Spianatine with Shrimp, Garlic, and Chili

Introduction

In the world of culinary delights, few appetizers encapsulate the essence of simplicity and bold flavors as beautifully as Spianatine with Shrimp, Garlic, Olive Oil, and Chili. This dish embodies the vibrant Mediterranean spirit, blending fresh seafood with aromatic herbs and spices on a crispy flatbread canvas. Perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quick yet indulgent snack, this recipe stands out for its straightforward preparation and layered flavors. At Love With Recipes, we aim to bring you recipes that are not only delicious but also inspire confidence in the kitchen. This particular creation is a testament to that philosophy—easy to make, bursting with flavor, and versatile enough for various occasions.

Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Serving platter
• Spatula or cooking spoon
• Toothpick or small spoon for spreading
• Optional: Tongs for handling flatbreads

Tags

• Seafood
• Appetizer
• Quick recipe
• Mediterranean cuisine
• Gluten-free option
• Spicy

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 12 individual Spianatine, making it perfect for a small gathering or dinner party.

Difficulty Level

Easy — Suitable for beginners and experienced cooks alike, this recipe requires minimal culinary skills but delivers maximum flavor.

Allergen Information

• Shellfish: Shrimp
• Gluten: Flatbreads (check specific brand for gluten content)
• Garlic and chili: Potential allergens for sensitive individuals

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flatbreads or base
• Pescatarian: Suitable for pescatarian diets
• Vegan: Not suitable due to shrimp and garlic

Course

Appetizer / Starter

Cuisine

Mediterranean / Italian-inspired

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring they are fresh and ready to use. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already prepared. Rinse the shrimp under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for removing any residual impurities and ensuring a clean, fresh flavor in your dish.

Next, wash the fresh chili pepper thoroughly to remove any dirt or residues. Using a sharp knife, slice the chili thinly to maximize its flavor release and visual appeal. Thin slices allow the heat and flavor of the chili to disperse evenly across the dish, creating an optimal balance of spice and aroma.

Peel the garlic clove and set aside. You may choose to finely chop or crush the garlic depending on your preference. For this recipe, slicing the garlic into thin slivers will allow for a more aromatic release during cooking, but crushing it can also intensify the flavor.

Gather your flatbreads and prepare a clean workspace for assembling the dish.

2. Cooking the aromatic base

Place a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil into the pan—approximately 2 to 3 tablespoons, enough to coat the bottom of the skillet evenly. Allow the oil to warm up but not smoke, ensuring a gentle and flavorful cooking environment.

Add the sliced garlic to the skillet. Let the garlic sizzle gently, stirring occasionally. This process should take about 1-2 minutes. The goal is to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color, which indicates the garlic has released its aromatic oils and is ready to impart its flavor to the other ingredients. Be cautious not to burn the garlic; burnt garlic can develop a bitter taste that detracts from the dish.

Once the garlic is golden and fragrant, add the sliced fresh chili pepper to the skillet. Stir the mixture gently to combine. The chili slices will begin to soften and release their spicy aroma, infusing the olive oil with a fiery undertone. Cook the mixture for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the chili is tender but not overly cooked, preserving its vibrant flavor and color.

3. Cooking the shrimp

With the aromatic base ready, add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet. Gently stir to coat the shrimp evenly with the garlic-chili-infused oil. Spread the shrimp out in a single layer to promote even cooking. Cook the shrimp for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn opaque and pink. The shrimp should be tender and succulent, with a slight bounce when pressed.

Season the shrimp with fine salt to taste. The salt enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and balances the spiciness of the chili. Be mindful not to over-salt, as the flatbreads and other ingredients will also contribute to the overall flavor profile.

Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and set aside. The shrimp mixture is now ready to be assembled onto the flatbreads.

4. Assembling the spianatine

Lay out the La Bottega di Olivia & Marino flatbreads on a clean cutting board or serving platter. Using a small spoon or a spatula, evenly distribute the shrimp, garlic, and chili mixture onto each flatbread. Ensure each piece receives a generous amount of the flavorful topping, spreading it evenly across the surface for consistent taste in every bite.

If desired, you can add additional toppings such as fresh herbs (parsley or basil) or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness and presentation. Keep in mind that simplicity is key to highlighting the main ingredients—the shrimp, garlic, and chili.

5. Serving

Serve immediately while warm. These spianatine are best enjoyed fresh to retain the crispiness of the flatbread and the vibrant flavors of the topping. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling water infused with lemon for a complete Mediterranean-inspired experience.

Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to add brightness and freshness.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and chili will provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen shrimp that has been thawed multiple times.
• Adjust spice levels: For less heat, remove the seeds from the chili or use a milder pepper. For more spice, add extra slices or use a hotter variety.
• Garlic handling: For a milder garlic flavor, lightly crush the garlic before slicing. For a stronger aroma, finely chop or crush the garlic before adding to the skillet.
• Flatbread choices: Use high-quality flatbreads or tortillas if you can’t find the specific brand mentioned. Toast or warm flatbreads slightly before assembling for better texture.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhance flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for added depth.
• Make ahead: Prepare the garlic and chili mixture in advance. Reheat slightly before assembling to keep the flavors fresh.
• Spice variation: Incorporate smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a different spicy dimension.
• Presentation: Garnish with microgreens or finely chopped herbs for a restaurant-quality finish.

Add-ons

• Fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or cilantro
• Drizzle of balsamic reduction or aged balsamic vinegar
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese for added creaminess
• Chopped olives for a salty accent

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Marinated olives and pickles
• Roasted vegetables such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes
• Light Greek yogurt dip with herbs

Improvements and Variations

• Vegetarian version: Replace shrimp with grilled zucchini slices or eggplant for a meatless alternative.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes into the oil for an extra fiery punch.
• Cheesy twist: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before serving for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Gluten-free adaptation: Use gluten-free flatbreads or crispbreads to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Save and Store

If you have leftovers or want to prepare in advance, store the assembled flatbreads separately from the toppings. Keep the flatbreads in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. The shrimp topping can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the topping gently in a skillet before serving to regain its freshness and aroma. Avoid storing the assembled dish for more than a few hours to maintain texture and flavor.

FAQ

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the shrimp with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the vegetables are tender and flavorful.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Thaw the shrimp thoroughly in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking. Pat dry to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a better sear and flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spiciness depends on the chili used. Thin slices of fresh chili are moderate in heat, but you can control the spice level by removing seeds or choosing milder peppers. For more heat, add extra slices or use a hotter chili variety.

Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Traditional flatbreads contain gluten, but you can substitute with gluten-free flatbreads or crispbreads for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

This Spianatine with Shrimp, Garlic, Olive Oil, and Chili captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors in a simple, elegant presentation. Its quick preparation, vibrant ingredients, and bold taste make it an ideal appetizer for any occasion. Whether served at a casual gathering or a formal dinner, this dish impresses with its balance of spice, sweetness, and freshness. As always, Love With Recipes invites you to explore and enjoy this culinary gem, encouraging you to tweak and personalize it to suit your palate and dietary needs. Elevate your appetizer game with this delightful recipe, and watch as your guests marvel at the explosion of flavors in every bite.

References

• Olive Oil Source. “The Essential Guide to Extra Virgin Olive Oil.” https://www.oliveoilsource.com
• Seafood Nutrition Partnership. “Seafood & Omega-3s.” https://seafoodnutrition.org