Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a dish that dances on your taste buds, with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and succulent shrimp creating a flavor fiesta you won’t want to miss. Picture yourself diving into a plate of perfectly cooked shrimp, glistening with garlic-infused butter and kissed by the bright notes of lemon. The aroma wafts through the air like an inviting hug from your favorite chef.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I made Lemon Garlic Shrimp for friends during a summer barbecue. The sun was setting, and as I flipped those shrimp in the pan, laughter filled the air. It’s perfect for any occasion—dinner parties or casual weeknight meals—and promises an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Garlic Shrimp is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- The combination of fresh ingredients creates a delightful flavor profile that’s hard to resist
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table setting
- Plus, it’s super versatile; serve it over rice or pasta, or enjoy it alone as a light meal!
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp (16-20 count) for a satisfying bite; peel and devein them before cooking.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic adds depth and aroma.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; avoid bottled juice if possible.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control salt levels while adding creaminess to the sauce.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; chopped finely for garnish.
For seasoning:
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish; season to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This will help them sear nicely in the pan.
Step 2: Heat It Up
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and half of your butter. Once melted and sizzling, it’s showtime for our shrimp!
Step 3: Add Garlic
Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute—don’t let it burn unless you want your kitchen smelling like charred disappointment.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to your skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque—a beautiful transformation that signifies they’re ready!
Step 5: Squeeze That Lemon
Once cooked, remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything. Stir gently to coat those lovely shrimp with all that zesty goodness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Transfer your Lemon Garlic Shrimp onto plates or over rice/pasta—whatever floats your boat!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite as if it’s a mini-vacation on your plate!
You Must Know
- This delightful Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is not just a flavor explosion; it simplifies your weeknight dinners
- The bright, zesty flavors and enticing aromas are sure to impress anyone at your table
- Perfect for a quick meal but elegant enough for entertaining guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by marinating the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic. While they soak up the goodness, prepare your pasta or side dish. Sear the shrimp in a hot skillet for that perfect golden-brown finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe! Swap out shrimp for scallops or add vegetables like asparagus or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients. Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or dill to change the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Lemon Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over low heat to maintain tenderness without overcooking the shrimp again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Here are some expert tips to make your Lemon Garlic Shrimp shine
- First, make sure your pan is hot before adding shrimp for a nice sear
- Second, avoid overcooking—shrimp should be opaque and firm when done
- Lastly, fresh lemon juice makes all the difference in flavor
Sometimes I think my friends believe I can summon magic powers when I whip up this Lemon Garlic Shrimp; they always ask for seconds and rave about how delicious it is!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
To prepare Lemon Garlic Shrimp, you will need fresh shrimp, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, butter, parsley, salt, and pepper. Using high-quality ingredients elevates the dish’s flavor. Fresh shrimp is essential for the best texture and taste. The garlic should be minced finely to release its aroma. A mixture of lemon juice and zest adds brightness to the dish. Olive oil and butter provide a rich base, while parsley gives a fresh finish. Having these ingredients ready will ensure a quick and enjoyable cooking experience.
How long does it take to cook Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
Cooking Lemon Garlic Shrimp is quick and straightforward. From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 15 minutes in the kitchen. First, prep your ingredients; then sauté garlic in olive oil and butter until fragrant. Next, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, which usually takes around 3-5 minutes. Finally, toss in lemon juice and parsley for flavor. This rapid cooking process makes it an ideal meal for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.
Can I make Lemon Garlic Shrimp ahead of time?
While Lemon Garlic Shrimp is best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare some components ahead of time. You can marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic for up to an hour before cooking. However, it’s not recommended to fully cook the shrimp in advance because reheating may lead to a rubbery texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one day at most. Reheat gently on low heat when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
Lemon Garlic Shrimp pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Options include fluffy rice or creamy risotto for a hearty touch. You can also serve it over pasta tossed with olive oil or lemon zest for a more substantial meal. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the shrimp beautifully. For those who enjoy bread, crusty baguette slices are perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
Conclusion for Lemon Garlic Shrimp :
Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines freshness with rich flavors in just about 15 minutes of cooking time. With simple ingredients like shrimp, garlic, and lemon juice, you can create a meal that impresses family and friends alike. Ideal as a quick weeknight dinner or a festive occasion dish, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate. Remember to pair it with complementary sides like rice or salad for an unforgettable dining experience!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant dish that combines succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon for a delightful meal ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties, this recipe bursts with freshness and flavor. Serve it over rice or pasta for a satisfying and quick culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large fresh shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt olive oil with half of the butter until sizzling.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Place shrimp in a single layer in the skillet; cook for 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice, stirring gently to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving over rice or pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup cooked shrimp (170g)
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
