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Shrimp Marsala

Shrimp Marsala is a vibrant Italian dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich, glossy sauce made from Marsala wine, garlic, and mushrooms. The dish boasts a savory, slightly sweet flavor profile with a velvety texture, finished with fresh herbs and a burst of brightness from lemon juice. Its visual appeal is highlighted by the shimmering sauce coating perfectly cooked shrimp and golden mushrooms.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine dry variety preferred
  • 1 cup mushrooms cremini or button, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic fresh, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon capers capers optional
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped parsley

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Begin by peeling and deveining your shrimp if they aren’t already prepared, then pat them dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper, and set aside.
  2. Heat your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a teaspoon of butter, and once shimmering, place the shrimp in a single layer. Sear for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop a slight golden crust. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their earthy aroma and turn a beautiful golden brown. This creates a fragrant base for your sauce.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. The garlic should become fragrant, releasing a warm aroma, but avoid burning it to prevent bitterness.
  5. Pour in the dry Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the wine to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it reduces by half and the sauce begins to thicken and become glossy.
  6. Return the seared shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing them in the sauce. Add the butter and optional capers, and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce coats the shrimp beautifully.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle chopped parsley. Give everything a gentle toss to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Serve your shrimp Marsala immediately, spooning the luscious sauce over the shrimp and garnishing with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy the rich, glossy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal.