How to Make Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Lemon garlic shrimp is a popular dish that combines fresh flavors with ease of preparation. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions on how you can prepare this delightful meal in your kitchen. Follow along for the perfect balance of citrus and savory flavors.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails left on)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest of one lemon plus 1/4 cup juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Steps:

Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold running water, ensuring they are well cleaned. Pat dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and allow it to warm up slightly.
2. Add minced garlic cloves into the pan and sauté until fragrant, approximately one minute. Garlic can be easily identified by its aroma when lightly browned. Do not let it turn color as this will burn quickly and result in a bitter taste.
3. Meanwhile, combine lemon zest with 1/4 cup of fresh juice from the lemon in a bowl.
4. Add butter to the pan if using. Let it melt slowly and coat over garlic without burning it. The butter can also enhance the flavor by adding richness to your dish.
5. Once the garlic is golden brown, add the cleaned shrimp into the skillet. Ensure they are distributed evenly for even cooking.
6. Cook the shrimp until pink and opaque on one side. It will only take a few minutes as they cook quite quickly. For a more precise result, you can use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Flip them over and drizzle lemon mixture evenly across the shrimp in the skillet. Continue cooking until the other side is also fully cooked.
8. Serve hot with parsley or chives on top for garnish if desired. This optional step will not only elevate the appearance of your dish but also provide a fresh and vibrant touch to complement its flavors.

Tips:

To ensure this dish is as tasty as possible, here are some tips:

• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic used. Conversely, if you love the pungency, increase the quantity.
• Use high-quality olive oil for maximum flavor extraction and better overall taste.
• A squeeze of extra lemon juice just before serving can refresh your dish and enhance its citrus notes.
• The use of fresh parsley adds a light green color that enhances visual appeal, while also contributing to the nutritional value.

Conclusion:

Lemon garlic shrimp is an easy yet elegant recipe that can be enjoyed by families and friends. The combination of citrus and garlic brings out a delightful contrast in taste. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can achieve perfection every time. Try this dish at your next gathering for a memorable meal.

Note: Lemon garlic shrimp is a versatile dish that can also serve as an appetizer or main course depending on how much of it you prepare. Enjoy this culinary treat by following the simple steps and tips provided above!