Quick Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Quick Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a fast and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you need something quick but impressive. This recipe combines plump, juicy shrimp with a zesty blend of garlic, lemon juice, and chili flakes for a spicy kick. The dish is cooked in just one pan, making it easy to prepare and clean up.

Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread for dipping, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. The combination of the tangy citrus, savory garlic, and the fiery heat from the chili creates a flavor-packed experience in every bite. It’s versatile, too—you can adjust the spice level, pair it with your favorite sides, or even enjoy it as an appetizer.

This recipe is also a great option for those following a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto lifestyle, as shrimp are naturally low in calories and carbs while being rich in protein. With its vibrant flavors, quick preparation, and beautiful presentation, Quick Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold and zesty meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Bold and Zesty Flavors: The combination of garlic, lemon, and chili creates a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and spicy.
• Healthy and Nutrient-Rich: Shrimp are low in calories, high in protein, and packed with essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12.
• Versatile: Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or salad, or enjoy it as an appetizer.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice by adding more or less chili flakes to suit your taste.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooked in just one skillet, this recipe minimizes dishes and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Elegant and Impressive: Despite its simplicity, the dish looks and tastes like something from a fine dining restaurant.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Prepare the marinade in advance to make the cooking process even faster.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: Approximately 6-8 large shrimp

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Sugar: 0 g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, depending on preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor and color)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Lemon Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chicken or seafood stock (optional, for extra sauce)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

• Cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa
• Crusty bread (for dipping into the sauce)
• Steamed vegetables or a side salad

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Peel and devein the shrimp if they haven’t been prepped already. You can leave the tails on for a more elegant presentation or remove them for easier eating.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures they sear properly in the pan.
3. Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the minced garlic.
2. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until the bottom side is pink and slightly golden.
2. Flip the shrimp and sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken or seafood stock (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and coat the shrimp in the sauce.
2. Add the chopped parsley and toss everything together. Let the shrimp simmer in the sauce for about 30 seconds to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Spoon the sauce over the top.
2. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of pasta, rice, bread, or vegetables.

Ingredient Background

• Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and provide a satisfying bite. They’re rich in protein and low in fat, making them a healthy option.
• Garlic: Adds a bold and savory flavor that’s essential to the dish. Use fresh garlic for the best results.
• Lemon: The juice and zest brighten the dish with tangy citrus notes that balance the richness of the butter and shrimp.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Provide the spicy kick that elevates the dish. Adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.
• Olive Oil and Butter: Create a rich base for cooking the shrimp and building the sauce. The combination of the two adds depth to the dish.
• Parsley: A fresh herb that adds a pop of color and a subtle, earthy flavor to the dish.

Technique Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn opaque and pink.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a brighter, fresher flavor than bottled juice.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
• Deglaze the Pan: Adding lemon juice or stock to the skillet helps release the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan, enhancing the sauce.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Shrimp Pasta: Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful shrimp scampi.
• Shrimp Rice Bowl: Serve the shrimp over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa, topped with steamed vegetables.
• Shrimp Appetizer: Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties.
• Shrimp Tacos: Use the shrimp as a filling for tacos, topped with avocado, cilantro, and a drizzle of lime crema.

Additional Tips for Success

• Let the shrimp rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Double the sauce ingredients if you like extra sauce for dipping bread or tossing with pasta.
• If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Add ¼ cup of heavy cream to the skillet after the shrimp are cooked for a creamy twist.
• Herb-Infused Shrimp: Add fresh thyme or basil to the sauce for a different herbaceous flavor.
• Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Replace the smoked paprika with Cajun seasoning for a Southern-inspired dish.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry: Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a quick stir-fry version of this recipe.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of water or stock to refresh the sauce.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use olive oil instead of butter for a heart-healthy fat alternative.
• Serve the shrimp with cauliflower rice or a fresh salad for a low-carb meal.
• Add steamed spinach or kale to the skillet for extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Parties: Pair Quick Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp with a glass of crisp white wine and serve it as the main course with garlic bread and a side salad.
• Casual Gatherings: Serve the shrimp as an appetizer with toothpicks and a dipping sauce.
• Weeknight Dinners: Enjoy the shrimp over pasta or rice for a quick and easy family meal.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan for cooking the shrimp and sauce.
• Zester or microplane for zesting the lemon.
• Tongs for flipping the shrimp easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Q2: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Cook the garlic over medium heat and stir constantly. Add the shrimp as soon as the garlic becomes fragrant to prevent burning.

Q3: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
While fresh shrimp are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Simply add them to the skillet at the end and heat them through.

Q4: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Q5: Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

Q6: What other proteins can I use?
This recipe works well with scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Q7: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the shrimp and sauce ingredients in advance to save time.

Q8: What sides pair best with this dish?
Pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad are excellent sides for this dish.

Conclusion

Quick Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, cooking for your family, or looking for a quick and healthy meal, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. The combination of tender shrimp, zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and spicy chili flakes creates a bold and unforgettable flavor profile. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes!

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