Lemon Garlic Shrimp – Grilled, Baked, or Pan-Fried!

Shrimp lovers, rejoice! This Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is your go-to dish for a quick, flavorful, and versatile seafood meal. 

Whether you prefer it grilled, baked, or pan-fried, this recipe ensures your shrimp is juicy, zesty, and utterly irresistible. Let’s dive into how you can create this culinary delight.

Why Lemon Garlic Shrimp?

Lemon and garlic form a match made in culinary heaven. The citrusy brightness of lemon balances perfectly with the rich, savory taste of garlic, enhancing the natural sweetness of shrimp. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but is also incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Ingredients

To prepare this dish, you’ll need:

Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on if desired for presentation).

Marinade:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about one lemon)

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for a subtle sweetness)

• ½ teaspoon paprika (for a smoky touch)

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Method: Three Cooking Options

1. Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Grilling shrimp adds a smoky, charred flavor that pairs wonderfully with the zesty marinade.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

2. Marinate Shrimp: In a large bowl, mix the marinade ingredients. Add the shrimp and toss until evenly coated. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes.

3. Skewer the Shrimp: Thread shrimp onto skewers for easy handling (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning).

4. Grill Shrimp: Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

2. Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Baking shrimp is a hands-off method that yields juicy and tender results.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Marinate Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, combine the marinade ingredients. Toss shrimp in the mixture until well-coated.

3. Arrange in Dish: Spread shrimp in a single layer on a baking dish or sheet pan.

4. Bake: Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and curled.

5. Broil (Optional): For a slight char, broil shrimp for an additional 1-2 minutes.

6. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

3. Pan-Fried Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Pan-frying shrimp gives them a golden sear and a deliciously crisp exterior.

Instructions:

1. Heat Pan: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

2. Cook Shrimp: Add marinated shrimp in a single layer (do not overcrowd the pan). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are golden and opaque.

3. Deglaze Pan: Pour any remaining marinade into the pan and let it sizzle for 30 seconds to create a flavorful sauce.

4. Serve: Transfer shrimp to a plate, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Garlic Shrimp is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides, including:

• Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or a lemon-herb risotto.

• Pasta: Toss with linguine or spaghetti and a drizzle of olive oil.

• Salad: Add to a bed of fresh greens for a light and healthy meal.

• Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or a medley of grilled vegetables.

• Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp

• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking can make it rubbery. Remove it from heat as soon as it turns pink and opaque.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: If possible, opt for fresh shrimp over frozen for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them thoroughly before marinating.

• Control the Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

• Marinate Briefly: Shrimp doesn’t need a long marinating time—15 to 30 minutes is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well for this recipe. Thaw them in the refrigerator or under cold running water before marinating.

2. What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?

To peel shrimp, start by removing the legs and shell, leaving the tail intact if desired. Use a paring knife or shrimp deveiner to remove the vein along the back.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best to cook shrimp fresh, you can marinate them up to 4 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cook just before serving.

4. What’s the difference between grilling, baking, and pan-frying shrimp?

Grilling adds a smoky flavor, baking yields tender shrimp with minimal effort, and pan-frying creates a golden, slightly crisp exterior. Choose the method based on your preference and available equipment.

5. What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or add to salads, tacos, or pasta dishes.

6. Can I use this recipe for other seafood?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with scallops, fish fillets, or even lobster tails.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a show-stopping dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you grill, bake, or pan-fry, this versatile recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With its vibrant flavors and endless pairing options, it’s perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to elegant dinner parties.

Gather your ingredients, choose your cooking method, and get ready to enjoy the mouthwatering taste of Lemon Garlic Shrimp!