Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp: A Tasty Sea Breeze in Every Bite
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Are you craving a meal that’s as simple to prepare as it is packed with flavor? Look no further than this Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp recipe! With bright citrus notes and a touch of garlic, these tender shrimp are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive party dish. Bursting with flavor and loaded with fresh herbs, this recipe is not only delicious but also remarkably easy to whip up in less than 30 minutes. Get ready to make a dish that will wow your family and friends!
## Why You'll Love This Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp
This delightful shrimp recipe offers plenty of advantages that make it an instant favorite in any home. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- **Quick and Easy:** Cooked in under 30 minutes, this dish is a fantastic option for busy nights. Throw it together in a flash!
- **Perfect for Beginners:** With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress their guests. You’ll build confidence in the kitchen!
- **Family-Friendly:** Packed with flavor that both kids and adults will love, this dish can turn dinner into a gourmet experience.
- **Healthy Option:** High in protein and low in calories, shrimp is a nutritious choice that’s perfect for healthy eating.
- **Versatile:** Pair it with your favorite sides or toss it in a salad; this shrimp can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways!
## Ingredients You'll Need
Before you dive into cooking, gather up these essential ingredients for your Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
### Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:
- **Shrimp:** While large shrimp are recommended for their meaty texture, you could use medium or even smaller shrimp if that’s what you have on hand.
- **Olive Oil:** Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor, but you can easily substitute it with avocado oil or a light vegetable oil.
- **Garlic:** Fresh garlic gives the best punch, but if you’re in a pinch, using garlic powder or jarred minced garlic will work too; just adjust the amount according to your taste.
## How to Make Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp Step-By-Step
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp.
1. **Prep the Shrimp:** Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the shrimp sear nicely instead of steaming.
**Pro Tip:** Removing excess moisture is key for achieving that perfect sear!
2. **Sauté Garlic:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
**Pro Tip:** Watch the garlic closely; it can burn quickly, which would lead to a bitter taste.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, oregano, lemon juice, and zest. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
**Pro Tip:** The shrimp are done when they turn opaque; remove them from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
4. **Garnish and Serve:** Once cooked, sprinkle fresh parsley over the shrimp and serve immediately for the best flavor.
**Pro Tip:** Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
## Serving Suggestions
Make your Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp shine by serving it with these ideas:
- **Perfect Pairings:**
- Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices.
- Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful finish.
- **Occasions:**
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a star dish at holiday gatherings.
- Make it part of a seafood buffet alongside other dishes like scallops or crab.
- **Presentation Tips:**
- Serve in a colorful bowl and sprinkle with additional herbs for a fresh look.
- Consider a bed of creamy risotto for a stunning presentation that combines flavors beautifully.
## Storage and Reheating Tips
To maintain the freshness and quality of your shrimp, follow these guidelines:
### Refrigerator:
- Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
### Freezer:
- If you need to freeze, place shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for 1-2 months. To thaw, leave in the refrigerator overnight.
### Reheating:
- The best method to reheat is to place the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and stir until heated through.
## Tips for Success
- **Do Season Generously:** Season the shrimp well; they soak up the flavors beautifully.
- **Don't Overcrowd the Pan:** Cook in batches if necessary to get that perfect sear without steaming.
- **Do Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh ingredients heighten the flavor profile of this dish.
- **Don't Skip Garnishing:** A sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon zest not only adds color but enhances the overall flavor.
- **Do Watch Cooking Time:** Overcooking shrimp can lead to rubbery textures—watch them closely!
## Recipe Variations
- **Make it Spicy:** Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet while sautéing garlic for a kick.
- **Make it Creamy:** Stir in a splash of heavy cream after cooking the shrimp for a richer sauce.
- **Make it Garlic-Heavy:** If you love garlic, double the amount for an even more robust flavor.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?**
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely under cold water before cooking for the best results.
**Q: What can I serve as a side dish?**
A: Delicious options include quinoa, rice pilaf, or a fresh vegetable stir-fry that complements the shrimp beautifully.
**Q: How do I know when shrimp are done cooking?**
A: Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and curl into a C-shape. Avoid overcooking them to ensure they stay tender.
**Q: Can I prep this dish in advance?**
A: It's best to cook the shrimp fresh, but you can marinate them up to 30 minutes ahead of time for enhanced flavor.
**Q: What if I don't like shrimp? What else can I use?**
A: This recipe can easily be adapted for chicken, scallops, or even tofu, making it versatile for all dietary preferences.
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Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp
A quick and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed with lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined You can substitute with medium or smaller shrimp if desired.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for better flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives the best flavor; adjust if using garlic powder.
- 1 si lemon, juice and zest Adds brightness and flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt and pepper Season generously to enhance flavor.
- fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Use for a fresh finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, oregano, lemon juice, and zest. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Once cooked, sprinkle fresh parsley over the shrimp and serve immediately.
Notes
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For freezing, place shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag for 1-2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 26gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 450mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!