Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Looking for a delicious and quick shrimp dish that can be ready in under 30 minutes? Try this simple yet flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp. Perfect as a main course or an appetizer, it’s both easy to prepare and packed with taste. Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking time: About 15 minutes

Number of servings: 4

Instructions:

Begin by heating up a large skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is warm, add the olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add in the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant but not browned.

Meanwhile, mix together lemon zest and juice with salt and pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will be used to season the shrimp once they’re added to the pan.

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet, stirring gently so that all sides of each shrimp are coated evenly with the garlic-lemon sauce. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through—shrimp should be opaque throughout.

Once done, remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking, which can make your shrimp tough and rubbery. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color.

Tips & Variations:

1. If you prefer extra flavor without adding more oil, consider tossing in some chopped shallots along with the garlic at the beginning of cooking.
2. For those who love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes towards the end when sautéing the garlic and shrimp. It provides a nice kick to balance out the tanginess from lemon juice.
3. You can also serve this dish with some crusty bread on the side; it makes for an excellent dipping sauce!

Health Benefits:

Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Packed with vitamins B12, D, E, and A along with minerals like zinc, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, this meal isn't just tasty but also beneficial for maintaining your overall health.

Lemons are rich in vitamin C which aids in strengthening the immune system while providing antioxidants that help combat free radical damage. Garlic has been linked to various health benefits ranging from reducing blood pressure levels to improving cholesterol profile.

Pairing Suggestions:

1. Pasta: Toss with linguine or fettuccine for a quick pasta dish.
2. Rice: Serve alongside jasmine rice for added texture and flavor.
3. Bread: Offer crusty baguettes as an accompaniment for dipping into the savory sauce.

Conclusion:

This easy lemon garlic shrimp recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds without requiring too much effort. Whether you're having it for dinner, lunch, or even as a light supper during springtime picnics, this dish promises not only deliciousness but also simplicity in preparation. So go ahead and give it a try! Your family will love every bite!

Note: Always check freshness labels on your shrimp before purchasing to ensure they are safe for consumption.