This Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a tasty dish packed with fresh flavors. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a creamy garlic sauce with a zesty lemon kick—simple and oh-so-good!
You’ll love how quick it is to make! Just toss it all in a pan, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time. Perfect over pasta or rice, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser! 🍋🦐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are key for this dish. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp works just as well—just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking. You could also substitute shrimp with scallops or even chicken for a twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead. Just remember, butter gives a lovely flavor that’s hard to beat!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must for maximum flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work in a smaller quantity, but fresh is best!
Lemon: Fresh lemon is key for brightness. If you have a lemon on hand, go for it! However, bottled lemon juice can be a quick substitute, though it won’t offer the same fresh zing.
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor. If you like it spicier, try using regular paprika or cayenne pepper instead to dial up the heat.
How Do You Make the Perfect Garlic Lemon Sauce?
The garlic lemon sauce is what brings this dish to life! Start by ensuring your garlic is minced finely so it cooks evenly without burning. When you add it to melted butter, don’t let it sit for too long; around 30 seconds is perfect to get that garlicky scent.
- After adding the lemon slices, allow them to simmer. This helps release the oils and juice, enhancing the sauce with a fresh lemony flavor.
- When returning the shrimp to the pan, gently toss them in the sauce to coat thoroughly without overcooking them. Just a minute is enough!
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth when you put back the shrimp.
This technique guarantees a balance of flavors with every bite of juicy shrimp! Enjoy cooking and savoring your Lemon Garlic Shrimp! 🍋🦐
Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra lemon juice from half a lemon)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 20-25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cool water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if you’re wanting a bit of heat.
2. Heat the Pan:
Grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt and start to bubble gently.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet, making sure they are in a single layer for even cooking. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side. You want them to turn pink and get a light golden sear. Flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Lemon Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. When it melts, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but take care not to let it turn brown as that can make it bitter.
5. Add Lemon Slices and Juice:
Now it’s time for the lemon! Add the thin lemon slices and squeeze the juice from half a lemon into the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, allowing all those flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Return Shrimp to Pan:
Carefully add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Give everything a gentle toss so the shrimp are well-coated in the lemon garlic sauce. Cook together for another minute just to heat everything through.
7. Finish with Parsley:
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve Immediately:
Serve your Lemon Garlic Shrimp right away while it’s hot! It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the crispy seared edges!
Enjoy your flavorful, vibrant Lemon Garlic Shrimp! 🍤🍋🤍
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook the shrimp!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, you can increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic lemon sauce. Adjust the amount according to your preference!
What Can I Serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
This dish is fantastic over pasta, rice, or even quinoa. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to drizzle some sauce over the sides to enhance the flavors!