If you're in the mood for something quick, flavorful, and impressive, this Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skillet is calling your name. With a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll have a dish that bursts with bright citrus and savory garlic. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for guests.
Shrimp: The star of our dish, shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it ideal for this skillet recipe.
Garlic: Adds a robust and pungent aroma that pairs perfectly with shrimp.
Lemon zest and lemon juice: These bring a zesty, refreshing brightness that elevates the entire dish.
Olive oil: Used to sautΓ© the garlic and shrimp, providing a subtle richness.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of the dish.
Parsley: Fresh and slightly peppery, it adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light pasta like angel hair tossed with olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan. It's also great with a crisp green salad or over a bed of fluffy couscous to soak up all that lemony goodness.
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is hot enough to sizzle a drop of water, which means it's ready for the next step.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it gently and let it cook for about a minute until it's fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and black pepper. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on each side. You'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque.
Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. This will deglaze the pan and infuse the shrimp with that lovely citrus flavor.
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. The parsley should be added at the end to keep its vibrant color and fresh taste.