Craving a quick and tasty seafood dish? Look no further! Garlic Lemon Roasted Shrimp is not only simple to prepare, but it’s bursting with flavor. In this post, I’ll guide you through the easy steps to whip up this mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a busy parent or a cooking newbie, you’ll impress your family and friends with this delightful meal in no time!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Lemon Roasted Shrimp
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Zest from 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
For this dish, I prefer using large shrimp. They hold flavor well and cook quickly. Fresh garlic gives the best taste. The lemon juice and zest add brightness, making the shrimp pop. Extra virgin olive oil helps everything blend and adds richness.
Optional Flavor Enhancers
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Smoked paprika adds a nice depth. If you like heat, red pepper flakes can spice things up. Always use salt and freshly ground black pepper to make the flavors shine.
Garnish Requirements
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness. It makes your dish look great and taste even better.
This recipe is simple yet full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mixing the Ingredients
– Combine shrimp with garlic, lemon juice, zest, and seasonings.
– Marinate the shrimp for 15-20 minutes.
In this step, I use fresh shrimp and mix it with garlic, lemon juice, and zest. The garlic gives a strong flavor, while lemon adds brightness. I also add olive oil, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if you like heat. Salt and pepper help balance the taste. Marinating helps the shrimp soak in these wonderful flavors.
Roasting the Shrimp
– Arrange shrimp on the baking sheet.
– Roast for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Once marinated, I place the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet. This way, they roast evenly. After 8-10 minutes, the shrimp should be pink and opaque. Stirring halfway ensures every piece cooks well. When they come out, they smell amazing and look delicious. I always let them rest for a minute before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Marinade
Marinating shrimp is key to taste. I suggest marinating for 15-20 minutes. This time lets the flavors blend well. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. If you want it spicy, add more red pepper flakes.
Achieving the Ideal Roast
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. This helps the shrimp cook evenly. If they are crowded, they will steam rather than roast. Look for shrimp that are pink and opaque. This shows they are fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve roasted shrimp with fluffy jasmine rice or a fresh salad. You can drizzle some leftover marinade over the shrimp before serving. This adds extra flavor and brightness to the dish.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Lemon Shrimp
To make your dish spicy, add more red pepper flakes. Start with one teaspoon for heat. You can adjust it based on your taste. If you love spice, go ahead and double the amount! This adds a nice kick and balances the lemon flavor. The heat complements the garlic well, making each bite exciting.
Herb-Infused Shrimp
Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a new twist. Chop the herbs finely and add them to the shrimp mixture. About two tablespoons of each herb will do. The herbs add depth and freshness. They bring a lovely aroma as they roast with the shrimp. You can play with other herbs too, like basil or dill.
Garlic Lemon Shrimp Skewers
To turn this recipe into skewers, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. Use metal or soaked wooden skewers. Make sure the shrimp are evenly spaced. This helps them cook evenly. Grill the skewers on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. You can serve them with a lemon wedge for an extra burst of flavor. Skewers make for fun finger food at gatherings.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your garlic lemon roasted shrimp fresh, cool them first. Let the shrimp sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes after roasting. This step helps prevent moisture build-up. Next, place the shrimp in airtight containers. These containers help keep out air and moisture, which can spoil the dish.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your shrimp will stay good for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, use your freezer. Shrimp can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just make sure to seal them well to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating Tips
When you are ready to enjoy your shrimp again, reheat them gently. The best way is to use a skillet over low heat. This method warms the shrimp without drying them out. You can also use the microwave. If you choose this method, heat in short intervals of about 30 seconds. Check often to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
How can I tell if shrimp are cooked?
You can tell shrimp are cooked by their color and texture. Look for a bright pink hue. The shrimp should also feel firm to the touch and opaque. If they appear gray or translucent, they need more time.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Start by thawing them in cold water. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. After thawing, pat them dry with paper towels. Then, you can follow the recipe as is. The same marination time applies, so let them sit in the marinade for 15-20 minutes.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other oils. Canola oil and avocado oil work well for roasting. Both have high smoke points and mild flavors. You can also try melted butter for a richer taste.
Garlic lemon roasted shrimp is a simple dish with big flavors. We covered the key ingredients needed, like fresh shrimp, garlic, and lemon. You learned how to mix, marinate, and roast shrimp. Tips for cooking them just right help avoid overcooking. Consider adding your own twist with spices or herbs for variety. Proper storage will keep your leftovers fresh. Enjoy making this tasty meal, and share it with others!
