# Lemon Garlic Shrimp: A Fast and Tasty Weeknight Treat
If you’re on the lookout for a speedy, mouthwatering, and fulfilling dinner to prepare on a hectic weeknight, this lemon garlic shrimp recipe is just what you need. With only a few ingredients and just 10 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for anyone seeking a flavor-packed meal without the hassle. Complement it with your preferred sides like broccoli, asparagus, or orzo for a dinner that’s bound to impress.
## Why We Adore This Recipe
At A Couple Cooks, shrimp is a fundamental element of our cooking, and for very good reasons. This adaptable protein is not only quick to prepare but also remarkably simple to enhance with delicious flavors. The blend of garlic, butter, and lemon is a timeless combination that elevates the inherent sweetness of shrimp to a restaurant-quality experience. The straightforward nature of this dish allows you to keep its simplicity under wraps. Serve it with sautéed broccoli, garlic bread, or a light pasta such as orzo or couscous for a well-rounded dinner.
### A Family Favorite
This recipe is so easy that even budding chefs can participate. As Tanvee recounted, “My 7-year-old made this! She placed each shrimp on the pan and flipped it, stirring around the butter, garlic, and zest. This was a definite hit at our house! Everyone enjoyed it; I mean, what’s not to adore about garlicky shrimp?! Even my 4-year-old devoured quite a few and insisted she loves shrimp the most of all!”
## Ingredient Notes for Lemon Garlic Shrimp
When making this dish, selecting high-quality shrimp is crucial. Choose medium-sized, deveined shrimp—either shelled or with their tail on for a presentation boost. Fresh shrimp usually have a touch more flavor than frozen options, and wild-caught varieties are often preferred for their taste and sustainability.
– **Olive Oil and Butter:** This combination provides a rich, decadent base for the shrimp. For a dairy-free alternative, simply use only olive oil or swap in vegan butter.
– **Garlic:** Fresh garlic is key for its intense flavor. Steer clear of jarred garlic, and use garlic powder only if absolutely necessary.
– **Lemon:** Fresh lemon juice and zest contribute a lively, citrusy kick. Remember to zest the lemon prior to juicing for convenience.
### Pro Tip
Always zest your lemon before juicing to make it easier. A microplane grater is ideal for this job. Generally, one lemon yields about 1 tablespoon of zest and 3 tablespoons of juice.
## Complete Your Meal
To enhance your lemon garlic shrimp, think about quick and complementary side dishes that won’t interfere with the cooking process. Here are some suggestions:
– Sautéed Broccoli
– Garlic Bread
– Orzo or Couscous
## Storing Leftovers
While this dish is best when fresh, you can keep leftovers in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Repurpose leftover shrimp into a refreshing shrimp salad or a fulfilling shrimp roll for a delightful variation.
## Frequently Asked Questions
**Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?**
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to eliminate excess moisture. Fresh shrimp typically deliver the best flavor.
**How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?**
Shrimp is finished cooking when it turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as this can lead to a rubbery texture.
**Can I add more garlic or lemon?**
Certainly! Feel free to tweak the garlic and lemon amounts to match your taste preferences.
## Recipe Details
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound medium shrimp, deveined (tail on or peeled)
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– Fresh ground black pepper
– 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 1 ½ tablespoons salted butter
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice and zest of 1 lemon
– Finely chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Pat the shrimp dry and season them with salt and pepper.
2. Gather all remaining ingredients.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 1 ½ minutes on one side.
4. Flip the shrimp, add butter, garlic, and lemon zest. Cook for an additional 1 to 1 ½ minutes until opaque.
5. Remove shrimp, pour lemon juice into the pan, and cook for 1 minute. Drizzle sauce over shrimp and serve immediately.
**Category:** Main dish
**Method:** Stovetop
**Cuisine:** Seafood
**Diet:** Gluten-Free
This lemon garlic shrimp recipe showcases the beauty of simple ingredients and quick cooking methods. It’s a dish that brings delight to the table, whether you’re preparing it for family, friends, or just for yourself. Enjoy this flavorful experience!