A Taste of the Mediterranean in Every Bite…

There’s something magical about the simplicity of fresh shrimp simmered in a creamy garlic herb sauce — rich, comforting, and kissed with the flavors of the Mediterranean coast.

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Mediterranean Herbs is the kind of dish that brings people to the table. Think rustic seaside tavernas, the scent of garlic wafting through olive groves, and a table set with crusty bread, a glass of chilled white wine, and laughter echoing through the evening air.

It’s quick to prepare, yet elegant enough to serve when guests stop by — tender shrimp, seared to perfection, then bathed in a velvety sauce with garlic, white wine, and a sprinkle of oregano and thyme. A handful of fresh parsley finishes the dish with brightness and charm.

Serve it over pasta, lemony rice, or simply with a warm hunk of sourdough to mop up every drop.

Crockery & ingredients I love using

find them all here: My Mediterranean Greek Pantry

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp sweet paprika

½ tsp sea salt

½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp unsalted butter (or a bit more olive oil, if preferred)

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup dry white wine or light vegetable/chicken broth

½ cup freshly grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese

1 tsp Mediterranean herb mix (oregano, thyme, and basil)

A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)

Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Directions

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, sea salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Heat the olive oil in a wide pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and tender. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, melt the butter (or add a touch more olive oil).

Add the garlic and sauté gently for about a minute, just until aromatic—be careful not to let it brown.

Pour in the white wine or broth, stirring to lift any flavor from the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.

Add the cream and stir gently. Sprinkle in the grated cheese, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 3–4 minutes, until it thickens slightly and becomes velvety.

Return the shrimp to the pan, letting them bathe in the sauce for a couple more minutes until everything is warmed through and full of flavor.

Finish with a generous handful of chopped parsley.

Serve alongside warm crusty bread, lemon-herb rice, or your favorite pasta for a satisfying Mediterranean meal.