Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a vibrant, spicy Italian dish that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. This dish features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich tomato sauce, infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. Its deep red sauce contrasts beautifully with the pink shrimp, creating a visually inviting meal that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The dish’s one-pan preparation makes it simple to serve yet impressive enough to delight guests.
Why We Love This Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
This recipe combines the best of Italian flavors in a quick, one-pan dish that packs a punch. The shrimp remain tender and juicy while absorbing the vibrant tomato sauce, making every bite flavorful. You’ll appreciate how the crushed red pepper adds just enough heat to awaken your taste buds without overpowering the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every bit of sauce. Its simplicity, combined with restaurant-quality taste, makes it a dish you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients for Shrimp Fra Diavolo
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails attached
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice)
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 15-ounce can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Start by preparing the shrimp. Pat them dry to ensure a nice sear and season lightly with kosher salt and half of the red pepper flakes. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the shrimp. Sear for just under a minute on each side until they begin to turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside, leaving the juices in the skillet for flavor.
Next, add the remaining olive oil to the pan and heat over medium-high until shimmering. Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for about five minutes, stirring regularly, until the onions soften and turn golden without burning the garlic. Pour in the white wine and allow it to reduce by half, which concentrates the flavor and adds a subtle acidity to the sauce.
Add the diced fire-roasted tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and the remaining red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Allow it to thicken over ten minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should be rich, deep red, and slightly chunky.
Return the shrimp to the skillet, nestling them into the simmering sauce. Cook for an additional minute until the shrimp are fully warmed through and pink. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley over the dish to add brightness and freshness. Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at their best.
How to Serve Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Shrimp Fra Diavolo is versatile and can be served in several ways. Traditional pasta such as linguine or spaghetti works beautifully, allowing the sauce to coat each strand. For a lighter option, serve it over steamed rice or cauliflower rice to soak up the rich tomato flavors. If you prefer a rustic approach, a crusty baguette or Italian bread makes an excellent companion, perfect for dipping into the sauce. Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon to enhance the flavors and make the presentation more inviting. This dish is ideal for family dinners, date nights, or even small dinner parties, as it combines elegance with ease of preparation.
Expert Tips for Shrimp Fra Diavolo
To achieve perfect shrimp every time, avoid overcooking; they should be just opaque and tender. If you like a spicier sauce, adjust the crushed red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers during the sauté stage. Using fire-roasted tomatoes rather than plain diced tomatoes adds depth and a subtle smoky flavor. Always simmer the sauce slowly to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken properly. For added richness, drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over the finished dish before serving. You can also make the tomato sauce a day ahead, then quickly cook the shrimp just before serving, which saves time without compromising flavor.
How to Store Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain the best texture. The shrimp should be consumed within one to two days, while the sauce can last slightly longer. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid reheating shrimp at high temperatures for too long, as this can make them tough. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy the dish again without losing its fresh, bold flavors.
Variations of Shrimp Fra Diavolo
You can customize this recipe in several ways to suit your taste. For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the sauce before adding the shrimp. For a more vegetable-forward meal, include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the onion and garlic sauté. If you prefer a milder spice, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them entirely and add a pinch of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. Shrimp Fra Diavolo also works well with other seafood like scallops or firm white fish, giving you flexibility to experiment while keeping the Italian flair intact.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Fra Diavolo
What is Shrimp Fra Diavolo?
Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a classic Italian dish featuring shrimp cooked in a spicy, flavorful tomato sauce. The name “Fra Diavolo” translates to “Brother Devil,” referring to the heat of the dish.
How can I make Shrimp Fra Diavolo less spicy?
Reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add a small amount of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the heat.
Can I prepare Shrimp Fra Diavolo ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the tomato sauce a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and cook the shrimp just before serving for best results.
What should I serve with Shrimp Fra Diavolo?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. You can also serve it over polenta or alongside steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
How do I reheat leftovers without overcooking the shrimp?
Remove the shrimp from the sauce and gently reheat the sauce on low heat. Add the shrimp back just before serving to prevent them from becoming tough.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Serve the shrimp and sauce over gluten-free pasta or rice to keep it fully gluten-free.
Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails attached
- kosher salt to taste
- 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes adjust for spice
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 15-ounce can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry, season with kosher salt and half of the red pepper flakes. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and sear for just under a minute on each side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet and heat until shimmering. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for about five minutes until softened.
- Pour in white wine and reduce by half to concentrate flavors. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato paste, seasoning with salt, black pepper, oregano, and remaining red pepper flakes.
- Bring sauce to a gentle boil, then lower heat to a simmer for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return shrimp to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until shrimp are warmed through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
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