Description
This Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlicky olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a light appetizer, it serves four and comes together in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Produce
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- Juice of 2 large lemons
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Pantry
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Heat 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create the perfect base to gently infuse the shrimp with garlic flavor.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the 5 minced garlic cloves to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, then flip and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add lemon juice and season: Pour the freshly squeezed juice of 2 large lemons over the shrimp, sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, and stir to coat the shrimp evenly. Continue cooking for an additional minute allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove from heat and immediately garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot as a main dish or appetizer.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best vibrant citrus flavor.
- If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they become tough and rubbery quickly.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad.
- For an even quicker meal, use pre-minced garlic and pre-peeled shrimp.
