Description
This Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Skillet is a quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired main course featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, this dish combines the brightness of fresh lemon juice and zest with the richness of butter and garlic, all cooked together on the stovetop for an easy, impressive meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then evenly season with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the garlic sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Add lemon and broth: Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and low sodium chicken broth, scraping the skillet bottom to lift any flavorful browned bits. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly reduces, intensifying the flavors.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently to coat evenly with the lemon garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through and well coated.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a fresh, herbal note and garnish with lemon slices. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with additional olive oil.
- Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
