Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Looking for a recipe that will add a burst of flavor to your dinner? Then look no further than this perfectly balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp! This dish is sure to become a favorite among family and friends, whether you're having guests over or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. The rich lemony tang complements the delicate shrimp beautifully while garlic adds an extra layer of complexity. Let's dive into how to make this delightful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
• 2 lemons, 1 for zest, 1 juiced
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people

Step-by-Step Guide:

The first step in preparing this dish is to ensure all ingredients are properly prepared. Start by finely mincing the garlic cloves and zesting one lemon. Set these aside as you juice both lemons for use later.

Next, season your shrimp generously with salt, pepper, half of the minced garlic, and a tablespoon each of olive oil and fresh lemon juice. This marinade will help to enhance the natural flavors of the shrimp and add zestiness which pairs perfectly with the lemony sauce that comes next.

After marinating the shrimp, it’s time for some sautéing action! In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, warm up another tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, gently add your shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure they cook evenly. Sear them until they turn opaque pink and are cooked through; this should take around 3-4 minutes per batch.

While the shrimp are cooking, combine remaining ingredients such as a bit more fresh lemon juice, some minced garlic, and olive oil into your saucepan. Stir well to blend all flavors together nicely. Once ready, pour this vibrant lemony mixture over the cooked shrimp and let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes longer so that everything melds seamlessly together.

Once done cooking, remove from heat immediately after adding in some freshly chopped parsley if desired for garnish – although not necessary as the dish already boasts excellent color and taste! Serve hot with a side of rice or pasta to soak up every last drop of delicious sauce.

Tips & Tricks:

1. For added depth, consider sautéing some shallots along with your garlic before adding the shrimp. This will infuse additional sweetness into the dish.

2. If you prefer less acidity from the lemon, reduce the amount used in marinade as well as sauce slightly depending on personal preference.

3. Feel free to mix up this recipe by substituting different types of seafood like scallops or lobster. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving):

Serving Size: 1/6 of the total recipe
Total Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Fat: ~17g
Sodium: ~800mg

Taste & Presentation:

This dish is not only delectable but also visually appealing with its bright yellow hues from the lemons contrasting against snowy white shrimp. The aroma alone will whet your appetite while it warms up your kitchen.

In conclusion, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe offers an easy yet impressive addition to any meal plan. Its simplicity and versatility make it perfect for various occasions ranging from casual dinners to special events. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, give this recipe a try; I promise your taste buds will thank you!