for about 1 minute.
  8. Taste the sauce and adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. The sauce should be glossy and coat the back of a spoon, with a fresh aroma of garlic, tomato, and wine.
  9. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, spooning generous portions of the glossy, fragrant sauce topped with tender shrimp and fresh herbs.

Notes

Use fresh, good-quality ingredients for the best flavor. The key is to cook the garlic carefully and to simmer the sauce until glossy for a rich, cohesive dish.