Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe Fiery Pomodoro Red

I always turn to this easy shrimp fra diavolo recipe when I need a truly satisfying meal that feels special without all the fuss.

The aroma of fiery garlic and sweet tomatoes simmering together promises a dinner that’s vibrant in both color and taste. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for hearty, family-friendly home cooking, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors in a flash. It’s my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner, especially when I’m short on time but craving big, bold Italian flavors. Our foolproof method ensures tender shrimp in a rich, spicy Fiery Pomodoro Red sauce every single time.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Why They Matter)

To master this easy shrimp fra diavolo recipe, selecting good ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious, Fiery Pomodoro Red family dinner:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Lean protein, choose wild-caught if possible.
• 2 Tbsp (30ml) olive oil: For sautéing aromatics.
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for deep flavor.
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste): Creates the signature ‘fra diavolo’ heat.
• 1 (28 oz / 794g) can crushed tomatoes: Heart of the Fiery Pomodoro Red sauce; San Marzano recommended (or your favorite quality brand).
• ½ cup (120ml) chicken or vegetable broth: Adds richness and moisture.
• ½ tsp sugar (optional): Balances tomato acidity, especially useful if you find tomatoes too tart.
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped: For a bright, fresh finish (dried Italian herbs also work).
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Seasoning.
• A splash of fresh lemon juice: Brightens flavors.

How to Make Shrimp Fra Diavolo Step by Step

Making this fiery shrimp fra diavolo recipe is truly straightforward. Get ready for a perfect family-friendly meal in under 30 minutes, delivering tender shrimp and a perfectly balanced Fiery Pomodoro Red sauce.

1. Prep Shrimp (5 minutes): Pat shrimp very dry with paper towels for better searing. Season lightly with salt and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Sauté Aromatics (1-2 minutes): Heat olive oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
3. Build Sauce (10-15 minutes): Pour in chicken or vegetable broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in crushed tomatoes and optional sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook until slightly thickened, stirring. The sauce’s color will deepen beautifully.
4. Cook Shrimp (3-5 minutes): Add seasoned shrimp to the simmering sauce, ensuring they are submerged. Cook, stirring, until they turn pink and opaque throughout. Do not overcook; if they form an ‘O’ shape, they are overcooked and rubbery.
5. Finish & Serve (2 minutes): Remove skillet from heat. Stir in fresh basil or parsley and lemon juice. Taste the Fiery Pomodoro Red sauce and adjust seasoning. I find this quick dish a lifesaver on busy weeknights!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Our shrimp fra diavolo recipe is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. This Fiery Pomodoro Red dish effortlessly transitions from a casual weeknight meal to an impressive special occasion dinner.

Everyday uses: meal prep, weeknight dinners, quick lunches

• Weeknight Dinner: Serve this amazing shrimp fra diavolo over your favorite pasta, fluffy rice, or with crusty bread for a satisfying and easy family dinner.
• Quick Lunches: Leftovers reheat beautifully for a delicious, high-protein lunch the next day. Sometimes I’ll pack it in a thermos for a warm meal at work.
• Easy High-Protein Meals: It’s a fantastic way to enjoy lean protein without much fuss, supporting your healthy eating goals.

Special occasions: gatherings, holidays, kids’ snacks

• Impress Guests: The vibrant color and bold flavors make this dish look fancy, but it’s so simple to prepare.
• Romantic Dinner: An elegant yet cozy option that comes together quickly, leaving more time for conversation.

Pairings: sides, toppings, drinks that fit shrimp fra diavolo

• Sides: A fresh, crisp green salad or zucchini noodles are perfect alongside. Don’t forget some warm garlic bread for dipping into that incredible sauce.
• Toppings: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra red pepper flakes for those who love more heat really elevates the dish. Grated Parmesan is a classic, too.
• Drinks: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully, or opt for sparkling water with lemon.

Nutrition & Everyday Wellness with Shrimp Fra Diavolo

This shrimp fra diavolo recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s a smart choice for healthy eating and everyday wellness. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that fuel your body.

Highlight diet angles

• Healthy recipes for dinner: Featuring lean shrimp and a veggie-rich tomato sauce, it’s a balanced and nutritious meal.
• Easy high-protein meals: Shrimp delivers excellent protein, crucial for muscle health and satiety.
• Low-carb friendly: Easily make it a low-carb meal by serving over zoodles, spaghetti squash, or roasted vegetables instead of pasta.

