Description
This Shrimp with Saffron Cream Sauce recipe offers an elegant and flavorful seafood dish featuring large shrimp sautéed in a rich saffron-infused cream sauce. Perfect for a sophisticated dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired main course combines aromatic saffron, garlic, and creamy textures, creating a deliciously luxurious meal that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or seafood/chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Steep Saffron: In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water for about 10 minutes to release their vibrant color and unique flavor, enhancing the sauce.
- Cook Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside, keeping the flavorful browned bits in the pan.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, creating the base for the sauce.
- Deglaze Pan: Pour in the white wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the skillet bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the liquid slightly reduces and concentrates in flavor.
- Add Cream and Saffron: Stir in the saffron with its soaking water and the heavy cream. If desired, add paprika for extra color and flavor. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them thoroughly in the saffron cream sauce. Simmer gently for 1–2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for a delicious and elegant meal.
Notes
- Serve this shrimp dish over rice, pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- For extra richness and depth, stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
