This tasty Pan Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp is quick and easy to make! Juicy shrimp cook to perfection in a zesty lemon and garlic sauce that brightens every bite.
Perfect as a light meal or served over rice or pasta, it’s a crowd-pleaser! I love how fast it comes together—sometimes I pretend I’m a fancy chef while whipping this up! 🍤🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: I recommend using large shrimp for a nice texture. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen works just fine—just thaw it out in the fridge beforehand. For a twist, you could also use scallops!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with avocado oil or even butter for a richer taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a great depth of flavor. If fresh isn’t available, use garlic powder, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon. Some folks even like adding a little garlic salt!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest create a bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be a quick substitute, though fresh is always better for taste. Lime juice can work too!
Red Pepper Flakes: This adds a nice kick! If you’re not a fan of spice, feel free to leave it out. You can also substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor without heat.
How Do I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Seared?
A key to perfectly seared shrimp lies in the cooking method. You want that beautiful golden color without overcooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by thoroughly drying your shrimp with paper towels—this helps achieve that nice sear.
- Preheat your skillet until the oil is shimmering. It’s crucial to ensure it’s hot enough before adding the shrimp.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and resist the urge to move them around. This allows them to develop a crispy exterior.
- Flip the shrimp only once, and add garlic just before they finish cooking to avoid burning.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon and butter to coat the shrimp, adding flavor while keeping them tender.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful shrimp every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🦐🍋
How to Make Pan Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and tasty dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 5-6 minutes of cooking time. In under 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, bright meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by patting the shrimp dry using paper towels. This helps to ensure they sear nicely. Then, season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the flavor of the shrimp!
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This indicates it’s hot enough to sear the shrimp. If the oil isn’t hot enough, your shrimp will steam instead of sear!
3. Sear the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes without moving them. This will help create a beautiful golden crust. After 2 minutes, flip the shrimp over to cook the other side.
4. Add Flavor:
Once flipped, quickly add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) to the pan. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring the garlic occasionally. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
5. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to make it saucy! Add the unsalted butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the pan. Stir everything together so the shrimp get coated in that delicious sauce. Allow it to cook for about 30 seconds.
6. Finish and Garnish:
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp, gently tossing to combine. This adds a nice fresh touch!
7. Serve:
Serve your lemon garlic shrimp immediately, garnished with lemon wedges. They’re perfect over rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy your delightful culinary creation!
Happy cooking and enjoy your bright, flavorful Pan Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp! 🍤🍋
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your frozen shrimp thoroughly before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing them under cold running water. Pat them dry before adding them to the pan for best results!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder will do the trick. Just keep in mind that the flavor won’t be quite as robust, so adjust to your taste.
How to Store Leftover Shrimp?
Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent them from becoming rubbery. You might want to add a splash of lemon juice or a little butter to refresh the flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
For a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the seasoning. Adjust to your heat preference, and enjoy a zesty twist on the dish!
