Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Lemon Garlic Shrimp, a vibrant and flavorful dish that has captured the hearts of many food enthusiasts. The combination of citrusy lemon with pungent garlic creates a mouthwatering balance, making this recipe perfect for gatherings or casual dinners alike.

Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 to 20 minutes depending on the size of your shrimp. This recipe serves four people generously. You will need just a few ingredients to make this dish; fresh lemon, garlic, shrimp (preferably jumbo), olive oil, salt, pepper, butter, and parsley for garnish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced finely
• Juice from 2 lemons
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Start by preparing the shrimp. Peel off the shells, leaving the tails on if you like. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Set aside.

1. Mix the finely minced garlic cloves in a small bowl along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and butter. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This mixture will be used to season your shrimp later on.
2. Heat up the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot enough but not smoking, add the seasoned shrimp into the pan. Sear each side of the shrimp until it turns pink and slightly opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Once your shrimp are cooked through, spoon half of the garlic lemon butter mixture over them to coat evenly. Allow this to cook for another minute or two so that the flavors meld together beautifully.
4. Serve immediately garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, consider adding some white wine to the pan while cooking the shrimp. This not only adds moisture but also heightens the overall taste profile of your dish.
• If you're looking for a bit more kick, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the butter mixture before pouring it over the cooked shrimp.
• Another great twist could be to substitute part of the butter with cream cheese. The richness adds another layer of flavor complexity and smoothness to this already delightful dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

The nutritional values can vary based on individual ingredients used, but here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving:

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
• Total Fat: About 18g
• Saturated Fat: Around 4.5g
• Carbohydrates: Just under 10g
• Fiber: Less than 1g
• Protein: About 25g
• Sodium: Depending on the salt you use, it can range between very low to moderate sodium content.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a quick yet satisfying meal that showcases the power of simple ingredients. Its refreshing lemon and garlic flavors make every bite delightful. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this dish brings joy to both casual meals and special occasions alike.

If you're seeking more seafood recipes beyond shrimp, you might also enjoy trying our Lemon Garlic Shrimp alongside some steamed vegetables on the side or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal. Bon Appétit!