Hazelnut Crusted Shrimp Italiano Recipe

Introduction

Embark on a culinary journey with this exquisitely crafted Hazelnut Crusted Shrimp Italiano, a dish that embodies the harmony of textures and flavors characteristic of authentic Italian cuisine. This recipe showcases the succulent sweetness of shrimp, enveloped in a crunchy, nutty hazelnut crust, complemented by a savory tomato and mushroom sauté, aromatic basil, and a splash of white wine that elevates the dish to a sophisticated level. Served over a bed of al dente linguine, this meal is perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight dinner. At Love With Recipes, we believe that great food should be both delightful and accessible, and this dish delivers on both fronts, blending gourmet ingredients with straightforward techniques for a memorable dining experience.

Time

Preparation Time

Approximately 20 minutes, including prep and assembly.

Cooking Time

Approximately 15 minutes, including frying and simmering.

Total Time

Approximately 35 minutes from start to finish, making it suitable for a quick yet impressive meal.

Needed Equipment

• Large heavy skillet or sauté pan (preferably cast iron or stainless steel)
• Mixing bowls (for egg wash and coating)
• Pie plate or shallow dish (for coating ingredients)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and chopping board
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Colander or pasta strainer
• Tongs or slotted spoon (for turning shrimp)
• Cooking thermometer (optional, for precise oil temperature)
• Serving platter or large bowl for pasta
• Paper towels (for draining fried shrimp)
• Grater (for parmesan cheese, if not pre-grated)

Tags

Seafood, Nut-Crusted, Italian, Pasta, Easy Dinner, Gourmet, Crunchy, Flavorful, Quick Meal

Serving Size

Serves 4 generous portions, ideal for sharing among friends or family at a dinner gathering.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — requires attentive frying and sautéing but remains accessible with clear instructions.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

Gluten-containing dish; suitable for pescatarians. To make it gluten-free, substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure the coating ingredients are gluten-free.

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

Italian

Ingredients

In-Depth Ingredient Breakdown

Instructions

Preparation of the Hazelnut Coating

Begin by preparing the coating mixture that will lend the shrimp their signature crunch and rich flavor. Take a shallow dish or pie plate and combine the dry ingredients: 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup of finely chopped hazelnuts. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture. To enhance the flavor of the hazelnuts, consider toasting them briefly in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once toasted, allow them to cool slightly before chopping finely. This step amplifies their aroma and adds depth to the crust. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all dry ingredients, creating a uniform coating mixture that will adhere well to the shrimp during dredging.

Preparing the Egg Wash

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together two large eggs and 1 cup of milk until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. This egg wash will serve as the adhesive that helps the hazelnut mixture stick to the shrimp. Whisking thoroughly ensures that the eggs and milk are well combined, creating a uniform coating that will produce evenly crusted shrimp. Be sure to use fresh eggs for best results, and consider adding a pinch of salt or pepper to the egg mixture if you wish to enhance flavor. If you prefer a richer coating, you could add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of olive oil to the egg wash, but for this recipe, simplicity is key to allow the hazelnut flavor to shine.

Coating the Shrimp

Prepare your workspace with the coated shrimp, egg wash, and hazelnut mixture within easy reach. Take each peeled and deveined shrimp, dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Hold the shrimp with tongs or your fingers, allowing excess egg to drip off gently. Then, place the shrimp into the hazelnut mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly all around. Turn the shrimp to ensure complete coverage. Shake off any excess coating by gently tapping the shrimp on the side of the dish. This step ensures a balanced, crispy crust when fried. Repeat this process for all the shrimp, laying them on a plate or tray as you go. For a more even coating, you can use a fork or tongs to flip the shrimp in the hazelnuts, ensuring no part is missed. If you prefer a thicker crust, you can double-dip the shrimp by repeating the process—first in egg wash, then hazelnuts, then again in egg and hazelnuts for an extra crunchy exterior.

Cooking the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, sprinkle a tiny bit of flour or a small piece of shrimp into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. Carefully place the coated shrimp into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and lead to greasy results. Fry the shrimp for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs or a slotted spoon, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the shrimp should reach 145°F (63°C), and they should be opaque and firm. Use a cooking thermometer if needed. Remove the cooked shrimp with tongs or a slotted spoon and transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the process with remaining shrimp, maintaining a steady temperature for optimal crispiness.

Preparing the Tomato and Mushroom Mixture

In the same skillet, add an additional teaspoon of olive oil if needed, then add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to wilt, about 5 minutes. Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic, stirring frequently. Cook until the tomatoes soften and burst, releasing their juices, and the garlic becomes fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This sauté creates a rich, flavorful base that complements the crispy shrimp beautifully. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste. For a more complex flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh thyme during this step.

