Catalan-Style Shrimp (Gamberi alla Catalana)
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (large, peeled) | 800g |
| Arugula (fresh) | 50g |
| Red onions | 200g |
| Cherry tomatoes | 200g |
| White wine vinegar | 5g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 40g |
| Fresh basil leaves | To taste |
| Fine salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information:
(Nutritional values are approximations per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Instructions
To prepare Catalan-Style Shrimp, also known as Gamberi alla Catalana, follow these step-by-step instructions for a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect as an appetizer for a dinner gathering or a summer meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Red Onion
Begin by prepping the red onions. Peel off the outer layers and slice them into thin rings. Place the sliced onions in a bowl, then cover them with cold water. Add 5g of white wine vinegar to the water to give the onions a delicate, tangy flavor and allow them to soak for about 10 minutes. This step will help mellow the sharpness of the onions while enhancing their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Prep the Cherry Tomatoes
While the onions are soaking, wash the cherry tomatoes under cold water. Slice them in half, and place them into a small bowl. Add a pinch of salt to the tomatoes, followed by a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (about 5-10g). Gently toss the tomatoes to coat them evenly with the seasoning. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves at this stage, tearing them into smaller pieces by hand to release their aromatic oils. Set the tomatoes aside to marinate briefly.
Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp
Next, it’s time to prepare the shrimp. If they are not already peeled, gently remove the shells and heads. Use a sharp knife to make a small incision along the back of each shrimp and, using tweezers or your fingers, carefully remove the dark vein running through the body. Once cleaned, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
To assemble the dish, start by placing a bed of fresh arugula on each serving plate. The peppery flavor of the arugula will balance perfectly with the sweetness of the shrimp and the tanginess of the marinated onions and tomatoes.
Next, strain the red onion slices from the vinegar water and scatter them over the arugula. You can arrange the onions neatly, or leave them slightly askew for a more rustic presentation.
Add the shrimp on top of the arugula and onion mixture, arranging them evenly across the plates. Then, spoon the marinated cherry tomatoes and their juices over the shrimp, ensuring each bite gets a taste of the tomatoes’ tangy sweetness.
Step 5: Drizzle with Olive Oil & Serve
Finish the dish by drizzling a little extra virgin olive oil over the top, and if desired, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves. A light sprinkle of fine salt can be added at this point to enhance the flavors. Serve immediately, while the shrimp are fresh, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this refreshing Catalan-inspired dish.
Cooking Tips:
- Choosing Shrimp: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before preparing.
- Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant and slightly peppery taste, but if basil is not available, parsley can be substituted for a similar effect.
- Marinating Time: While marinating the tomatoes is not mandatory, allowing them to sit for a few minutes enhances the flavor and infuses the olive oil with the tomato juices.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a chilled white wine or a crisp rosΓ©. It’s also great alongside fresh crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Catalan-style shrimp recipe is an easy yet sophisticated dish that combines the sweetness of fresh shrimp with the tanginess of marinated red onions and tomatoes. The fresh basil adds a fragrant touch, while the peppery arugula base provides a perfect contrast to the richness of the shrimp. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a light meal, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that will make any occasion feel special.
Ideal for those looking for a refreshing, Mediterranean-inspired appetizer, these shrimp are quick to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, making them a go-to recipe for your next meal.
