Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp

As I stood in my kitchen, the sun streaming through the window, I craved something light yet full of flavor. That’s when I decided to whip up Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp. The smell of fresh garlic mingling with the zest of lemon is an experience that transports you to a coastal paradise with each bite. You know those evenings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen? This dish will do just that. It’s not only quick to prepare, but it also brings a fresh, vibrant flair to your dinner table.

Imagine gathering around with friends or family, sharing laughter and stories while savoring perfectly cooked shrimp that are bursting with flavor. I’ve made this dish countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp always finds its way into my meal rotation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home, bringing a sense of celebration to even the simplest of occasions.

Every bite of this dish is a reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. The simplicity lies in the harmony of fresh shrimp, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon. So let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this delightful meal together!

What’s In This Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp

When preparing Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp, it’s essential to have fresh, quality ingredients. The star players in this recipe are jumbo shrimp, garlic, lemon, and olive oil. Together, they create a delightful dish that’s packed with flavor. Each ingredient works harmoniously to elevate the dish, making it a favorite in my kitchen.

• 1 lb. jumbo shrimp: The main protein in the dish, jumbo shrimp should be fresh or properly thawed if frozen. Their sweet, tender meat pairs perfectly with the zesty sauce.
• 2 T olive oil: A staple in many kitchens, olive oil adds richness and helps to sauté the shrimp to perfection.
• 1 T butter: Adds a luxurious taste and helps to create a silky sauce, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• 2 T finely minced garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic kick that flavors the shrimp beautifully.
• 2 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice: This ingredient brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter and olive oil.
• 1 T lemon zest: Adds an extra punch of lemon flavor, enhancing the freshness of the dish.
• Sea salt: To taste, this simple seasoning is vital for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.

Recipe Directions for Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp

Making Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp is a straightforward process, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Let’s break it down step by step!

1. Start by preparing your shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, ensure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, drain the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that nice sear.
2. Next, zest one large lemon using a microplane or grater, being careful to only remove the yellow part of the peel. This will help release those essential oils that add flavor. Then, squeeze the juice from the same lemon until you have at least two tablespoons of juice.
3. Finely mince the garlic cloves until you have about two tablespoons of minced garlic. This will infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.
4. In a large heavy pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Once hot, add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, creating a rich base for the shrimp.
5. When the oil and butter are ready, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about one to two minutes or until they begin to turn pink at the edges. This is a sign they’re cooking perfectly!
6. Carefully turn the shrimp over, and add the minced garlic to the pan. Continue cooking for another three to four minutes, or until the shrimp are barely firm and a lovely pink color. Be cautious not to overcook them; they will continue to cook a bit after you remove them from the heat.
7. Once the shrimp are done, turn off the heat and add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and sea salt to taste. Stir gently to coat the shrimp evenly with the sauce.
8. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Expert Tips about Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp

Cooking is all about discovery and learning! Here are some expert tips to ensure your Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp turns out perfectly every time.

• Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.
• Freezing: If you have extra cooked shrimp, they can be frozen in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Consider serving with a side of pasta for a heartier meal!
• Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or fresh herbs to customize your dish. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick!
• Garnishing: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp, the options are endless! Here are some delightful ideas to inspire you:

• Serve over pasta: Toss the cooked shrimp with spaghetti or linguine, adding a sprinkle of parmesan for an impressive meal.
• Accompany with rice: Fluffy white rice or quinoa works beautifully, soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Light salad pairing: A refreshing Greek salad or arugula salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly.
• Perfect for summer gatherings: This dish is ideal for outdoor BBQs or picnics, bringing a taste of summer to your table.
• Great for meal prep: Consider making a big batch for weekday lunches. It’s easy to reheat and still tastes delicious!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp is a fantastic dish that captures the essence of fresh flavors in a quick and simple way. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special and indulgent. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household, perfect for any occasion!

Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp

Indulge in the ultimate flavor experience with Easy Garlic and Lemon Shrimp. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, combining succulent shrimp with the vibrant taste of lemon and aromatic garlic. It's a delightful, healthy choice that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!

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Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb. jumbo shrimp thawed if frozen
• 2 T olive oil
• 1 T butter
• 2 T finely minced garlic
• 2 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 1 T lemon zest or a little less if you're not that fond of lemon zest
• to taste sea salt to taste (I did not use much salt)

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. If using frozen shrimp thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Drain shrimp and pat dry.
2. Zest one large lemon and then squeeze the juice to yield at least 2 T juice and close to 1 T lemon zest.
3. Finely mince garlic cloves to make 2 T minced garlic.
4. Heat the olive oil over medium high heat and then melt the butter, using a large heavy pan. (I used a pan that was nice enough to serve the shrimp from, which helps keep them hot.)
5. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook just until they start to turn pink at the edges, not more than 1 to 2 minutes.
6. Turn shrimp over quickly and add the minced garlic. Continue to cook until shrimp are barely firm and slightly pink, probably not more than 3 to 4 minutes more. (Don’t overcook; the shrimp will continue to cook a little in the hot pan.)
7. Turn off heat and add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt as desired and stir to coat shrimp.
8. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.
• Tip 2: If you have extra cooked shrimp, they can be frozen in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Consider serving with a side of pasta for a heartier meal!
• Tip 4: Feel free to add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or fresh herbs to customize your dish. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick!
• Tip 5: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices for a pop of color and extra flavor.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.