Shrimp Oreganata is a classic Italian-American seafood dish renowned for its succulent shrimp topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb mixture infused with garlic, oregano, and other aromatics. Baked in a rich white wine and butter sauce, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

Shrimp and Topping
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-seasoned)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Sauce
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Lemon wedges

Directions:

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, oregano, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix until evenly moistened.
Arrange the Shrimp:
Place shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Add the Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add white wine and stir well. Pour the mixture over the shrimp in the baking dish.
Top with Breadcrumbs:
Sprinkle the prepared breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp.
Bake:
Bake the dish for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Broil for a Golden Crust:
Turn the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden topping.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy with pasta, crusty bread, or a side salad.

Nutrients (Per Serving):

Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 20 g
Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 450 mg

This elegant and easy dish brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table. Perfect for seafood lovers, Shrimp Oreganata is sure to impress!

Shrimp Oreganata: A Classic Italian-American Seafood Dish

Shrimp Oreganata is a delightful Italian-American recipe that has stood the test of time. Known for its irresistible combination of tender shrimp, crispy breadcrumb topping, and a buttery white wine sauce, this dish offers a balance of simplicity and sophistication. Its flavors pay homage to Mediterranean culinary traditions, making it a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. While the dish’s preparation is straightforward, its presentation and flavor make it ideal for anything from casual weeknight dinners to elegant dinner parties.

The Origin of Shrimp Oreganata

The roots of Shrimp Oreganata lie in Italian-American cuisine, which emerged as Italian immigrants adapted their homeland’s recipes to the ingredients available in the United States. The term “oregano” in Oreganata hints at the dish’s signature herb, which plays a pivotal role in Mediterranean cooking. Oregano’s warm, slightly peppery aroma pairs perfectly with seafood, enhancing the natural sweetness of shrimp while adding a touch of earthiness.

Though similar dishes may be found in Italy, Shrimp Oreganata reflects the creativity of Italian-Americans, who frequently blended traditional Italian methods with New World ingredients. The breadcrumb topping, reminiscent of southern Italy’s cucina povera (peasant cooking), adds texture and depth to this dish, transforming simple shrimp into a gourmet experience.

Why Shrimp Oreganata Stands Out

A Balance of Flavors and Textures: Shrimp Oreganata offers a harmonious blend of flavors. The delicate, slightly sweet shrimp serve as the base, while the breadcrumbs add a crunchy, savory crust. Garlic, oregano, and parsley provide aromatic depth, and the white wine and butter sauce brings richness and brightness.
Nutritional Value: Shrimp Oreganata is not just delicious but also nutritious. Shrimp are high in protein, low in calories, and rich in vitamins and minerals like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Combined with the olive oil and fresh herbs, this dish aligns well with the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet.
Versatility: This dish is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to suit different occasions or preferences. It can be served as an appetizer, paired with pasta for a main course, or enjoyed with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A light salad or a side of roasted vegetables complements the dish beautifully.
Ease of Preparation: Despite its gourmet appeal, Shrimp Oreganata is easy to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients and simple steps. Its quick baking time makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights, while the elegant presentation ensures it shines on special occasions.

Culinary Techniques in Shrimp Oreganata

The dish showcases several classic cooking techniques:

Baking with Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs, often Italian-seasoned, form the topping that crisps up during baking. The breadcrumbs absorb the flavors of garlic, oregano, and olive oil, creating a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp.
Deglazing with Wine: The white wine adds acidity and depth to the sauce, balancing the richness of the butter. This step, a hallmark of Italian cooking, enhances the dish’s complexity while keeping it light.
Broiling: A brief stint under the broiler achieves a perfectly golden crust, ensuring the dish looks as good as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Oreganata pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

Pasta: Linguine or angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan makes an excellent companion to Shrimp Oreganata.
Crusty Bread: Use freshly baked bread to scoop up the white wine and butter sauce for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Side Salads: A crisp Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs complement the dish beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Oreganata

Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and presentation. Frozen shrimp can work well if properly thawed.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and oregano elevate the dish, adding vibrant flavors and a pop of color.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can result in a rubbery texture. Bake just until they turn pink and opaque.
Customize the Breadcrumb Mixture: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor profile.

Variations of Shrimp Oreganata

While the classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are many ways to personalize Shrimp Oreganata:

Seafood Oreganata: Replace or supplement the shrimp with scallops, clams, or mussels for a mixed seafood dish.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery kick.

Conclusion

Shrimp Oreganata is a timeless Italian-American recipe that combines simplicity with sophistication. Its combination of tender shrimp, crispy breadcrumb topping, and aromatic white wine sauce makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a comforting weeknight meal, Shrimp Oreganata brings the warmth and flavors of the Mediterranean to your table.

Its ease of preparation, versatility, and nutritional benefits ensure it remains a favorite among seafood lovers. Experiment with variations to make it your own, and pair it with your favorite sides to create a memorable dining experience. For those seeking to elevate their seafood repertoire, Shrimp Oreganata is a must-try dish that never fails to impress.

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Shrimp Oreganata