One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp

This delicious and quick-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or when you're short on time. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can create a flavorful, zesty seafood dish that feels gourmet without the effort. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the shrimp:

   • If using fresh shrimp, peel and devein them, leaving the tails on if preferred. If you're using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels before cooking.

2. Heat the pan:

   • Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 1-2 minutes until it's shimmering.

3. Sauté the garlic:

   • Add the minced garlic to the hot pan. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn it).

4. Cook the shrimp:

   • Add the shrimp in a single layer to the pan. Cook for 2 minutes on one side without moving them, until they start turning pink around the edges.

5. Add butter and lemon:

   • Flip the shrimp and immediately add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan, followed by the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything gently to combine and allow the butter to melt completely.

6. Season and finish cooking:

   • Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked (they should be opaque and bright pink throughout). Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

7. Garnish and serve:

   • Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the shrimp for a burst of flavor and color. Serve the shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions:

• This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
• You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious buttery, garlicky sauce.

Tips for Beginners:

• Thaw Shrimp Properly: If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them fully before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
• Watch the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it while sautéing to ensure it only turns golden and fragrant.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly! Keep an eye on their color and texture—once they’re pink and curled, they’re done.

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a breeze to make and tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant. Give it a try and impress your family or guests with this easy yet elegant dish! Enjoy!