This Easy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp Dinner is a colorful and tasty meal! You’ll love the juicy shrimp mixed with fresh veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, all roasted to perfection.
It’s a simple one-pan dish that makes cleanup a breeze. I find it perfect for busy nights when I just want delicious food without the fuss. Plus, who doesn’t love shrimp? 🦐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp are the star here. If you prefer, you can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Chicken or chickpeas could also be a great substitute if you want a different protein.
Bell Peppers: I love using both red and yellow peppers for their sweetness. Feel free to swap in green peppers if that’s what you have, or even use other veggies like asparagus or green beans to switch it up!
Zucchini: This veggie adds a nice texture. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use yellow squash or even eggplant as an alternative. They all roast well and soak up flavors nicely.
Spices: The oregano and basil give a Mediterranean flair, but you could also use Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand. For an extra kick, consider adding a bit of cumin or coriander.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to ensure yours turn out perfectly:
- Make sure your shrimp are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcook! Shrimp cook quickly; they only need about 10-12 minutes in a hot oven until they turn pink and opaque.
- Keep an eye on them. If they start to curl tightly, they may be overcooked.
By following these steps, your shrimp will be juicy and delicious every time! Enjoy this easy and delightful dinner! 🍤
Easy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 10-12 minutes of cooking in the oven. In total, you can have this meal ready in about 30 minutes—great for a quick dinner after a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup much easier later!
2. Mix the Veggies and Shrimp:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the peeled shrimp and all your colorful veggies: the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Create Your Flavor Mix:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat), and some salt and pepper. This mixture is packed with flavor!
4. Combine and Coat:
Pour the flavored olive oil mixture over the shrimp and veggies. Use your hands to toss everything together so that all the ingredients are evenly coated with those tasty seasonings.
5. Arrange in a Single Layer:
Spread the coated shrimp and veggie mix on the prepared baking sheet so they’re in a single layer. This helps everything cook evenly!
6. Roast to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the shrimp should turn opaque and the veggies should soften nicely.
7. Add Freshness:
Once cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the entire dish. This will brighten up the flavors beautifully!
8. Final Touches:
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and some freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. It adds a nice touch of flavor and color!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean shrimp dinner immediately, and feel free to enjoy it with warm pita bread, couscous, or rice. Dig in and savor every bite!
Enjoy your quick, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean shrimp dinner! 🍤😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, pat them dry to ensure they roast nicely.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have bell peppers or zucchini, feel free to get creative! Asparagus, broccoli, or even snap peas work well with this dish. The key is to choose vegetables that roast well and compliment the flavors of shrimp.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave. If using the microwave, stir occasionally to heat evenly without overcooking the shrimp.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the shrimp and vegetables and keep them marinated in the fridge for a couple of hours. Just roast them right before serving for the best taste and texture!