3–4 points on benefits

• Energy: The combination of protein and healthy fats keeps you feeling full and energized throughout your day.
• Satiety: Wholesome ingredients like tomatoes and shrimp contribute to a deeply satisfying meal that curbs cravings.
• Wholesome ingredients: You’re using real tomatoes, fresh garlic, and lean shrimp, making this a truly nourishing choice.

How This Recipe Solves Common Needs

This easy shrimp fra diavolo recipe is a lifesaver for busy families, proving that delicious home cooking can fit perfectly into a hectic schedule while supporting your family’s health.

Relate shrimp fra diavolo to reader goals

• Budget meals: Shrimp can be an affordable protein, especially when bought frozen, and the sauce uses common pantry staples.
• Convenience: This dish has one-pan potential and a quick cook time, making it ideal for quick meals on busy weeknights.
• Healthier eating: By making it at home, you control the ingredients, allowing for less fat and sodium compared to restaurant versions.

2–3 clear bullets on time savings, nutrition value, or versatility

• Time Savings: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, this is perfect for busy evenings when you need a family-friendly meal fast.
• Nutrition Value: It’s packed with lean protein from the shrimp and vibrant, antioxidant-rich vegetables from the Fiery Pomodoro Red sauce.
• Versatility: Easily adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences, making it a great base for various healthy recipes.

Expert Pointers and Smart Variations

Mastering this shrimp fra diavolo recipe is easy with a few simple tricks. These pointers will elevate your dish and help you tailor it to your household’s tastes.

Cooking tricks for texture, flavor, or faster prep

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary for better searing and to prevent steaming, ensuring perfectly tender results.
• Bloom red pepper flakes: Sautéing the red pepper flakes in olive oil at the start releases their oils and maximizes their fiery heat and flavor in the sauce.
• Use San Marzano tomatoes: For a truly superior sauce, I always reach for good quality San Marzano crushed tomatoes; their natural sweetness and low acidity make a noticeable difference in my shrimp fra diavolo recipe.

Adjustments for family/kid preferences

• Reduce red pepper flakes: For milder heat, use fewer flakes in the main sauce and serve extra on the side for adults.
• Add a pinch of sugar: A small pinch of sugar to the tomato sauce can help balance the spice and acidity, making it more appealing for younger palates.

Allergy-friendly tweaks or diet-safe swaps

• Dairy-free: This dish is naturally dairy-free if you omit any optional Parmesan cheese for serving.
• Gluten-free: Simply serve your Fiery Pomodoro Red shrimp over gluten-free pasta or a bed of zucchini noodles.

Common Questions About Shrimp Fra Diavolo

Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious and easy shrimp fra diavolo recipe.

Q: Can I freeze shrimp fra diavolo for later?

A: Yes, the sauce freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. For the best texture, I recommend freezing the sauce without the shrimp, then cooking fresh shrimp when you reheat the sauce. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q: What’s the healthiest way to make shrimp fra diavolo?

A: To make it extra healthy, use plenty of fresh vegetables in your sauce, opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and serve with whole wheat pasta or a veggie noodle alternative for a balanced, high-fiber meal. This makes it one of my go-to healthy recipes for dinner.

Q: Which ingredients are best for meal prepping shrimp fra diavolo?

A: High-quality crushed tomatoes, fresh or frozen shrimp, and dried herbs are excellent for meal prep. Cook your pasta or zoodles separately and combine everything right before eating for optimal freshness. The sauce itself is a fantastic component for various easy high-protein meals.

Q: How can I make my shrimp fra diavolo sauce thicker?

A: To thicken the sauce, simply simmer it uncovered for a longer period, allowing it to reduce naturally. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer, thicker consistency. Just ensure it doesn’t get too thick to coat the pasta well.

Q: Can I use different seafood in this fra diavolo recipe?

A: Absolutely! This Fiery Pomodoro Red sauce pairs wonderfully with other seafood. Mussels, scallops, or a mix of seafood can be used; just add them according to their individual cooking times to avoid overcooking any delicate items.

Q: What does “fra diavolo” mean and why is this shrimp dish called that?

A: “Fra Diavolo” translates to “brother devil” in Italian. This name refers to the distinctive spicy kick in the sauce, often from red pepper flakes, that gives this shrimp recipe its famous fiery flavor. It’s a playful nod to its delicious heat.

Conclusion

This shrimp fra diavolo recipe proves that restaurant-quality, fiery Italian food can be simple, healthy, and on your table in no time for a vibrant, family-friendly meal. Pin this easy recipe to save it for your next family dinner and share the deliciousness!

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