Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? You'll love this Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp recipe! It’s packed with bright flavors and is super easy to make. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a dish that's full of zest and goes great with any side. Ready to impress your family or guests? Let’s dive into this simple and delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of zesty lemon and garlic creates a vibrant flavor profile that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, taking just 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Healthier Option: Using extra virgin olive oil and fresh ingredients, this dish is both delicious and nutritious, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile Pairing: These roasted shrimp can be served on their own, over pasta, or atop a salad, allowing for creativity in presentation and serving.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Zest and juice of 2 vibrant lemons
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
To make Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp, gather these fresh ingredients. Start with one pound of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for ease. Next, chop four cloves of garlic finely. The garlic adds a bold flavor that pairs well with shrimp.
You will need 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil. This oil not only enhances flavor but also helps the shrimp roast nicely. The zest and juice of two lemons are key for that bright, zesty kick.
If you like a little heat, add one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. This step is optional, but it can bring the dish to life. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Finally, you will need fresh parsley for garnish. It adds color and freshness to your dish. With these ingredients, you are ready to create a flavorful meal that is both easy and impressive.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot oven helps cook the shrimp fast.
Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, mix together:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Zest and juice of 2 vibrant lemons
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Stir well until all the ingredients blend together. The smell will be amazing!
Marinate the Shrimp
Add 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined, to the bowl. Toss the shrimp in the marinade. Make sure each shrimp gets covered. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes. This waiting time helps the shrimp soak up all the flavors.
Preheat Baking Sheet
Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy. Spread the shrimp evenly on the sheet. They should not touch each other.
Roast the Shrimp
Place the baking sheet in the hot oven. Roast the shrimp for 8-10 minutes. Stir the shrimp halfway through cooking. You want them pink and opaque when done.
Add Garnish
Once cooked, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. This adds color and a nice taste to your dish. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
Marinating the shrimp is key. Letting them sit in the marinade for 15-20 minutes boosts the flavor. This time allows the shrimp to soak up the bright lemon and garlic notes. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a must. It adds a zesty kick that dried lemon cannot match. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
Cooking Tips
To know when shrimp are done, look for a pink color and a slight curl. Perfectly cooked shrimp are firm yet tender. I recommend using the middle rack of your oven for even cooking. This helps prevent any burning and ensures they roast evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your lemon garlic roasted shrimp with a side of mixed greens or pasta. Lightly dressed pasta with olive oil pairs well. For a pop of color, garnish with lemon wedges and extra parsley. It adds freshness and makes your dish visually appealing. Remember, presentation matters!
Pro Tips
- Marinate Longer for Depth: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for more than 20 minutes can deepen the flavors, giving you a more intense and zesty taste.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh shrimp over frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before marinating.
- Add Citrus Variations: Experiment with different citrus fruits such as lime or orange for a unique twist on the classic lemon flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while roasting; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Variations
Add Spice
You can easily add spice to your Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp. Try using different types of chili flakes. A pinch of cayenne pepper will bring heat. You can also use your favorite hot sauce. Just add a few drops to the marinade. This will give a nice kick to the shrimp. Adjust the spice level according to your taste.
Citrus Alternatives
Lemon gives this dish a bright flavor, but you can switch it up! Use lime or orange instead. Lime adds a zesty twist, while orange adds sweetness. Simply replace the lemon juice and zest with the new citrus. This small change offers a whole new taste. Experiment and find your favorite citrus!
Additional Protein Options
Want to mix it up? Try adding other seafood or veggies. Scallops or fish fillets pair well with shrimp. For veggies, toss in bell peppers or asparagus. They cook quickly and add color. Just make sure to adjust cooking time based on what you add. This keeps everything juicy and tasty.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the shrimp to room temperature first. Store the container in the fridge. You can enjoy the shrimp within three days for the best taste.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. This method warms the shrimp without drying them out. Heat for about three to five minutes, stirring gently until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but be careful! Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, first place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. Press out as much air as you can before sealing. Label the bag with the date. For best quality, use the shrimp within three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Frozen shrimp is convenient and saves time. Just thaw them before cooking. To thaw, place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel. This step helps the marinade stick better. Fresh shrimp have a slight edge in flavor, but frozen shrimp works well.
What to serve with Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp?
You can serve this shrimp with many tasty sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Steamed rice or quinoa for a light base.
- A fresh salad with mixed greens for crunch.
- Garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices.
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for color.
- Light pasta tossed in olive oil for a filling option.
These sides bring balance to the flavors of the shrimp.
How can I make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
To make this recipe low-carb, focus on your sides. Here are some tips:
- Skip the pasta and serve the shrimp with zucchini noodles.
- Pair with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Add more non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Use a sugar-free marinade if you prefer a sweeter taste.
These changes keep the dish tasty while fitting low-carb needs.
This recipe for Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp combines fresh flavors with easy steps. We covered ingredient details, cooking tips, and variations to fit your taste. Remember, marinating adds great depth to the shrimp. For the best results, keep an eye on cooking times to get that perfect texture. You can also explore different flavors or sides to make it your own. Enjoy this dish often, and don't forget to share it with friends.
