If you’re looking for a dish that’s as simple as it is flavorful, Lemon Garlic Shrimp is the perfect choice.
This delightful seafood dish combines the rich, savory taste of garlic with the refreshing zest of lemon, creating a light yet satisfying meal.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe can be on your table in just 15 minutes.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, making it a go-to option for any occasion.
What is Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a quick and easy seafood dish where shrimp are sautéed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce and brightened up with fresh lemon juice.
The garlic and lemon blend together to form a deliciously aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp.
The dish is often seasoned with a few additional ingredients such as olive oil, parsley, and red pepper flakes to enhance the overall flavor profile.
It’s a meal that’s full of flavor yet light enough to enjoy on its own or as part of a larger meal.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Lemon Garlic Shrimp is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. Here’s why you’ll love this dish:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 20 minutes, it’s the perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh lemon creates a mouthwatering, zesty sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp.
- Healthy: Shrimp is low in fat and high in protein, while lemon adds a burst of vitamin C, making this dish a nutritious option.
- Versatile: Whether you serve it with pasta, rice, or as a topping for a salad, Lemon Garlic Shrimp can be enjoyed in countless ways.
- Impressive and Delicious: Despite being easy to make, this dish is sure to impress family, friends, or guests with its vibrant flavors and elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- Shrimp: About 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen).
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves of fresh garlic, minced.
- Butter: 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter for sautéing.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for added richness.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest from one lemon for the perfect balance of citrus flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat (optional).
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish and an extra pop of color.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish:
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A large, non-stick skillet works best for sautéing the shrimp and making the garlic butter sauce.
- Tongs or Spatula: For flipping the shrimp as they cook to ensure they’re evenly sautéed.
- Knife and Cutting Board: To mince the garlic and zest the lemon.
- Measuring Spoons: To ensure the right balance of ingredients for flavor.
- Serving Dish: To plate your finished Lemon Garlic Shrimp, ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Ingredients:
Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t already. Mince the garlic and zest the lemon. Cut the lemon in half and set aside for juicing later. Chop the fresh parsley for garnish.
Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add Lemon Flavor:
Once the garlic is fragrant, squeeze the juice from the lemon halves into the skillet, making sure to catch any seeds. Add the lemon zest and stir the sauce to combine.
Combine Shrimp with Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce, making sure they are evenly coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Season and Garnish:
Taste the sauce and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for color and added freshness.
Serve:
Serve the Lemon Garlic Shrimp immediately, either on its own or over a bed of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp yield the best results. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess water in the skillet.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
- Balance the Lemon: For the perfect balance of lemon flavor, use both the juice and the zest. The zest contains essential oils that add a fragrant citrus note to the dish.
- Add a Little Heat: If you enjoy a little spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes when making the garlic butter sauce for a mild heat that complements the garlic and lemon perfectly.
- Customize the Sauce: If you like a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end to create a rich, velvety finish.
Health Benefits of Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Lemon Garlic Shrimp not only tastes amazing, but it also offers several health benefits:
- Low in Calories: Shrimp is naturally low in calories, making it a great choice for those watching their calorie intake. A 3-ounce serving of shrimp contains around 80 calories.
- High in Protein: Shrimp is a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Garlic contains sulfur compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It can also support heart health by helping lower cholesterol levels.
- Packed with Vitamins: Lemon provides a healthy dose of vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and promotes healthy skin.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil, used in the recipe for sautéing, contains monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.
How to Store and Reheat Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Storing Lemon Garlic Shrimp:
- Refrigeration: Allow the shrimp to cool to room temperature before storing. Place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the cooked shrimp. Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring there’s no excess air inside. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Lemon Garlic Shrimp:
- Stovetop: To reheat, place the shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of olive oil or butter. Gently heat the shrimp until warmed through, being careful not to overcook them.
- Microwave: Place the shrimp in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated thoroughly.
- Oven: You can also reheat the shrimp in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Note: Since shrimp cooks quickly, it’s essential to avoid reheating them for too long to preserve their tender texture.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a perfect blend of savory and citrus flavors that is both easy to prepare and packed with health benefits.
Whether you serve it with pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish, it’s sure to impress your guests or provide a satisfying meal for yourself.
With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, this dish can become a regular part of your dinner rotation.
Remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste and explore different ways to enjoy this delicious shrimp dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
- Can I make this recipe without butter? Absolutely! You can use olive oil or another plant-based fat as a substitute for butter to make the dish dairy-free.
- How can I make the dish spicier? If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the garlic butter sauce.
- Can I make Lemon Garlic Shrimp in advance? You can cook and store the shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best when fresh, as reheating shrimp too much can make them tough.
- What side dishes go well with Lemon Garlic Shrimp? Lemon Garlic Shrimp pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or garlic bread.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet (12-inch or larger)
- 1 Garlic Press (Optional, for mincing garlic)
- 1 Small Bowl (For mixing the sauce)
- Tongs or a Spoon (For flipping shrimp)
- Measuring Spoons and Cup (For accurate measurements)
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 Lemon zested and juiced
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, ensuring they are fully thawed if using frozen shrimp. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
- Cook the Shrimp: Once the butter has melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Combine the Shrimp and Sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the lemon garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy with pasta, rice, or vegetables of your choice.
Notes
- Shrimp Size: You can use medium or large shrimp for this recipe. The cook time may vary slightly depending on the size of the shrimp.
- Butter Substitute: If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute butter with extra olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
- Customization: You can add other seasonings such as thyme, oregano, or basil for added flavor. For a spicy kick, try adding a bit more red pepper flakes or some diced fresh chili.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. For a low-carb option, try serving it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
