There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and garlic—bright, bold, and bursting with flavor. When paired with tender, juicy shrimp, it creates a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light.
I first fell in love with this recipe during a beach vacation in South Carolina. After a long day in the sun, I craved something fast and satisfying without turning on the oven. A local seafood shack served a dish that hit all the right notes—and I was instantly hooked.
Back home, I started experimenting. After a few tweaks to the seasonings and technique, this quick and flavorful shrimp dish earned a regular spot in my weekly rotation. It comes together in under 20 minutes, uses simple pantry staples, and always impresses—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Shrimp
- Naturally gluten-free
- Fast & easy – ready in under 20 minutes
- Fresh & flavorful – lemon and garlic shine without overpowering the shrimp
- Healthy – high in protein, low in carbs, and light on fat
- Versatile – serve it over pasta, rice, salad, or as a stand-alone main
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Additions:
- ¼ cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- ½ tsp smoked or sweet paprika
- Grated Parmesan (if serving with pasta)
Substitution Notes:
- Use plant-based butter to make it dairy-free.
- Substitute lime for lemon if preferred.
- Swap white wine with chicken broth if avoiding alcohol.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant. Do not brown.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Increase heat to medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer and sear for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Work in batches if necessary.
4. Deglaze and Flavor
Add lemon juice, zest, and white wine (if using). Scrape up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
5. Finish with Butter and Herbs
Lower heat. Stir in butter and red pepper flakes until sauce is glossy. Return any shrimp from earlier batches to the pan and toss to coat.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.
Expert Tips
- Use high heat for caramelization without overcooking.
- Dry your shrimp before cooking for the best sear.
- Zest before juicing for maximum citrus flavor.
- Avoid overcooking—shrimp are done when curled into a “C” and fully pink.
- Deglaze the pan with wine or broth for a richer sauce.
Variations & Substitutions
- Cajun Twist: Add Cajun seasoning for heat.
- Creamy Option: Stir in ¼ cup of cream with the butter for a rich finish.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Double the sauce and toss with pasta.
- Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce and ginger instead of lemon.
- Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Serving Suggestions
- Over pasta or rice
- On top of a green salad with avocado and tomatoes
- With crusty bread for soaking up the sauce
- As an appetizer for gatherings
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
How do I know when shrimp are done?
They’ll be opaque, pink, and curled into a loose “C” shape.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use olive oil or plant-based butter.
Is it healthy?
Very—high in protein, low in carbs, and rich in good fats when made with olive oil.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
Lemon Garlic Shrimp is everything I love in a recipe—fast, flavorful, and adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need something quick and comforting, this dish delivers every time. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too.