est Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a quick and flavorful seafood dish that’s bursting with zesty citrus and savory garlic. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a buttery lemon garlic sauce, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. It’s versatile, light, and packed with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish comes together in under 20 minutes with just a few ingredients, yet delivers restaurant-quality results. It’s naturally low in carbs, gluten-free, and high in protein, making it a healthy and satisfying option. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Whether you’re cooking for guests or a quick family dinner, this shrimp recipe is always a hit.

ingredients

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

• Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Fresh garlic, minced
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

directions

this recipe

1. Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1 more minute.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
7. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Add vegetables: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for a heartier meal.
• Creamy version: Add a splash of cream or Parmesan cheese for a creamy garlic lemon sauce.
• Herbed twist: Include fresh basil or thyme for extra flavor depth.
• Grilled option: Marinate the shrimp in the same ingredients and grill them for a smoky taste.
• Pasta pairing: Toss cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth. Avoid microwaving, as shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What size shrimp works best?

Medium to large shrimp (like 21/25 or 16/20 count) work well for even cooking and great texture.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?

Do not overcook them. Shrimp cook quickly—1 to 2 minutes per side is usually enough.

What should I serve with lemon garlic shrimp?

It pairs well with rice, pasta, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use only olive oil instead of butter, or substitute with a dairy-free butter alternative.

Is this recipe spicy?

Only slightly, if red pepper flakes are used. Adjust or omit to suit your taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead and cook just before serving.

Can I cook this in the oven?

You can roast shrimp with garlic, lemon, and oil at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, but stovetop gives better control.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, it’s high in protein, low in carbs, and uses wholesome ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and lemon.

Conclusion

Best Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a quick and vibrant dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or tossed with pasta, the bold flavors of lemon and garlic make this recipe stand out. With just a handful of ingredients and under 20 minutes of your time, you can bring a fresh, flavorful seafood dish to the table any night of the week.

Print