If you are craving something fresh, zesty, and utterly irresistible, you absolutely must try the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe. This dish brings together plump, juicy shrimp with a vibrant burst of lemon and the warm punch of garlic, creating a tantalizing symphony of flavors that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe hits all the right notes with its bright citrus tang, silky butter sauce, and a little hint of spice, making it one of my all-time favorites to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfectly balanced flavor and texture of the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe. From the ocean-fresh shrimp to the fragrant garlic and fresh parsley, everything here is about enhancing those bright, fresh flavors.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, shrimp cooks quickly and soaks up all those wonderful sauce flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the garlic without burning.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings in the rich, aromatic depth that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a gentle kick of heat that balances beautifully with the citrus.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Adds savory moisture to the pan, enhancing the sauce while keeping it light.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Gives the signature bright and tangy flavor hallmark to the recipe.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Packed with intense lemon aroma, zest elevates the freshness of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted butter creates a silky, luscious sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and cheerful green color at the end.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors into harmony.
How to Make Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by seasoning your large shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. This initial seasoning primes the shrimp, ensuring every bite is flavorful right from the start. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for a smooth texture and a clean, easy-to-eat experience.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and, if you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes. Sauté these for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn so it remains sweet and aromatic.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Now, add the seasoned shrimp to your skillet. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside — the sauce is next!
Step 4: Make the Lemony Garlic Sauce
In that same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Use your spoon to scrape up any flavorful brown bits stuck to the pan for added depth. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter, cooking until the butter has melted into a smooth, glossy sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the luscious sauce. Let everything cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes so the shrimp soak up those vibrant citrus and garlic flavors. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for that perfect burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh finish, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds color but lifts the citrus notes in the dish. You could also add a few thin slices of lemon on the side for a pretty presentation and an extra lemony kick for those who want it.
Side Dishes
The bright and buttery shrimp pairs wonderfully with a range of sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice or buttery noodles to soak up every last drop of sauce. Alternatively, a crisp green salad or lightly sautéed vegetables like asparagus or green beans will keep the meal light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the shrimp on top of creamy polenta or alongside garlic bread for a rustic, comforting meal. You can also fill a warm pita or flatbread with the shrimp and sauce for an easy, handheld delight. This recipe is as versatile as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked shrimp, but because this recipe has a delicate lemon butter sauce, it’s best to freeze the shrimp and the sauce separately if possible. Store shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months, and thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving if you want to prevent the shrimp from turning rubbery. Adding a splash of broth or lemon juice while reheating can refresh the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear properly and absorb the sauce perfectly.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you prefer, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt can work in a pinch, though chicken broth adds a nice depth of flavor.
Is red pepper flakes optional or essential?
It’s totally optional! Adding red pepper flakes gives a lovely subtle heat, but you can skip it if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and avoid any sides containing gluten.
How can I make this recipe more garlicky?
If you are a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two. Just watch out for burning the garlic in the pan as that can cause bitterness.
Final Thoughts
This Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple, quality ingredients can come together to make something truly spectacular. It’s bright, buttery, and packed with flavor while still being incredibly easy and fast to make. I encourage you to give it a try soon – it’s one of those dishes that feels like a special treat any night of the week!
Print
Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a bright and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer. The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and parsley enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making it a delightful and easy seafood recipe everyone will love.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 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 peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper evenly on both sides to enhance their natural flavors before cooking.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in 1/4 cup chicken broth and bring it to a simmer while scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful browned bits.
- Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the juice and zest of one lemon along with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Continue stirring until the butter has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the lemon garlic sauce to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat the shrimp through and meld the flavors.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor impact.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for mild flavor.
- Serve this dish over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Peeling and deveining shrimp beforehand saves time and makes eating easier.
- Ensure not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- For a gluten-free option, verify the chicken broth is gluten-free.
