Quick and Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that can be prepared in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this lemon garlic shrimp recipe! This dish is not only tasty but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for those days when you want something special yet simple. The aroma of fresh herbs and the zesty tang of lemons will make your dining room smell heavenly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails left on or off, as preferred)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 lemons, one for juicing and one sliced into rounds
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped finely
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

To start the recipe, let's first prepare our shrimp by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels before proceeding. While the shrimp are drying, zest one of your lemons into a small bowl and set aside for later use.

Next, in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once it shimmers, gently add the minced garlic cloves to the pan. Sauté until they become fragrant but not browned. Garlic should have turned slightly golden; this will ensure your dish gets the perfect flavor.

Meanwhile, squeeze half a lemon into a small bowl and measure out one tablespoon of its juice using a measuring spoon. Set aside. Then, slice the remaining half lemon lengthwise and keep it on hand for garnish if needed.

Add the shrimp to the pan with the garlic, stirring gently so that each piece gets coated in oil and flavor. Cook until they turn pink; approximately 4-5 minutes per side or less depending upon their size. It is crucial not to overcook as you want firm but fully cooked shrimp. After cooking, season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil along with the reserved lemon juice. Stir well to combine all flavors evenly. Then return the shrimp back into the pan if necessary. Add the fresh parsley and oregano now. Let this mixture cook for about a minute more, allowing the herbs to heat through without losing their bright green color.

Transfer everything onto serving plates or bowls and top with lemon slices and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately while hot! This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, pasta, or even some crusty bread for dipping.

Tips & Variations:

1. Vegetable Addition: Feel free to add a few cups of your favorite vegetables like asparagus, broccoli florets, bell peppers, etc., into the skillet while cooking the shrimp. This way, you create a more balanced meal.
2. Cooking Method Alteration: If you prefer not using a pan, this recipe also works well with grilling the shrimp and vegetables together.

This lemon garlic shrimp dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful yet straightforward. Its bright lemony kick combined with fresh herbs makes every bite an explosion of taste! Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit different dietary preferences too - simply leave out the shrimp and increase vegetable portions if desired.

Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or just craving something homemade after work, this recipe will impress both your palate and guests. The delightful balance between sweet and tangy flavors from the lemon and garlic creates an unforgettable dining experience every time!

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