Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Discover the ultimate Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe! This quick and easy grilled shrimp dish is packed with fresh flavors from zesty lemon, savory garlic, and a touch of heat. Perfect for healthy dinners, BBQs, or as a topping for salads and pasta, this versatile shrimp recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. Learn tips, variations, and serving ideas to make it your own. Your go-to guide for making tender, juicy shrimp in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. uncooked shrimp (peeled, if desired)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers for grilling, soak them in water for about 1.5 hours to prevent burning. This step is optional, and skipping it typically works fine.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • If the shrimp have shells, carefully peel them off.
   • Rinse the shrimp in a colander under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
   • Sprinkle the shrimp evenly with salt and black pepper.
3. Make the Marinade:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
   • Transfer the marinade to a thick freezer bag or shallow dish and add the prepared shrimp. Seal the bag or cover the dish and gently toss to coat.
4. Marinate the Shrimp:
   • Allow the shrimp to marinate for 20-30 minutes. Avoid marinating for longer than 30 minutes, as the lemon juice’s acidity can break down the shrimp and make them mushy.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
   • Preheat your grill to high heat.
   • Carefully thread the shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.
   • Place the skewers on the grill rack with the lid open. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for an additional 2 minutes. The shrimp are done when their exteriors turn pink and the edges are white and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make them tough.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the shrimp from the grill and allow them to cool slightly. If you left the shells on, carefully peel them away before serving. Enjoy immediately!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy & Flavorful: Packed with protein, the shrimp are infused with zesty lemon, savory garlic, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes.
• Versatile: Works as a main dish, appetizer, or even a topping for salads or pasta.

Tips

• Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before marinating.
• Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cook very quickly; once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
• Skewer Spacing: Leave a little space between each shrimp on the skewer to ensure even cooking.
• Grill Alternatives: Don’t have a grill? Use a grill pan or broiler instead.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spices: Add smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade for a different flavor profile.
• Citrus Twist: Swap lemon juice for lime juice or a mix of both for a tangy twist.
• Herbs: Use cilantro, basil, or thyme in place of parsley for a fresh herb alternative.
• Butter Boost: Add a tablespoon of melted butter to the marinade for a richer flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? A: It’s best to use raw shrimp for this recipe, as pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when grilled.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: While it’s best to grill the shrimp fresh, you can prepare the marinade and shrimp up to 12 hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have skewers? A: You can grill the shrimp directly on a well-oiled grill or use a grill basket for easy handling.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Dish: Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• In a Salad: Toss the grilled shrimp over a fresh green salad with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• As Tacos: Use the shrimp as a filling for tacos with cabbage slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
• Over Pasta: Combine with linguine or spaghetti, and drizzle with extra olive oil or garlic butter.

Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to outdoor barbecues!