Looking for a quick and tasty meal? You’ve come to the right place! This Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is simple and bursting with flavor. I’ll show you how to whip up a delicious dish using just a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Perfect for busy nights, it’s time to bring a burst of lemon and garlic goodness to your table. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: This dish combines zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, creating a refreshing and lively taste that brightens up any meal.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthful Ingredients: Loaded with protein from shrimp and packed with colorful vegetables, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Customizable Spice Level: The red pepper flakes can be adjusted to suit your taste, making it easy to cater to different spice preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp
For this dish, you need:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients create a fresh and vibrant flavor. The shrimp adds protein, while the veggies bring color and taste. Lemon and garlic elevate this dish.
Pantry Staples Needed
You will also need some common pantry items:
– Olive oil
– Salt
– Black pepper
These staples are key in many recipes. They help enhance the taste of the shrimp and veggies.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
To kick up the flavor, you might try:
– Extra lemon zest
– More red pepper flakes for heat
– A splash of white wine
Adding these can make your dish even more exciting. Personalize it to match your taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Marinade
First, I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This gives the shrimp a nice roast. While the oven heats, I grab a large mixing bowl. I add 4 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 minced garlic cloves. Next, I zest and juice 2 fresh lemons into the bowl. I find the zest adds a bright flavor. Then, I sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. I also add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Finally, I whisk everything together until it mixes well.
Marinating the Shrimp
Now, it’s time for the shrimp. I take 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and add it to the marinade. I toss the shrimp gently until each piece is well-coated. I let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps the shrimp absorb all those tasty flavors.
Arranging and Baking the Dish
While the shrimp marinates, I prepare my baking sheet. I spread 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 thinly sliced red onion, and 1 sliced red bell pepper evenly on the sheet. I drizzle a little olive oil over the veggies and sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. I give them a light toss to coat them. After that, I add the marinated shrimp on top of the vegetables. I make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking. I place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Halfway through, I stir the mixture gently. This helps the shrimp and vegetables cook evenly. Once the shrimp turn pink and opaque, I take the sheet out. I garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve it right away.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Marinade Flavor
To make your marinade pop, use fresh ingredients. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. The garlic gives a nice kick. Smoked paprika adds depth. Red pepper flakes bring heat. Adjust these spices to match your taste. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 10 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in well. If you have more time, marinate for up to 30 minutes for a richer taste.
Cooking Time Adjustments
Cooking times can change based on shrimp size. Large shrimp cook fast. Bake them for 10-12 minutes. If your shrimp are smaller, check them at 8 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque when done. Stir the shrimp and veggies halfway through. This ensures they cook evenly. If you like a bit of char, broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end. Watch closely so they don’t burn.
Serving Suggestions for Presentation
For a beautiful presentation, serve directly from the pan. This gives a rustic look. You can also use a large platter. Arrange the shrimp and veggies nicely on it. Add lemon wedges for a lovely touch. Fresh parsley on top adds color and flavor. This dish looks great and tastes even better. Enjoy it warm for the best experience!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. For a milder dish, reduce the quantity or omit it altogether.
- Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the shrimp while they’re baking; they cook quickly. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque for the best results.
- Garnish for Flavor: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor. Consider adding other herbs like basil or cilantro for a different twist!
Variations
Alternative Protein Options
You can swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken breast or thighs work well. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Fish, like salmon or tilapia, also makes a great choice. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through. Tofu is another option for a plant-based meal. Press and cube it before marinating for best results.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to change the veggies in this dish. Broccoli or asparagus adds a nice crunch. Zucchini or squash can bring a sweet taste. Carrots offer a touch of color and sweetness too. Just remember to cut them into small pieces for even cooking. You can even add leafy greens like spinach at the end of baking.
Spice Level Adjustments
Spice lovers can add more red pepper flakes for heat. You can also use fresh chili peppers for a kick. If you prefer mild dishes, reduce the red pepper flakes. A dash of cayenne pepper can also add a subtle kick. Taste the marinade before adding to your seafood or veggies. Adjust to suit your taste buds.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover lemon garlic shrimp in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days. Make sure to cool the shrimp before sealing the container. This helps keep flavors fresh.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the shrimp in a baking dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 10 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
Freezing Options for Meal Prep
You can freeze lemon garlic shrimp for later use. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes. This helps them thaw quickly and evenly. After thawing, peel and devein the shrimp if needed. Use them just like fresh shrimp in the recipe. They will still taste great!
What can I serve with lemon garlic shrimp?
Lemon garlic shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
– Rice: Steamed white or brown rice works well.
– Pasta: Toss it with olive oil and garlic for a nice touch.
– Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch and color.
– Bread: Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the juices.
These options balance the dish and add flavor to your meal.
How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked?
Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. The tails will curl slightly. If you cut one open, it should be white inside, with no gray. Cooking for about 10-12 minutes in the oven usually does the trick. Enjoy your perfectly cooked shrimp!
This blog post covered a simple and tasty way to make lemon garlic shrimp. We discussed key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned about variations, storage options, and answered common questions.
With this recipe, you can impress guests or enjoy a quick meal. Don’t forget to get creative with flavors and sides. Cooking shrimp can be easy and fun! Enjoy your delicious dis
