Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a simple yet flavor-packed dish that delivers the perfect balance of zesty citrus, savory garlic, and tender shrimp. This dish is versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, main course, or even tossed with pasta for a complete meal. The bold flavors and quick preparation make it ideal for weeknight dinners or a special occasion.

Garlic shrimp has always been a popular choice in seafood recipes because of its quick cooking time and ability to absorb rich flavors. When you add lemon juice, it adds a fresh, tangy brightness that elevates the dish, making it a refreshing treat. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is easy to make and delivers delicious results every time.

Perfectly cooked shrimp combined with lemon and garlic creates a dish that’s irresistibly tasty. The best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes, so you can enjoy this flavorful meal in no time. Let’s dive into how you can make this dish and why it should become a staple in your cooking routine.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Bright and Zesty: The lemon adds a refreshing tang that balances out the richness of the garlic and shrimp, creating a light yet flavorful dish.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
• Versatile: Whether you serve it on its own, with a side of vegetables, over rice, or mixed into pasta, Lemon Garlic Shrimp can be adapted to fit your meal plans. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides.
• Healthy and Low-Calorie: With shrimp as the main ingredient, this dish is a lean protein source that’s low in calories but high in flavor. The lemon and garlic add minimal calories while maximizing the taste.
• Perfect for Seafood Lovers: If you love seafood, this recipe highlights shrimp, a popular and accessible seafood option. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a solo meal, this dish is bound to please.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 220-250 calories per serving, depending on the shrimp size and cooking methods used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220-250 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Lemon Garlic Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, pat the shrimp dry using paper towels to ensure they sear properly. If you’re using fresh shrimp, ensure they are peeled and deveined before cooking.

Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. This will enhance the natural flavors of the shrimp and complement the garlic and lemon.

2. Heat the Olive Oil and Butter

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the butter to the skillet (optional). The butter adds a rich, velvety texture to the dish and pairs wonderfully with the garlic and lemon.

Swirl the oil and butter around the skillet to coat it evenly, ensuring it creates a nice base for cooking the shrimp.

3. Cook the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter and unpleasant. Stir it continuously to ensure it’s evenly distributed and begins to soften.

The garlic should release a delicious aroma, which will infuse the oil and butter with flavor, setting the stage for the shrimp.

4. Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet, arranging them in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when they’re fully cooked, which is a good indicator that they’re ready to be removed from the heat.

Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Shrimp cook quickly, so monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.

5. Add the Lemon Juice and Zest

Once the shrimp are cooked through, add the juice and zest of the lemon to the skillet. Stir the mixture gently to combine, ensuring that the shrimp are well-coated with the bright, tangy lemon flavor.

The lemon juice helps to cut through the richness of the garlic and oil, balancing the flavors while giving the shrimp a fresh, zesty finish. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste, depending on how tangy you prefer the dish.

6. Add Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. This will add a subtle spicy kick that complements the other bold flavors. This step is optional, so feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder version of the dish.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat once the shrimp are fully cooked and the lemon and garlic have come together. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. The parsley also provides a mild herbal note that balances the richness of the garlic and butter.

Serve the Lemon Garlic Shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side for added citrusy brightness. This dish is delicious on its own or paired with a variety of sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye on them while cooking.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic will give the dish a more robust flavor than pre-minced garlic. Garlic that’s freshly minced has a better texture and will infuse the oil and shrimp with more flavor.
• Adjust the Lemon Flavor: Depending on how tangy you like your dish, you can add more or less lemon juice. Start with one lemon and taste as you go, adding more if you want a more pronounced citrus flavor.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a key component of this dish, opt for a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil. It will add a more complex flavor to the dish and make a noticeable difference in the overall taste.
• Make It Creamy (Optional): For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking. Stir it into the skillet to create a rich, velvety sauce that will coat the shrimp beautifully.
• Use Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. It also helps balance out the richness of the garlic and butter, adding a mild herbal note that brightens the flavors.

Variations of Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the Lemon Garlic Shrimp over pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine. Toss the pasta with the shrimp and the flavorful lemon garlic sauce for a complete dish.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus: Add some sautéed asparagus to the skillet for a healthy and flavorful vegetable side. The asparagus pairs beautifully with the lemon and garlic, making it a great addition to the dish.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers: For a fun twist, thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill them for a smoky flavor. The lemon and garlic marinade will infuse the shrimp, and grilling them will give them a slightly charred, delicious crust.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp Salad: For a lighter version, serve the Lemon Garlic Shrimp on a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. The shrimp adds protein to the salad, making it a healthy and filling meal.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice: Serve the shrimp over a bed of white rice, brown rice, or quinoa to make it a complete meal. The rice will soak up the flavorful garlic-lemon sauce, making every bite satisfying.

Storage and Shelf Life

Lemon Garlic Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Store the leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp again.
• Freeze: While shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers for up to 1 month. Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag, and be sure to remove as much air as possible. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

Side Dishes and

Pairings for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pair this dish with complementary sides to create a satisfying meal:

• Rice Pilaf: Serve the shrimp with a side of rice pilaf or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful garlic-lemon sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or zucchini make for a healthy and colorful side dish that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great substitute for traditional rice and adds a light, healthy base for the shrimp.
• Garlic Bread: Serve the shrimp with warm, toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese complements the zesty shrimp with its cool, tangy flavors.

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Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a bright, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh lemon, savory garlic, and tender shrimp, this recipe brings a delicious burst of flavor to the table in just 15 minutes. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, main course, or over pasta or rice, it’s sure to impress anyone who tastes it. This dish is healthy, quick, and versatile, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner. Enjoy the delicious simplicity of Lemon Garlic Shrimp today!