Easy & Romantic Shrimp Dinners for Two: Quick Recipes for a Delicious Night In
Planning a cozy night in? Skip the restaurant reservations and impress your loved one with a delicious, easy-to-prepare shrimp dinner. Shrimp is a fantastic choice for a romantic meal – it cooks quickly, is packed with flavor, and feels a bit more special than your average weeknight protein. This article is your guide to creating unforgettable shrimp dinners for two, complete with detailed recipes and instructions to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable cooking experience. We’ll cover everything from simple skillet dishes to elegant pasta creations, guaranteeing a perfect dish for any taste.
Why Shrimp is Perfect for a Date Night Dinner
Shrimp offers numerous advantages for a romantic meal for two:
* **Quick Cooking Time:** Shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, meaning you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. This leaves you more time to enjoy each other’s company.
* **Versatile Flavor:** Shrimp takes on a wide variety of flavors beautifully, making it easy to create a dish that suits your preferences. Whether you prefer spicy, savory, or sweet, shrimp can accommodate your desires.
* **Elegant Presentation:** Shrimp dishes often look elegant and sophisticated, adding a touch of romance to your evening.
* **Healthy Option:** Shrimp is a lean protein source, making it a healthier alternative to red meat.
Essential Tips for Cooking Perfect Shrimp
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s cover some essential tips for cooking perfect shrimp:
* **Buy High-Quality Shrimp:** Purchase fresh or frozen shrimp from a reputable source. Look for shrimp that is firm, plump, and has a fresh, ocean-like smell. Avoid shrimp that smells fishy or ammonia-like.
* **Thaw Shrimp Properly:** If using frozen shrimp, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or quickly thaw it under cold running water for about 15-20 minutes. Do not thaw shrimp at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth.
* **Devein Shrimp (Optional):** While deveining is optional (the dark line is just the shrimp’s digestive tract), it can improve the texture and appearance of your dish. To devein shrimp, use a small paring knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp, then lift out the dark vein.
* **Don’t Overcook Shrimp:** Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and tough. Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It usually takes just 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the size of the shrimp.
* **Pat Shrimp Dry:** Before cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This will help them brown properly and prevent them from steaming.
Recipe 1: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
This classic dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The garlicky, buttery sauce perfectly complements the delicate flavor of the shrimp, and the linguine provides a satisfying base.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 oz linguine pasta
* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Red pepper flakes (to taste)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Prepare the Shrimp:** While the pasta is cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. **Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:** In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. **Deglaze the Pan:** Pour in the white wine and chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly.
5. **Cook the Shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
6. **Add the Pasta and Finish:** Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
**Tips for Success:**
* Don’t overcook the shrimp! It should be just cooked through and still tender.
* Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
* If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute it with more chicken broth.
## Recipe 2: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
These shrimp tacos are bursting with flavor and are incredibly easy to make. The spicy shrimp is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the mango salsa, creating a delightful culinary experience.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 8 small corn or flour tortillas
* **For the Mango Salsa:**
* 1 ripe mango, diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely diced
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* Salt to taste
* **Optional Toppings:**
* Shredded cabbage
* Avocado slices
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt
* Hot sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Mango Salsa:** In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt to taste and mix well. Set aside.
2. **Season the Shrimp:** In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the shrimp is evenly coated with the spices.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:** Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the tortillas according to package directions or by lightly charring them over an open flame or in a dry skillet.
5. **Assemble the Tacos:** Fill each tortilla with the spicy shrimp, mango salsa, and any desired toppings.
**Tips for Success:**
* Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
* Make the mango salsa ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld.
* Use fresh, ripe mango for the best flavor.
* Warm the tortillas just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
## Recipe 3: Lemon Herb Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packets
These foil packets are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to clean up. The lemon herb marinade infuses the shrimp and asparagus with bright, fresh flavors, making for a healthy and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 large sheets of aluminum foil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In the same bowl, toss the shrimp and asparagus with the lemon herb marinade until evenly coated.
3. **Assemble the Foil Packets:** Divide the shrimp and asparagus mixture evenly between the two sheets of aluminum foil. Fold each sheet in half, then fold the edges over to create a sealed packet. Make sure the packets are tightly sealed to prevent steam from escaping.
4. **Bake or Grill:**
* **Bake:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and opaque and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
* **Grill:** Preheat grill to medium heat. Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and opaque and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
5. **Serve:** Carefully open the foil packets (be careful of the steam) and serve immediately.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing.
* Make sure the foil packets are tightly sealed to trap the steam and cook the shrimp and asparagus evenly.
