This pan-seared lemon garlic shrimp is a quick and delicious dish that shines with fresh flavors. Juicy shrimp are cooked to perfection with a zesty lemon and garlic sauce!
If you’re a shrimp lover like me, you’ll want to whip this up often. It takes just minutes to make—perfect for a busy weeknight or a fancy dinner! Pair it with rice or pasta for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are great for this dish, but medium works too. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, frozen shrimp are a good alternative. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking!
Olive Oil: Using extra virgin olive oil brings a nice flavor. If you want a higher smoke point, consider avocado oil. It has a mild taste and can handle the heat well.
Butter: I love using unsalted butter for control over seasoning. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a plant-based butter works too, but it will slightly change the flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best in this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Lemon: Fresh lemon adds bright flavor. If you have a lemon juice, use half the amount to keep the tanginess, though it won’t be as fresh tasting.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on the Shrimp?
Getting that golden-brown sear on shrimp is all about timing and heat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure shrimp are patted dry—this helps them sear instead of steam.
- Heat your olive oil until it’s shimmering; you want it hot to get that nice crust.
- Cook the shrimp undisturbed for 2 minutes on one side. This allows them to develop a good sear.
- Flip them gently and add butter and garlic. Spoon the sauce over the shrimp to enhance the flavor and ensure even cooking.
Using these techniques will help you achieve tender, flavorful shrimp every time!
How to Make Pan Seared Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a super quick and delicious option for any meal. In just a short time, you’ll have a flavorful dish that’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture, which allows the shrimp to sear nicely. Then, season the shrimp generously with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. You want it hot enough to sear the shrimp quickly.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t move them around just yet! Let them cook for about 2 minutes until they start turning pink on the bottom and develop a beautiful sear.
4. Add Flavor:
Carefully flip the shrimp over, then add the butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the skillet. As the shrimp cook, stir the garlic so it doesn’t burn. Spoon the melted butter and garlic sauce over the shrimp to enhance their flavor.
5. Finish Cooking:
Continue cooking the shrimp for another 1-2 minutes until they are completely opaque and cooked through. Make sure to keep spooning the buttery sauce over the shrimp for extra flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the shrimp. Toss gently to mix. If you like, you can also garnish with lemon slices for a nice touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your pan-seared lemon garlic shrimp immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, perfect for soaking up that delicious lemon garlic butter sauce!
Enjoy your meal and the burst of fresh flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to properly thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative works well. Keep in mind, though, that coconut oil may add a subtle coconut flavor to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain their tenderness.
What Other Dishes Pair Well with Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
This dish is versatile! It pairs nicely with pasta, rice, or quinoa. For a light meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a refreshing balance.