Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp: 1 irresistible dish

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Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp has become my go-to for those evenings when I crave something delicious but don’t have a lot of time. I remember the first time I made this easy lemon herb shrimp; the aroma of garlic and lemon filled my kitchen, and my family practically ran to the table! The shrimp cooks up so quickly, becoming tender and succulent, coated in a bright, zesty sauce that just sings with fresh herbs. It’s the perfect way to bring a taste of summer to any meal, especially when paired with that vibrant strawberry-basil salsa. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

This recipe is a total winner for so many reasons. Get ready to add it to your regular rotation!

It’s incredibly quick – perfect for busy weeknights.
The bright, fresh flavors are a taste of sunshine.
You get tender, perfectly cooked shrimp every time.
The optional strawberry-basil salsa adds a unique, delightful twist.
It’s a versatile dish; enjoy it as a light main course or a flavorful appetizer.
This easy lemon herb shrimp recipe is simple enough for beginners.
The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs is simply irresistible.
It makes for a fantastic lemon herb shrimp for dinner option that feels special.

Ingredients for Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

Gather these simple ingredients for a burst of fresh flavor. This lemon herb herb shrimp recipe comes together in no time!

1.5 lbs large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined – I prefer tail-on for presentation, but tail-off works too!
3 tablespoons olive oil – Extra virgin gives the best flavor for the marinade.
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – This is key for that bright, zesty sauce.
1 tablespoon lemon zest – Don’t skip this; it adds an intense lemon aroma and flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced garlic provides a pungent kick.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Essential for balancing all the flavors.
1 pint strawberries, diced – For the sweet and tangy salsa.
1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced – Its aromatic, slightly peppery taste complements the strawberries.
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped – Adds a nice bite and color to the salsa.
2 tablespoons lime juice – Brightens up the salsa and adds another layer of citrus.
Optional: chili flakes or hot sauce – For a little heat if you like it spicy.
Cooked rice, quinoa, or greens for serving – Your base for this delicious meal.

Key Ingredients and Their Purpose

The star of this dish is, of course, the shrimp, providing a lean protein base. Fresh lemon juice and zest are crucial for that signature tangy, bright flavor that defines the saucy lemon herb shrimp. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil not only add beautiful color but also infuse the dish with vibrant, aromatic notes, making it truly special. For more information on the health benefits of shrimp, you can check out Healthline’s guide to shrimp.

How to Make Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

This recipe comes together incredibly fast, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Follow these simple steps for a delicious pan-seared shrimp dish bursting with flavor.

Preparing the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 4 cloves minced garlic, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper. Add the 1.5 lbs peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and toss to ensure each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the salsa.

Making the Strawberry-Basil Salsa

While the shrimp is soaking up all those wonderful flavors, create the vibrant salsa. In a separate bowl, gently combine the 1 pint diced strawberries, 1/4 cup sliced fresh basil, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, and 2 tablespoons lime juice. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. If you like a little heat with your easy lemon herb shrimp, stir in some optional chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Mix gently to avoid bruising the strawberries.

Cooking the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque and develop a beautiful sear. This quick cooking time is what makes this quick saucy shrimp recipe so fast. The aroma of the garlic and lemon will be amazing!

Pro Tips for the Best Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

Want to elevate your shrimp game? These simple tricks will ensure your saucy lemon herb shrimp is restaurant-quality every time. Trust me, a little attention to detail makes all the difference!

Always pat your shrimp completely dry before marinating and cooking. This helps them sear beautifully instead of steaming.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Use fresh lemon juice and zest; bottled just won’t give you that bright, vibrant flavor.
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after cooking the shrimp.

What’s the secret to perfect pan-seared shrimp?

The key is a screaming hot pan and not overcrowding it. Patting the shrimp dry before searing also ensures a beautiful crust, making your pan seared lemon herb shrimp truly exceptional.

Can I make the strawberry-basil salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! The salsa can be made up to 2-3 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier.

How do I avoid common mistakes with shrimp recipes?

Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they cook very quickly! Also, ensure they are completely thawed if using frozen. Rinsing and patting them dry before marinating is crucial for flavor and texture. For more tips on cooking seafood, visit Serious Eats’ guide to cooking seafood.

Best Ways to Serve Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

This incredibly versatile saucy lemon herb shrimp recipe is fantastic served in so many ways. Its bright, zesty flavor makes it a winner no matter how you choose to enjoy it. I love how it pairs with simple sides to create a complete, satisfying meal that feels both light and decadent.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a complete meal, serve this lemon herb shrimp for dinner over fluffy cooked rice, hearty quinoa, or a bed of fresh greens. The contrast of the warm shrimp and cool salsa is delightful. A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, makes a wonderful pairing, complementing the citrus and herb notes beautifully. You can find more about wine pairings on Food & Wine’s pairing guide.

Nutrition Facts for Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for one serving of this delicious saucy lemon herb shrimp, including the shrimp and salsa served over a cup of rice. It’s a wonderfully balanced and flavorful choice for dinner.

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 150mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes used.

How to Store and Reheat Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

Don’t let any of this deliciousness go to waste! Knowing how to properly store and reheat your saucy lemon herb shrimp ensures you can enjoy the leftovers just as much as the first meal. It’s a fantastic dish to have on hand for quick lunches or another easy dinner.

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover shrimp and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp (without the salsa) for up to 3 months. The salsa can also be frozen, though the strawberries might become a bit softer upon thawing.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat the shrimp, I recommend a quick sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of olive oil, or a gentle warm-up in the microwave. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough. For the salsa, it’s best served chilled or at room temperature, so simply let it thaw if frozen or take it out of the fridge a bit before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

Can I use different herbs in this recipe?

Absolutely! While parsley and basil are fantastic, feel free to experiment. Dill, chives, or even a little thyme can offer a lovely twist to your lemon herb shrimp recipe. Just ensure they are fresh for the best flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for a weeknight dinner?

Definitely! This easy lemon herb shrimp is a weeknight lifesaver. With just 15 minutes of prep and about 10 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious, healthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy evenings. For more quick meal ideas, check out our recipes section.

What kind of shrimp is best for this recipe?

For the best results with this quick saucy shrimp recipe, I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp. Look for shrimp labeled 16/20 or 21/25 count per pound. They have a great texture and cook up beautifully without overcooking too quickly.

Variations of Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp You Can Try

This delightful saucy lemon herb shrimp recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Whether you’re looking to add a kick, boost the garlic, or serve it in a new way, there are plenty of simple variations to explore. These ideas will help you customize this dish to your exact preferences, making it a truly unique experience. You can learn more about adapting recipes on our about me page.

Spicy Lemon Herb Shrimp Variation

For those who love a bit of heat, this variation is for you! Simply increase the amount of chili flakes or hot sauce in the marinade and salsa. You could even add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick to your spicy lemon herb shrimp.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skillet Variation

Want to really amp up the garlic flavor? This lemon garlic shrimp skillet variation is perfect. Add an extra 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the marinade, and consider sautéing a few more cloves in the skillet with the olive oil before adding the shrimp for an intensely garlicky dish.

Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Herb Sauce

Transform this shrimp dish into a comforting pasta meal! Serve the cooked shrimp over your favorite pasta, like linguine or fettuccine. You can create a richer shrimp pasta with lemon herb sauce by adding a splash of white wine to the pan after cooking the shrimp and letting it reduce, then tossing with cooked pasta and the shrimp. For more pasta inspiration, visit our home page.