Adding the Wine and Basil

Deglaze the skillet by pouring in 1/2 cup of dry white wine, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon or spatula to loosen any flavorful browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce slightly, approximately 3-5 minutes, concentrating the flavors. Stir in freshly chopped basil, saving some for garnish. The wine adds acidity and depth, balancing the richness of the crusted shrimp and the savory tomato sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or herbs according to preference.

Cooking the Linguine

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water if desired to loosen the sauce later. Transfer the cooked linguine to a large serving bowl or directly into the skillet with the tomato and mushroom mixture if you prefer to toss everything together. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Assembling the Dish

To serve, plate the linguine topped with the sautéed tomato and mushroom mixture. Arrange the crispy hazelnut crusted shrimp on top, ensuring a balanced presentation. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. For an extra touch, drizzle a little high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving.

Preparation Tips

• Toast hazelnuts for enhanced flavor: Briefly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Allow cooling before chopping finely.
• Ensure shrimp are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to achieve crisp coating and prevent splattering during frying.
• Maintain consistent oil temperature (~350°F/175°C) for even frying. Use a thermometer if possible.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with rice flour or gluten-free baking flour, and use gluten-free pasta.
• Adjust spice levels: Increase cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat or omit for milder flavor.
• Use fresh herbs for maximum aroma; dried basil can be used but will have a different intensity.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For extra crunch, double-coat the shrimp by repeating the dredging process in egg wash and hazelnut mixture.
• Use a thermometer to maintain proper frying temperature, ensuring crispy crust without excess oil absorption.
• Chop hazelnuts finely for a more uniform coating that adheres better to the shrimp.
• If you prefer a zestier flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the tomato mixture or serve with lemon wedges.
• Fresh basil can be substituted with arugula or parsley for variations.
• For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving.

Add-ons

• Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness
• Grated Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor
• Olives or capers for a briny accent
• Freshly toasted bread or garlic bread for serving alongside

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread or focaccia to complement the meal
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette for freshness
• Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus
• Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil
• Steamed or roasted broccoli or green beans for added greens

Improvements

• Experiment with different nuts such as almonds or pistachios for varied flavor profiles.
• Add a touch of anchovy paste to the tomato sauce for umami depth.
• Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for intensified tomato flavor.
• Use homemade pasta for an authentic touch and superior quality.
• Implement a light breadcrumb or panko coating for a different crunchy texture.

Save and Store

Since the shrimp is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, it is recommended to serve immediately. However, you can prepare the components ahead of time:

• Coat the shrimp and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before frying.
• Prepare the tomato and mushroom mixture in advance and reheat gently before serving.
• Cook the pasta just before serving to maintain perfect al dente texture.

Fried shrimp are not suitable for freezing as they lose their crispiness upon thawing. Leftovers of the tomato mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve flavor and texture.

FAQ

Can I use other types of nuts instead of hazelnuts?

Yes, almonds, pistachios, or pecans can be substituted, each imparting a unique flavor and crunch. Toasting and fine chopping are recommended for best adhesion and flavor enhancement.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Replace the all-purpose flour with rice or gluten-free flour, and choose gluten-free pasta varieties. Ensure the hazelnuts are processed in a gluten-free environment to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Yes, coat and refrigerate the shrimp for up to 2 hours before frying. Prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently. Cook pasta fresh for optimal texture.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Vermentino complements the seafood and enhances the flavors without overpowering them.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during the coating or tomato sauté to increase heat according to your preference.

Conclusion

This Hazelnut Crusted Shrimp Italiano exemplifies the perfect blend of crunch, freshness, and savory richness that elevates any dining occasion. Its combination of tender shrimp, nutty coating, and vibrant Italian-inspired sauce makes it a standout dish that appeals to seafood lovers and gourmet enthusiasts alike. At Love With Recipes, we encourage you to embrace the art of combining textures and flavors, and this recipe offers an excellent canvas for customization and culinary creativity. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a special treat, this meal promises a delightful experience that transports your taste buds straight to Italy. Remember, the key to success lies in selecting fresh ingredients, maintaining proper frying temperature, and garnishing with love and care. Buon Appetito!

References

For more insights into Italian seafood dishes and nut crust recipes, consider exploring sources such as “The Silver Spoon” and “Gordon Ramsay’s Great British Menu.” These provide foundational techniques and flavor pairings that enrich this recipe and inspire further culinary adventures.