If you’re craving a burst of bright, zesty flavors paired with succulent seafood, this Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe is going to be your new weeknight superstar. Juicy shrimp get quickly sautéed with fragrant garlic, then kissed by fresh lemon juice for a dish that feels refreshing yet indulgent. It’s incredibly simple to make, fast to cook, and delivers a mouthwatering punch that’s perfect for busy evenings or casual get-togethers. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients. Each element plays an essential role, from the bright zing of lemon juice that lifts the shrimp’s natural sweetness, to the comforting aroma of garlic that infuses every bite. Simple does not mean boring here—these ingredients combine to create a beautifully balanced dish.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the garlic infuse the shrimp evenly.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic provides a pungent, savory backbone that’s absolutely essential.
- Juice of 2 large lemons: Fresh lemon juice brings brightness and a subtle tartness that perfects the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning enhances all the natural flavors and rounds out the profile.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Garlic
Start by warming the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic. Let it sauté gently for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil with garlic’s rich essence, setting the flavorful foundation.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Place the peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Resist the urge to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and start to curl. Flip them over and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until opaque. The shrimp should be tender and juicy, not rubbery.
Step 3: Add the Lemon Juice and Seasonings
Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle with salt and pepper according to your taste. Gently stir everything to coat the shrimp evenly with the tangy lemon and savory seasonings. Let this cook for just one more minute to marry the flavors perfectly without losing that fresh lemon sparkle.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve Immediately
Once the shrimp is beautifully cooked and coated, remove the skillet from the heat. Scatter freshly chopped parsley on top — this little green herb adds a nice contrast not just in color but in its subtle fresh taste. Serve the shrimp hot for the most enjoyable experience.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, but don’t hesitate to experiment with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat or a few lemon zest curls for extra citrus aroma. These simple additions enhance the visual appeal and elevate the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Side Dishes
This shrimp dish pairs spectacularly with fluffy white rice, buttery pasta, or even a crisp green salad. For a low-carb option, serve it atop zucchini noodles or alongside roasted vegetables. The bright, garlicky lemon sauce complements a wide variety of sides, making it incredibly versatile.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist and impressive presentation, serve the shrimp on warm slices of crusty bread or over creamy polenta. You could even turn this into a shareable appetizer by skewering the cooked shrimp and serving with a lemony aioli dip. The possibilities are as endless as your creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover shrimp in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because shrimp cook quickly, it’s best to enjoy leftovers soon to maintain their tender texture and fresh flavors.
Freezing
If you want to keep the shrimp longer, freeze portions in a sealed container or freezer bag. They will maintain good quality for up to 1 month. When freezing, it’s best to skip garnishes and add fresh parsley after thawing for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat shrimp gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave at reduced power to prevent overcooking. Adding a splash of water or lemon juice can help keep the shrimp moist during reheating. Avoid high heat to keep the shrimp tender instead of rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release too much water in the pan.
What type of lemon juice works best?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for bright, natural flavor. Bottled lemon juice tends to be less vibrant and can alter the taste slightly.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper with the garlic gives a nice kick without overpowering the brightness of the lemon.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe for those avoiding gluten.
How long does this shrimp recipe take to prepare?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25 minutes—including prep and cooking—perfect for when you want a quick but delicious meal.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a true kitchen winner: incredibly fast, impressive, and bursting with fresh flavors that anyone can master. Whether it’s your busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast with friends, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table with very little fuss. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Print
Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic-infused olive oil and brightened with fresh lemon juice, finished with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh touch. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a perfect light and zesty meal that pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a crisp salad.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings & Oils
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Produce
- Juice of 2 large lemons
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t brown to avoid bitterness.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and become opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Add Lemon Juice and Season: Pour the freshly squeezed juice of two lemons over the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste, stirring gently to coat the shrimp evenly with the lemony garlic sauce. Let it cook for an additional minute to combine the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and tangy flavor.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they turn rubbery if cooked too long.
- Serve with crusty bread, over pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
