If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with bright, zesty flavors and a garlicky punch, look no further than the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe. This dazzling seafood delight brings together plump, juicy shrimp sautéed to perfection in a buttery lemon sauce, infused with fresh garlic and a hint of spice. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms a simple weeknight meal into a celebration of vibrant tastes and irresistible aromas that fill your kitchen and heart alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a distinct role in balancing freshness, richness, and a touch of warmth, making the dish both comforting and exciting.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, offering a tender, juicy bite with just the right amount of seafood sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sauté garlic and shrimp evenly while adding a subtle fruitiness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and that signature garlicky punch that defines the recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat to activate your taste buds without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce, picking up every tasty browned bit from the pan.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brings fresh, tangy brightness that elevates every mouthful.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Intensifies lemon flavor with fragrant oils from the peel.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts into silky richness, perfectly rounding out the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh herbal note and lovely green contrast.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors seamlessly.
How to Make Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by seasoning the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned from the start, making the shrimp flavorful on their own before diving into the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your minced garlic along with red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté these gently for about a minute until you can smell that magnificent garlic aroma filling your kitchen. This fragrant base is what starts building the dish’s complex, inviting flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and are opaque. This quick sear locks in their juiciness and creates a lovely slight crust that adds texture. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to rest for a moment.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a delicate simmer. Use a spatula to scrape up any golden bits stuck to the bottom—these carry intense flavor that will enrich your sauce. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter. Keep stirring until the butter melts smoothly into this vibrant lemony broth, creating a silky sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return your cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the lemon garlic sauce. Let shrimp warm through for an additional 1 to 2 minutes so they soak up every drop of that luscious liquid goodness. Just before serving, sprinkle the dish with fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Serve Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is classic, but you can also add a few zests of lemon or a dash of finely grated Parmesan to add a little extra flair. These simple garnishes bring an extra layer of texture and visual appeal that makes the dish truly shine on the plate.
Side Dishes
This lemon garlic shrimp pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad to complement the rich yet fresh flavors. For a lighter touch, try serving it over a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles) or alongside roasted vegetables, letting the vibrant sauce tie everything together.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the shrimp atop toasted baguette slices as an appetizer or alongside a bed of linguine to create a stunning pasta dish. You could also try stuffing the shrimp and sauce into butter lettuce cups for a fun, finger-friendly option that’s perfect for sharing with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The shrimp will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two days, making it a quick and delicious second meal.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp coated in the lemon garlic sauce. Store them in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to one month. Just know that the texture may be slightly softer after thawing, but the flavors remain delightful.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of chicken broth or a bit more butter if the sauce seems thick. This method warms the dish evenly while preserving the luscious sauce and tender shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and the sauce doesn’t get watery.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, so you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking. If you prefer a mild dish, simply leave them out for a purely lemony, garlicky delight.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or even a light white wine make excellent substitutes, each adding a subtle complexity to the sauce while keeping it moist and flavorful.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe scales well. Just make sure your skillet is large enough for even cooking, or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
How long does it take to cook the shrimp?
Shrimp cook very quickly—usually 2 to 3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye and remove them as soon as they turn opaque pink.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the satisfying zing of the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe to brighten up any meal. With its effortless steps and simple ingredients, this dish becomes an instant favorite that’s sure to impress your friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how easy and delicious shrimp can be when bathed in that buttery lemon garlic goodness!
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Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe features succulent, tender shrimp cooked in a flavorful lemon-garlic butter sauce with a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect quick and easy seafood dish that balances bright citrus notes with savory garlic and butter richness. Tossed in fresh parsley, this skillet-cooked shrimp is ideal for a light weeknight dinner or impressive appetizer.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp evenly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and become opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make the Sauce: Pour chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any flavorful browned bits. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter, cooking until the butter melts and the sauce becomes silky smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them well in the lemon garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure the shrimp are heated through and fully coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp before serving to add a fresh herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor impact.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit if you prefer mild.
- Serve over rice or pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Do not overcook shrimp as they can become rubbery; remove them as soon as they turn opaque.
- For a dairy-free version, omit butter and substitute with extra olive oil.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