* Add other vegetables to the foil packets, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
## Recipe 4: Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta
This recipe offers a comforting and flavorful pasta dish. The creamy tomato sauce provides a rich base for the shrimp, creating a truly satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
* 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Prepare the Shrimp:** While the pasta is cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. **Make the Tomato Sauce:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. **Add Tomatoes and Simmer:** Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. **Cook the Shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
6. **Add Cream and Cheese:** Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. **Add Pasta and Basil:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the fresh basil.
8. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use high-quality canned diced tomatoes for the best flavor.
* Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
* If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk (the sauce will be less rich).
## Recipe 5: Shrimp and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is a healthy and customizable option. Use your favorite vegetables and create a flavorful sauce to complement the shrimp.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 green bell pepper, sliced
* 1 onion, sliced
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1 cup snow peas
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 inch ginger, grated
* **For the Sauce:**
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon cornstarch
* 1/4 cup water
* Cooked rice (for serving)
* Sesame seeds (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Shrimp:** Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. **Stir-Fry the Vegetables:** Heat the olive oil or sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
4. **Add Broccoli and Snow Peas:** Add the broccoli florets and snow peas and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until tender-crisp.
5. **Add Garlic and Ginger:** Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
6. **Cook the Shrimp:** Push the vegetables to one side of the wok or skillet. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
7. **Add the Sauce:** Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and coats everything evenly.
8. **Serve:** Serve immediately over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use high heat to stir-fry the vegetables and shrimp quickly.
* Prepare all the ingredients before you start cooking, as the stir-fry comes together quickly.
* Use your favorite vegetables in the stir-fry, such as carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini.
* Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.
## Recipe 6: Shrimp Ceviche
This refreshing dish is perfect for a light and flavorful meal. The shrimp is “cooked” in lime juice and combined with fresh vegetables for a vibrant and tangy experience.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked
* 1 cup lime juice
* 1/2 red onion, finely diced
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
* 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
* 1 avocado, diced
* 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Tortilla chips or tostadas (for serving)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Shrimp:** If using raw shrimp, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and opaque. Drain the shrimp and let it cool slightly. If using pre-cooked shrimp skip this step.
2. **Marinate the Shrimp:** In a glass bowl, combine the cooked shrimp and lime juice. Make sure the shrimp is completely submerged in the lime juice. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The lime juice will “cook” the shrimp and give it a firm texture.
3. **Add Vegetables:** After the shrimp has marinated, drain off most of the lime juice. Add the red onion, jalapeño (if using), cucumber, avocado, and cilantro to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
4. **Serve:** Serve the shrimp ceviche immediately with tortilla chips or tostadas.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
* Marinate the shrimp for the recommended time to ensure it is properly “cooked” by the lime juice.
* Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your spice preference.
* Serve the ceviche immediately, as the avocado will start to brown if left out for too long.
## Recipe 7: Creamy Coconut Curry Shrimp
This aromatic curry is both comforting and exotic. The coconut milk creates a creamy and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp and spices.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon coconut oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 inch ginger, grated
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk
* 1 tablespoon curry powder
* 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Cooked rice (for serving)
* Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Shrimp:** Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. **Add Bell Pepper and Spices:** Add the red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. **Add Coconut Milk and Simmer:** Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. **Cook the Shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately over cooked rice, garnished with chopped cilantro.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce.
* Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
* Add other vegetables to the curry, such as green beans, peas, or cauliflower.
* Serve with naan bread or roti for dipping in the sauce.
## Recipe 8: Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas
These sheet pan fajitas are a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and customizable meal. The shrimp and vegetables are roasted on a single sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 green bell pepper, sliced
* 1 onion, sliced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Flour tortillas (for serving)
* **Optional Toppings:**
* Salsa
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt
* Guacamole
* Shredded cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Shrimp and Vegetables:** In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. **Roast the Fajitas:** Spread the shrimp and vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and opaque and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the tortillas according to package directions or by lightly charring them over an open flame or in a dry skillet.
5. **Assemble the Fajitas:** Fill each tortilla with the roasted shrimp and vegetables and your desired toppings.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use a large baking sheet to ensure the shrimp and vegetables are spread in a single layer.
* Adjust the amount of fajita seasoning to your preference.
* Serve with your favorite fajita toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese.
## Conclusion: A Shrimp Dinner for Every Romantic Occasion
These easy shrimp dinner recipes for two provide a variety of options for creating a memorable and delicious meal. From classic scampi to flavorful tacos and comforting curries, there’s a recipe to suit every taste and occasion. So, fire up the stove, grab your loved one, and enjoy a romantic night in with these simple and satisfying shrimp dinners. Remember to adjust the recipes to your liking, and most importantly, have fun creating a meal you both will enjoy! Bon appétit!