Easy and Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry

Lemon garlic shrimp stir-fry is a delightful fusion of tangy lemon zest and savory garlic, creating the perfect base for succulent shrimp. This versatile dish pairs well with rice or noodles. It’s a quick meal that can be prepared in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weekdays. The recipe serves four people, offering a healthy and satisfying dinner option.

For this stir-fry, you’ll need:

• 1 pound large shrimp
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots for extra flavor and color (optional)
• Rice or noodles as a side dish

To start the stir-fry, you'll need about 15 minutes of active cooking time. Begin by washing and patting dry the shrimp. Then, slice the vegetables into bite-sized pieces if using them.

1. Prepare the base ingredients: Heat up a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add two tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Once heated, add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant but not browned (about 1 minute). This step is crucial as it infuses the dish with the signature garlic aroma.
2. Seasoning: Stir in the zest of one lemon. The zest adds an exquisite citrus flavor that complements the garlic well. Follow by adding fresh lemon juice and soy sauce, which balance out the tangy zest with a salty kick to enhance the overall taste. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
3. Stir-frying: Now comes the main event: stirring in the shrimp. Add one pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp into the pan, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Stir continuously for about 3 minutes or until the shrimp turn opaque and pink. Be mindful not to overcook them as it may result in a tough texture.
4. Vegetables (optional): If you prefer adding vegetables, now is the time to do so. You can choose any combination of your favorite vegetables such as broccoli florets, bell peppers, and sliced carrots. Stir-fry these for another 2-3 minutes until they are just tender-crisp.
5. Garnish: To finish off the dish, squeeze in the remaining lemon juice over everything to give it that final zesty touch. Optionally, you can garnish with additional freshly chopped parsley or chives for a vibrant appearance and extra freshness.

The entire process should take around 20 minutes from start to finish. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles on the side for a complete meal.

Healthy Benefits of Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. The lemon provides an excellent source of vitamin C, known for boosting your immune system and promoting skin health. Shrimp contains high levels of protein which helps in muscle repair and growth while aiding in the production of important enzymes and hormones.

Variations to Try

To make this dish a little more interesting or suit different taste preferences:

• Vegetarian Option: Simply replace shrimp with a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and corn. Season with the same amount of lemon zest and garlic for the same flavor profile.
• Cooking Style: Experiment by grilling or baking the shrimp before stir-frying it. This technique can add a smoky flavor enhancing both texture and taste.
• Sweetener: A touch of honey or maple syrup might be added for those who prefer sweeter dishes.

Whether you're looking for a quick weekday meal or trying out something new, this lemon garlic shrimp stir-fry offers an easy solution. Its vibrant flavors and simplicity make it a favorite among many.