These pan-seared lemon garlic shrimp are quick and full of flavor. With juicy shrimp cooked to perfection in butter, garlic, and a hint of lemon, they make a tasty treat!
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy dinner party, these shrimp cook in just minutes. I love serving them over pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the yummy juices!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star of this dish. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp work perfectly too; just thaw them overnight in the fridge. If you prefer, use scallops or chicken for a different twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. However, feel free to use regular olive oil or another high-quality oil like avocado oil if you need a neutral taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor! If you’re in a pinch, pre-minced garlic can substitute, but the flavor won’t be as fresh. I also love adding a touch more garlic for extra kick.
Lemon: Fresh lemons bring brightness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh, bottled lemon juice can work, but use it sparingly as it can be more concentrated.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for a little heat. If you want a milder dish, leave them out, or substitute with a pinch of paprika for color without the spice.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right is key to this dish, and it’s easier than you think! The main challenge is not to overcook them, which can make them rubbery.
- Pat the shrimp dry before cooking; this helps them sear better.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get that nice golden brown.
- Watch the color change – they start pink and turn opaque, which takes about 2-4 minutes total depending on size.
How to Make Pan Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp will take about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and simple recipe, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the shrimp sear nicely in the pan. Season the shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Set them aside for now.
2. Heat the Oil:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sear the shrimp when you add them to the pan.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink and are slightly brown. This gives them a nice, flavorful crust!
4. Add Garlic and Spices:
Carefully flip the shrimp over. Now, add the minced garlic and the optional red pepper flakes to the pan. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring gently to make sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
5. Add Lemon Flavor:
Time to make this dish really zing! Add the lemon zest and about half of the lemon juice to the skillet. Toss everything together so the shrimp are coated in that vibrant lemon garlic sauce.
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat, and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a fresh touch. Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish, garnish with lemon slices, and drizzle over any remaining sauce from the pan.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your pan-seared lemon garlic shrimp immediately as a delightful main dish or appetizer. They pair wonderfully with crusty bread, or you can serve them over pasta or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious dish!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. Thawing in the fridge overnight is best, but you can also place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for quick thawing.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the shrimp and the lemon garlic sauce up to a few hours ahead. Just keep everything covered in the fridge, then cook just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of lemon juice or water to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with Pan Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs excellently with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!