Zesty Skillet Garlic Shrimp
This Zesty Skillet Garlic Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp cooked quickly with garlic, lemon, and a hint of red pepper flakes. It's a perfect weeknight meal that's bursting with flavor and ready in minutes.
Equipment
- large skillet or frying pan
- paper towels
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on or off
- 4-5 garlic minced
- large lemon half for juice, half for serving wedges
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or cilantro/dill)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- If the shrimp are not already peeled and deveined, prepare them, then pat very dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Cooking
- Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer to the pan, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque; cook in batches if needed.
- Remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the fresh lemon juice and butter until the butter is melted and forms a light sauce.
Serving
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and a pinch of garlic powder for 15 minutes before cooking. Ensure the pan is hot enough to get a nice sear on the shrimp without overcooking them. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or a simple green salad.