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- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 4 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - Zest of 1 lemon - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped - Lemon wedges for serving The ingredients for zesty lemon garlic shrimp combine to create a bright flavor. The shrimp serve as the star of the dish, offering a sweet and tender bite. Olive oil adds richness, while garlic gives a strong, savory touch. The zest and juice from the lemon bring a sharp, fresh taste. Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Lastly, a sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and herbiness. This dish is simple yet effective. Each ingredient works together in harmony. You can find the full recipe to guide you through the process. Whether you are cooking for yourself or friends, this meal will impress. Start by taking your large shrimp and placing them in a bowl. Add 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, the zest of one lemon, and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice. Toss everything well to coat the shrimp evenly. Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, along with salt and pepper to taste. This mix brings out the zesty flavor. Let the shrimp marinate for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature. This step is key to infusing the shrimp with all those bright flavors. Now, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, carefully add your marinated shrimp along with the marinade. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You know they are done when they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them, so they don’t overcook. This quick cooking time helps keep them juicy and flavorful. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your zesty lemon garlic shrimp right away with lemon wedges on the side. This adds an extra zesty touch that everyone will love. For the full recipe, check out the details above! When selecting shrimp, you can choose between fresh and frozen. Fresh shrimp often have a sweet taste. However, frozen shrimp can be just as good if thawed properly. Look for shrimp that are firm, not mushy. For this recipe, I recommend using large shrimp. They hold up well to cooking and create a nice bite. To make your dish stand out, adjust red pepper flakes to your liking. If you want a little heat, start with half a teaspoon. You can always add more. Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can bring complexity to the dish. They enhance the lemon and garlic flavors nicely. You can cook the shrimp in a skillet or on a grill. A skillet is faster and allows for more control. If you grill, make sure to keep an eye on them. Overcooking shrimp makes them tough. Cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. This keeps them juicy and tender. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section. {{image_2}} To make your dish hotter, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. This adds a nice kick and can elevate the flavors. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. You can always add more heat, but it's hard to take it away. If you love creamy dishes, try mixing in heavy cream. This makes the sauce richer and adds a new layer of flavor. Just pour in the cream after cooking the shrimp. Stir it gently until it warms up. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a more decadent meal. Zesty lemon garlic shrimp pairs well with many sides. Try serving it over pasta for a hearty meal. Rice also works great, soaking up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve it on a fresh salad. Each choice brings out the shrimp's bright flavors. Check out the Full Recipe to explore more ideas. To store leftover zesty lemon garlic shrimp, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the shrimp to room temperature first. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you reheat, do so gently to avoid overcooking. If you want to freeze the shrimp, follow these steps: - Let the shrimp cool completely. - Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. - Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. - Label the bag with the date. To reheat, thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge. Then, heat it in a skillet until warmed through. In the fridge, zesty lemon garlic shrimp lasts about three days. In the freezer, it can last up to three months. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. Proper storage keeps your meal safe and tasty! Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. To prepare, first thaw the shrimp. Place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Change the water halfway to speed up the thawing. After thawing, drain and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the shrimp absorb the flavors better. Zesty lemon garlic shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some tasty options: - Cooked rice or quinoa for a hearty base - Pasta tossed in olive oil or lemon sauce - Fresh green salad with a light dressing - Grilled vegetables for a healthy touch - Crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce You can tell shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Here are some tips: - Look for a tight C-shape; if they curl tightly, they are done. - Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. - Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery. To sum up, making zesty lemon garlic shrimp is simple and quick. You start with fresh shrimp, flavorful garlic, and lemon. Marinate for the best taste and cook until pink. Adjust spices to your liking and serve hot with lemon wedges. This dish is not just tasty but also versatile and easy to store. Whether you enjoy it spicy or with creamy twists, it will please anyone. Now, you can enjoy this delightful meal at home, impressing family and friends with your skills.

Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Delight your taste buds with this zesty lemon garlic shrimp recipe! Bursting with flavor from fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a hint of spice, this dish is simple to make and perfect for any occasion. In just 40 minutes, you can serve a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Click through for the full recipe and take your seafood dinner to the next level with this zesty favorite!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.

    Let the shrimp marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.

      Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp along with the marinade.

        Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.

          Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the fresh parsley over the shrimp.

            Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4