Shrimp Oreganata

Shrimp Oreganata is a timeless Italian-American favorite that brings together the rich flavors of oregano garlic and lemon in a perfectly baked shrimp dish.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on if desired)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped

1 tablespoon dried oregano or 1 ½ tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped

¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of spice)

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup white wine optional for added flavor

Juice of 1 lemon

For Garnish:

Lemon wedges

Fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to cook the shrimp quickly and evenly.

Arrange the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. Make sure they aren’t overlapping to allow even cooking. You can leave the tails on for a more elegant presentation or remove them if you prefer.

Step 2: Make the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Drizzle in the olive oil and stir until the mixture is well-coated. The breadcrumbs should clump together slightly, creating a slightly moist yet crumbly topping. This will ensure a crispy crust when baked. If the mixture feels too dry add an extra drizzle of olive oil until you reach the desired texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Generously sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. The breadcrumbs should form a nice, thick layer over the shrimp.

If you’re using white wine, pour it around the shrimp in the baking dish. This will add flavor and moisture as the shrimp bake  helping to infuse the dish with a subtle, rich taste.

Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp and breadcrumbs for a fresh, zesty kick. This will balance the richness of the garlic and Parmesan, providing a burst of citrus flavor with each bite.

Step 4:

Put the baking dish into the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes.

 The shrimp should turn a lovely pink color, and the breadcrumbs should be golden brown and crispy. The shrimp will become opaque and tender when cooked properly.

Check for doneness: Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to check that they are cooked through but not overdone. You’ll know they are ready when they curl into a C-shape and are opaque in the center.

Step 5: Broil for Extra Crispiness

If you prefer an even crispier topping, switch on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to ensure the breadcrumbs don’t burn. This step will give the dish a slightly toasted, golden finish that enhances the flavor and texture of the topping.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish the shrimp with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Serve immediately for the best texture, with the breadcrumb topping still crispy. Pair the shrimp with a simple side dish like a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of pasta for a complete meal.

Tips

Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding different herbs like thyme, basil, or even a little rosemary for a unique twist. You can also add a splash of lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra burst of citrus.

Other Seafood Options: This breadcrumb mixture isn’t just for shrimp. It works wonderfully with other seafood, such as scallops, clams, or even white fish like cod or sole. You can also use it to make baked stuffed shells or top a seafood casserole for a crispy finish.

Make it Spicy: For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.

Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: If you prefer a fresher flavor, consider making your own breadcrumbs using day-old bread. Simply pulse it in a food processor for a coarse, fresh texture that will add more flavor.

Serve with Sides: Shrimp Oreganata pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, crusty Italian bread, or a side of pasta. You can also serve it with a light Mediterranean salad to balance the rich flavors of the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

As an Appetizer: Shrimp Oreganata makes an excellent appetizer for any dinner party or holiday gathering. Serve it alongside some bruschetta  stuffed mushrooms, or a cheese platter for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.

As a Main Course: Pair the shrimp with a light pasta, such as angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and fresh herbs, or serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a satisfying meal.

For a Complete Mediterranean Feast: Create a Mediterranean-inspired feast by serving Shrimp Oreganata alongside other classic dishes such as grilled vegetables, hummus, and tabbouleh. This creates a fresh, balanced meal bursting with vibrant flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

 To reheat  place the shrimp in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

To achieve a crispier topping, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.

Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to prepare the dish in advance, you can freeze the shrimp and breadcrumb mixture before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the original baking instructions.

Enjoy this savory  aromatic dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen.

 Looking for a hearty meal? Try our delicious (beef) recipes, packed with bold flavors and tender cuts of meat.

📌 Follow us on Facebook for more delicious recipes: Facebook Page