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Pan-Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a delightful and quick seafood dish that brings the flavors of the ocean right to your kitchen. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with the zesty brightness of lemon and the aromatic goodness of garlic, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Whether served over pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This helps to ensure a good sear. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot but not smoking, as this will help to achieve a nice sear on the shrimp.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Zest
Once the shrimp are cooked through, add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point. Toss everything together to ensure the shrimp are well coated.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
What can I serve with Pan-Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-lemon sauce.
How long does it take to cook shrimp?
Shrimp cook very quickly, usually around 4-6 minutes total, depending on their size. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! You can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to give it an extra kick.
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) work best for this recipe, but you can use medium or jumbo shrimp as well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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