Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-485796H37M1S
Total time: PT-485796H37M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

I love this Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe because it’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. The combination of garlic, lemon, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp in such a delicious way.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tbsp olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Juice and zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth

2 tbsp butter

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper.

Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and white wine (or chicken broth). Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the butter until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Combine Shrimp with Sauce:
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Cook for another minute to heat everything through.

Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. I like serving this with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables or fresh salad.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people.
Preparation takes around 5 minutes, and cooking takes about 10-12 minutes, so the entire dish comes together in roughly 15-20 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes like to add a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer texture. If I want more heat, I increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also swap the white wine for chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. For a herby twist, fresh basil or thyme can replace parsley.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

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FAQs

How do I know when shrimp is cooked perfectly?

I look for shrimp to turn pink and opaque with a slight curl. Overcooking makes them tough, so I cook them just until they lose translucency.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but I thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp?

I like serving it with spaghetti, linguine, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. The ingredients are naturally gluten-free, just make sure your broth or any additional sides are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

I prefer to make the sauce fresh in the skillet to keep the garlic and lemon flavors vibrant, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp separately and combine them quickly when ready to serve.

Conclusion

I find this Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe to be a fantastic way to enjoy a fresh, flavorful seafood meal without fuss. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and always hits the spot when I want something bright, garlicky, and just a little bit zesty. Whether for a casual dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers every time.