If you love vibrant, fresh flavors that come together quickly and effortlessly, then you are in for a treat with the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe. This dish bursts with the zesty brightness of lemon, the rich aroma of garlic, and the perfect hint of buttery goodness, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re whipping this up for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, the balance of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy notes in this shrimp recipe will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to creating the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe. Each element plays its role perfectly, from the plump shrimp that provide tender texture to the lemon that brings vibrant acidity to lift the dish.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for fresh or fully thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps sauté the garlic perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a strong and aromatic punch that defines this dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle kick that balances the citrusy brightness beautifully.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Provides depth and helps create a luscious sauce.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Infuses the shrimp with fresh, tangy brightness.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Intensifies the lemon flavor without adding more acidity.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a burst of color and fresh, herbaceous notes at the end.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
How to Make Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by seasoning your peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures the shrimp are perfectly seasoned from the very beginning, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through once cooked.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you want a touch of heat). Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden, releasing those incredible aromas that make you drool.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they turn a lovely pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook—shrimp become rubbery if left too long. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside for the sauce-making.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Use a spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom—these add amazing flavor to your sauce. Then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter. Stir continuously until the butter melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked shrimp into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly. Let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes so the shrimp soak up those bright, buttery flavors. Finally, sprinkle on the fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Serve Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a fresh color contrast but also a subtle herbal brightness that complements the lemony sauce perfectly. You can also add a few lemon wedges on the side if you want an extra citrus punch at the table.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with simple, comforting sides like fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a crisp green salad. Pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic also works beautifully, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the shrimp over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles or alongside crusty baguette slices to mop up every last bit of the sauce. You could even stuff the shrimp and sauce into warm pita pockets for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain tasty for up to 2 days, although shrimp are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their tender texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, shrimp often lose some texture once thawed, so it’s best to freeze only if necessary. Place the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers and use within a month for optimal flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, use a gentle approach—warm the shrimp gently on the stovetop over low heat just until heated through. Avoid high heat or microwaving directly, which can toughen the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps them sear properly and reduces excess moisture in the skillet.
Is it okay to skip the red pepper flakes?
Yes, red pepper flakes add a lovely heat but are entirely optional. If you prefer no spice, simply leave them out without sacrificing the overall flavor.
Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes the biggest difference for the bright, fresh flavor in the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe. However, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, though it may impart a slightly different taste.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you prefer, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt can work. The broth adds depth but isn’t absolutely necessary if you don’t have any on hand.
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! Just be sure to use a large enough skillet so everything cooks evenly. Adjust cook times slightly to ensure shrimp cook through without overcrowding the pan.
Final Thoughts
There is just something so comforting yet exciting about the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe that makes it an absolute must-try for anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors with minimal fuss. Give it a whirl, and I promise you’ll have a new favorite to share with family and friends in no time. This dish is pure joy on a plate, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s called the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe!
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Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe features succulent large shrimp sautéed to perfection in a fragrant garlic and lemon butter sauce, enhanced with a touch of red pepper flakes and fresh parsley. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s bursting with bright citrus flavors and perfect for a light, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Seasoning
- 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 generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer while scraping the bottom of the pan to release all flavorful browned bits.
- Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter until the butter completely melts and the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
- Combine and Reheat: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat them fully with the lemon garlic sauce.
- Final Cook: Cook the shrimp in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes until they are heated through and well coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a bright, herby finish before serving immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Serve this shrimp over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
- To make it gluten-free, confirm the chicken broth is gluten-free or substitute with vegetable broth.
