This Lemon Garlic Shrimp dish is a tasty and quick meal that bursts with flavor! Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a zesty lemon and garlic sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
It’s great for busy nights when I want something special without a lot of fuss. Just a few minutes in the pan, and dinner is ready—perfect with rice or pasta!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp make this dish delicious and visually appealing. If you’re vegetarian or don’t like seafood, you might try using tofu or chicken. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for controlling salt levels. If lactose-free, use a butter substitute like ghee or olive oil for a lighter option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, using pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can work, but fresh really elevates the dish.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice enhances taste better than bottled. If you’re out of lemons, lime juice or even a splash of vinegar can add a nice tang, but the flavor will be a little different.
Red Pepper Flakes: They add heat, but if you prefer a milder dish, you can skip them or replace with mild paprika for a touch of color without spice.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp right is key to keeping them tender and juicy. Here’s what to remember:
- Start with a hot pan. It helps to achieve that beautiful sear on the shrimp.
- Cook in a single layer. This ensures even cooking. If your pan is small, cook in batches.
- Watch the color. Shrimp change from gray to pink when cooked through. Don’t overcook; 2-3 minutes per side is usually enough.
- Using a timer can help. Set it for 2 minutes and flip the shrimp when the time’s up. This keeps you from guessing.
With these tips, you’ll have shrimp that’s flavorful and perfectly cooked every time!
Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2-3 tablespoons) and lemon slices for garnish
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes melting butter and cooking the garlic, followed by just a little time cooking the shrimp. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
Grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the butter to the pan, letting it melt completely. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown too much, just until it starts to bubble lightly.
2. Cook the Garlic:
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Make sure to stir it gently so it doesn’t burn—burnt garlic can give a bitter taste!
3. Add the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to add the shrimp! Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and if you like a little spice, sprinkle on the red pepper flakes. If the shrimp are overlapping a bit, that’s okay, just try to spread them out as much as possible.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Let the shrimp cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. You can use tongs to flip them over gently when they’re ready. This is where the magic happens—they will start looking beautiful!
5. Add Lemon Juice:
Once the shrimp are cooked, pour the fresh lemon juice over them. Toss them gently in the skillet to ensure they’re all coated well in that zesty flavor. Allow them to cook for just another minute to heat through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove your skillet from the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp and arrange some lemon slices on top for a nice touch. Serve the shrimp warm and enjoy it with crusty bread, over rice, or with a side of your favorite vegetables. Yum!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can do this by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain and pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before adding them to the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute olive oil or coconut oil for the butter. Keep in mind that using olive oil will give the dish a different flavor profile, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as shrimp can become rubbery.
What Sides Pair Well with Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the juice, served over a bed of rice, or alongside steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A simple salad with a citrus vinaigrette would also complement the flavors nicely!
