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Low Sodium Shrimp Sauce: Weeknight Wow

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined) — quick thaw if needed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth (low-sodium if you’re watching salt)
  • 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes or a quick tomato passata
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a punch)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Salt: use as little as needed, or skip entirely if your broth is salty
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with pepper. This keeps them from releasing too much water. Sear in a hot pan with olive oil for 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pan, add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Don’t burn it—garlic bitterness is not your friend.
  • Pour in white wine or broth to deglaze, scraping up the tasty browned bits. Let it reduce for 1–2 minutes.
  • Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 3–4 minutes to bloom the flavors.
  • Stir in lemon juice and return shrimp to the pan. Warm through for 1–2 minutes. Finish with chopped parsley or basil.
  • Taste and adjust pepper. If you’re avoiding salt entirely, a splash of extra lemon can brighten things nicely.