Easy and Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Lemon garlic shrimp is a simple yet delicious recipe that is perfect for those looking to add some flavor and freshness to their meals. This dish is quick to prepare and can be served as a main course or side dish. With its tangy lemon zest combined with the rich, savory aroma of garlic, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon (about 2 teaspoons)
• Juice from 1 lemon (about ⅓ cup)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Cooking spray for the pan

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Spray the pan with cooking spray to ensure it is well-coated for even heat distribution.
3. Add the mixture of shrimp into the hot pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until pink and opaque, ensuring that they are cooked through but not overcooked (this will prevent them from becoming tough).
4. Once done, remove the pan from heat.

The key to achieving perfectly cooked lemon garlic shrimp is to ensure proper temperature control. Overcooking can lead to rubbery textures and a loss of natural moisture within the seafood. On the other hand, undercooked shrimp might harbor harmful bacteria that could cause foodborne illnesses if consumed. To avoid these issues, keep a close eye on your cooking time.

Tips for Success:

1. Always make sure your garlic is minced finely so it can release all its flavor into the dish. You may also want to use a microplane grater or zester to get an even finer texture of lemon zest.
2. For a richer taste, consider using extra virgin olive oil which has a lower smoke point and will not burn as easily as other oils like corn or vegetable oil.

Pairing Suggestions:

This dish pairs excellently with various side dishes such as rice pilaf or quinoa salad. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, try serving it alongside some crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the flavorful juices. You can also serve this dish over a bed of greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine lettuce for added freshness and nutrients.

Health Benefits:

Shrimp are low in calories yet rich in important nutrients such as protein, iodine, selenium, vitamin B12, niacin, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating a balanced diet that includes seafood like shrimp can contribute to overall health and wellness.

Lemon is not only a key component in making this dish tasty but also packed with benefits like supporting heart health due to its high levels of vitamin C which acts as an antioxidant protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Variations:

1. To add extra zest and texture, you can stir in some capers or chopped parsley right before serving the dish. Both will provide a bit more crunch and tanginess to contrast with the creamier shrimp and creamy sauce.
2. For a spicier variation, consider adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red peppers to give your dish an extra kick of heat without overpowering its natural flavors.

In conclusion, lemon garlic shrimp is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're cooking for one or entertaining guests, this recipe can be adjusted easily according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Try adding some fresh herbs like basil or tarragon during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra burst of flavor.