Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe: A Tangy Seafood Sensation

Summers call for light, zesty lemon garlic shrimp that dance with bright Mediterranean flavors.

Crisp aromas drift through coastal kitchens, promising delectable moments ahead.

Succulent seafood meets punchy ingredients in a quick culinary adventure.

Fresh herbs and tangy citrus create magic on your plate.

Simple ingredients combine effortlessly, making restaurant-quality dishes accessible in your own kitchen.

Skilled cooks and kitchen novices alike can master this elegant meal.

Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp to Savor

• Speedy Seafood Delight: Dive into a restaurant-quality dish that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner cravings.
• Minimal Ingredient Magic: Requires just a handful of pantry staples, making this recipe budget-friendly and accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor-Packed Protein Punch: Combines zesty lemon and aromatic garlic to transform simple shrimp into a mouthwatering meal that will impress family and friends with minimal effort.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Easily pairs with rice, pasta, or salad, making it a flexible option for quick lunches, elegant dinners, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients Needed for Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Shrimp: Large, succulent seafood that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully.

• Garlic, Salt, Pepper: Classic flavor enhancers that bring depth and warmth to the shrimp.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a bright, green finishing touch to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Provides a smooth cooking base with a subtle Mediterranean flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy, citrusy brightness that complements the shrimp's natural sweetness.

How to Prepare Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Warm Up the Skillet

Heat olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium heat. Drop in the minced garlic and let it dance around for about half a minute until the kitchen fills with its amazing aroma.

Step 2: Welcome the Shrimp

Gently place the shrimp into the skillet, creating a single layer. Let them sizzle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they transform into a beautiful pink color and become completely opaque.

Step 3: Add Zesty Flavor

Splash in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle salt and pepper over the shrimp. Stir everything together so each shrimp gets coated with the delicious seasoning.

Let it cook for another minute to blend all the flavors.

Step 4: Create a Stunning Presentation

Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate immediately.

Shower the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a bright, herbal touch that makes the meal look restaurant-worthy.

Tips to Perfect Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Swap regular shrimp for jumbo or medium sizes depending on your preference, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture, ensuring they are deveined and peeled before cooking.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or include white wine for extra depth in the sauce.
• Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels before cooking to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear without excess moisture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, reheating gently to prevent overcooking.

Flavor Variations on Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Mediterranean Herb Shrimp: Replace parsley with fresh basil and oregano, adding a zesty Mediterranean flavor profile to the dish.
• Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over shrimp before cooking, creating a bold and fiery version with kick and heat.
• Low-Carb Keto Shrimp: Swap olive oil for grass-fed butter and serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides for a ketogenic-friendly meal.
• Gluten-Free Seafood Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and use tamari instead of traditional seasonings for sensitive dietary needs.

Pairings That Elevate Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

• Pair this zesty shrimp dish with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, whose bright acidity and citrus notes perfectly complement the lemon and garlic profile.
• Create a light, aromatic base by preparing herbed couscous that absorbs the shrimp's flavorful juices and provides a delicate texture contrast to the succulent seafood.
• Craft a simple salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and herbs, which adds refreshing crispness and balances the rich, garlicky shrimp.

Storing Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Properly

• Refrigerate: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Microwave Reheat: Place shrimp on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle with a few drops of water, and heat in 15-second intervals to prevent overcooking. Stir gently between intervals.
• Skillet Warm-Up: Quickly reheat shrimp in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes, turning gently to maintain moisture and prevent rubbery texture.
• Avoid Freezing: Shrimp loses its delicate texture when frozen, so consume within 2 days for best quality and taste.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking. Make sure to remove excess moisture to help achieve a nice sear.

• How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, and curl slightly. Avoid overcooking, as they can become tough and rubbery.

• What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Medium to large-sized shrimp work great. Peeled and deveined shrimp save time and make preparation easier.

• Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. It’s a simple, classic lemon garlic flavor profile that’s mild and bright.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

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4.8 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Zesty lemon garlic shrimp recipe brings Mediterranean coastal flavors to home kitchens with simple ingredients and quick preparation. Succulent shrimp marinated in garlic, lemon, and herbs promise a delightful meal you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound (454 g) shrimp (large, peeled and deveined)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tbsps (45 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
• Juice of 2 large lemons
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, allowing the pan to become evenly heated.
2. Introduce minced garlic to the oil, gently sautéing for approximately 30 seconds until the aroma becomes pronounced and fragrant.
3. Arrange shrimp in a single, uncrowded layer across the skillet, ensuring each piece has direct contact with the heated surface.
4. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, watching for a vibrant pink color and translucent appearance that indicates perfect doneness.
5. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, then sprinkle salt and black pepper to enhance the seafood’s natural flavors.
6. Toss the shrimp gently to ensure complete and even coating with the citrusy seasoning, continuing to cook for an additional 60 seconds.
7. Remove from heat and transfer immediately to a serving plate, scattering freshly chopped parsley across the top for a bright, herbaceous finish.

Notes

• Use fresh, large shrimp for the best texture and flavor, ensuring they are deveined and peeled before cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet to help shrimp cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown sear.
• For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
• Adjust cooking time based on shrimp size – smaller shrimp need less time to prevent rubbery texture.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 160 mg