Simple and Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Lemon garlic shrimp is a popular dish that many people love to enjoy, especially when paired with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple pasta salad. This recipe offers an easy, tasty way to make this classic dish at home without spending much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Preparation Steps:

Start by preparing your shrimp. If you have frozen shrimp, be sure they are thawed completely before starting. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat up one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add your minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This step is crucial as it ensures the garlic will be sweet and tender rather than bitter.

Next, carefully add the shrimp to the pan. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle another tablespoon of olive oil over them. Stir frequently so that each piece gets coated evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin turning pink. Then stir in the lemon zest and juice. Allow it to cook for an additional minute or two as this will infuse all the flavors into the shrimp.

Once done, remove from heat immediately before overcooking which can make the shrimp tough. Taste test your creation; adjust seasoning if necessary - sometimes just a little more salt or extra lemon zest can bring out the perfect flavor.

Cooking Time & Serving Size

This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes from start to finish, making it one of those dishes that’s quick yet flavorful. It serves two people as an appetizer or four individuals as a side dish.

Tips for Success:

1. Ensure your shrimp are fresh and well-rinsed before cooking.
2. The key to getting the best flavor out of garlic is not overcooking it. It should be slightly browned but still retain its green color.
3. If you're not a fan of fishy-tasting seafood, make sure to buy quality shrimp - cheap or old shrimp can have stronger flavors that may overpower other ingredients in your dish.

After the cooking process, garnish with some fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot with steamed broccoli or quinoa for a well-rounded meal. Lemon garlic shrimp is also delicious served alongside lemony couscous or atop a bed of arugula salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese.

Cooking at home doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you follow simple recipes like this one. With just four main ingredients (shrimp, oil, garlic, and lemon), you can create something truly special that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, there are endless ways to adapt the basic concept - try adding some capers for extra tanginess or replacing half of the shrimp with scallops if preferred.

Whether you're looking for a quick dinner option or want to impress guests at your next gathering, lemon garlic shrimp is sure to be a hit. Its combination of savory garlic and bright lemon makes it both versatile enough to suit various tastes and occasions while remaining simple enough that even beginners can master the technique.

Enjoy your meal!