Garlic Basil Shrimp Farrotto is a creamy, hearty dish that combines the nutty texture of farro (a whole grain similar to rice or risotto) with tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil. The farrotto (a twist on risotto) is cooked slowly, absorbing the flavors of garlic and broth until it becomes rich and creamy. The shrimp are sautéed to perfection and then mixed into the dish, adding a lovely seafood element that complements the earthy farro. The fresh basil provides a burst of herbal brightness to balance the richness.
I first made Garlic Basil Shrimp Farrotto when I was craving something comforting yet a little different from traditional risotto, and it turned out amazing! The farro has a delightful chewiness that pairs so well with the succulent shrimp and aromatic garlic. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can swap the shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version. A squeeze of lemon over the top adds a fresh, zesty finish. Garlic Basil Shrimp Farrotto is a perfect dish for an elegant dinner or a cozy night in when you’re craving something both indulgent and nourishing.
Perfect for:
- Elegant dinners
- Seafood lovers
- Quick weeknight meals
- Special occasions
- Garlic and basil enthusiasts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Garlic Basil Shrimp Farrotto will become your new favorite dish:
- Bold Garlic Flavor: The garlic brings an irresistible savory depth to the dish.
- Fresh Basil: Brightens up the flavors with a touch of freshness and fragrance.
- Tender Shrimp: The shrimp are cooked to perfection, juicy and tender in every bite.
- Nutty Farro: The farro adds a wholesome, chewy texture that’s both satisfying and filling.
- One-Pot Wonder: It’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup.
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can swap shrimp for another protein or add extra veggies.
- Balanced Flavors: The garlic and basil blend beautifully with the creamy farro, creating a harmonious dish.
- Low in Carbs: A great alternative to traditional risotto for a lighter option.
- Impressive Presentation: The combination of vibrant shrimp and farro makes for an eye-catching dish.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
For the Farrotto:
- 1 cup farro, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Ingredient Highlights
- Farro: This whole grain adds a chewy texture and is a great source of fiber and protein.
- Shrimp: A low-calorie, high-protein seafood choice that cooks quickly and adds a burst of flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Gives the dish an aromatic and herbal punch that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
- Parmesan: Adds a creamy, savory richness that ties the dish together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Finish Shrimp: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Set aside.
Prepare the Farrotto:
- Cook Farro: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the farro and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until tender but still chewy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Combine Farro: Stir in the cooked farro, mixing well with the onions and wine. Let it heat through for 2 minutes.
- Add Parmesan and Basil: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve:
- Toss Together: Gently fold the shrimp mixture into the farrotto, ensuring the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Serve: Spoon the farrotto onto plates and garnish with extra basil, if desired. Serve warm.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Garlic Basil Shrimp Farrotto:
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a light mixed green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- On Special Occasions: Perfect for a celebratory dinner or a date night at home.
- As a Lunch: Leftovers make a great lunch the next day.
- With Extra Vegetables: Add spinach, peas, or tomatoes for more texture and flavor.
- For Family Dinner: A quick and easy dish the whole family will enjoy.
- With Lemon Wedges: Serve with additional lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.
- As a Dinner Party Dish: Impress your guests with this elegant and delicious meal.
- With Parmesan Crisps: Add a crunchy topping with homemade Parmesan crisps for added texture.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Al Dente Farro: Cook the farro until it’s tender but still has a slight bite to it for the best texture.
- Add More Herbs: Feel free to add extra fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for additional flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially with salt and pepper, before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Farrotto: Swap shrimp for mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meatless version.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Farrotto: Add more lemon zest and juice for a citrusy kick.
- Spicy Shrimp Farrotto: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Crispy Shrimp Farrotto: Fry the shrimp instead of sautéing them for a crispy texture.
- Tomato Basil Shrimp Farrotto: Stir in diced tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Coconut Shrimp Farrotto: Add coconut milk to the farrotto for a creamy, tropical flavor.
- Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in garlic butter instead of olive oil for a richer taste.
Special Equipment
- Large Skillet: To cook the shrimp and sauté the garlic and onion.
- Medium Saucepan: To cook the farro in broth.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring and combining ingredients.
- Tongs: To handle the shrimp easily when cooking and mixing.
- Grater: For fresh Parmesan and lemon zest.
FAQ Section
- Can I use quinoa instead of farro?
Yes, quinoa can be used, though the texture will differ slightly. - How long does this dish last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the farrotto?
Farrotto can be frozen, but the texture of the farro may change upon reheating. - What other seafood can I use?
You can substitute shrimp with scallops, crab, or even salmon for a different flavor profile. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free farro or substitute with rice or another gluten-free grain. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, omit the Parmesan and use a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients for a larger crowd. - How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque; they cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can swap the shrimp for grilled vegetables or tofu. - What can I serve this with?
A light salad or roasted vegetables would pair beautifully with this dish.
Conclusion
Garlic Basil Shrimp Farrotto is a flavorful and creamy dish that combines succulent shrimp with farro, a hearty ancient grain, cooked in a rich garlic and basil-infused broth. The farrotto (a creamy version of risotto made with farro instead of rice) has a satisfying texture and absorbs all the delicious flavors of garlic, fresh basil, and the natural sweetness from the shrimp. This dish is a perfect balance of light and comforting, with a burst of herbaceous freshness from the basil and a hint of richness from the shrimp.
The creamy farrotto provides a wonderful base for the plump shrimp, and the garlic adds a savory depth while the basil offers a refreshing, aromatic finish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone satisfied.
I can’t wait to see how your Garlic Basil Shrimp Farrotto turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!