This pan-seared lemon garlic shrimp is quick and full of flavor! With juicy shrimp cooked in garlic and bright lemon, it makes for a tasty dish that’s perfect for any time.
You can serve it over pasta or rice, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to whip it up during the busiest weeknights. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium shrimp will work too. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute with tofu, although the cooking time will vary.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, use a dairy-free butter or olive oil for a lighter option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal for that punchy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a quick substitute; use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove of fresh garlic.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are best for juice and zest. If you’re out, bottled lemon juice can be used, though it won’t have the same fresh taste. Try lime juice for a different twist!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a spicy kick! If you prefer milder flavors, skip them altogether or substitute with a pinch of black pepper.
How Do I Perfectly Sear the Shrimp?
Searing shrimp is key to locking in flavors and achieving that beautiful color. Here are tips to make it work:
- Make sure the shrimp are dry before seasoning. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot but not smoking. This helps get a nice sear.
- Cook the shrimp in a single layer. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Don’t overcook! Cook for about 2 minutes on each side; shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.
How to Make Pan Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
For the Cooking Mixture:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested, plus lemon wedges for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fancy dinner without the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and then pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season the shrimp with some salt and pepper for flavor.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough that the shrimp sizzle when they hit the pan!
3. Sear the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly browned. This step gives them a nice color and flavor.
4. Add Flavor:
Now, flip the shrimp over and add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. Stir everything gently to coat the shrimp in the buttery goodness.
5. Finish Cooking:
Sauté the shrimp for another 2 minutes, tossing occasionally, so they soak up all the flavors. Then, pour the lemon juice over the shrimp and continue to cook for another 30 seconds to a minute, just until they are fully cooked through.
6. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp. Serve them immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of fresh lemon flavor. Enjoy your tasty dish!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
How Do I Know When the Shrimp Are Done Cooking?
Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a C shape, while overcooked shrimp will look more like an O. Aim for about 4-5 minutes of cooking time total for large shrimp.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic and lemon sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, quickly sauté fresh shrimp and add the pre-made sauce for a quick meal!
What Should I Serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try serving it over zucchini noodles or alongside roasted vegetables for a light meal!
