Sheet-Pan

Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest; 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh basil

By Theo Delacroix · June 19, 2026 · Sheet-Pan

Prep15 min

Cook12 min

Total30 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made Lemon Garlic Shrimp for my family. It was a weeknight, and I was looking for a dish that was both quick and delicious. The combination of succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and pungent garlic was a hit with everyone. As someone who's passionate about balanced, blood-sugar-friendly cooking, I was thrilled to create a recipe that not only tasted great but also fit our dietary needs.

Over the years, I've perfected this recipe, and it's become a staple in our household. The beauty of Lemon Garlic Shrimp lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're a busy professional or an avid home cook, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a flavorful and healthy meal.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of sides, from quinoa and roasted vegetables to a simple green salad. It's also a great option for meal prep, as it can be cooked in advance and reheated when needed. In this article, I'll share my tips and tricks for making the perfect Lemon Garlic Shrimp, including how to choose the freshest ingredients and how to cook the shrimp to perfection.

So, if you're looking for a recipe that's easy, delicious, and good for you, then you're in the right place. Let's dive into the world of Lemon Garlic Shrimp and explore the simplicity and flavor of this beloved dish.

As we cook, I'll share some of my favorite tips and techniques for making this recipe a success. From the importance of using high-quality ingredients to the secret to cooking shrimp that's tender and juicy, I'll cover it all. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to create a truly unforgettable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
It's a healthy and balanced option for a weeknight dinner.
The combination of lemon and garlic creates a flavorful and aromatic dish.
It's perfect for meal prep and can be cooked in advance.
It's a versatile recipe that can be served with a variety of sides.
It's a great option for special occasions or everyday meals.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is the balance of flavors. The acidity of the lemon juice helps to brighten the dish, while the pungency of the garlic adds depth and richness. The shrimp, of course, is the star of the show, and cooking it to the perfect doneness is crucial. I'll share my secrets for achieving tender, flavorful shrimp that's sure to impress.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. By using a combination of sautéing and baking, we can achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior. This technique also helps to preserve the delicate flavor of the shrimp, ensuring that it's not overpowered by the other ingredients.

Finally, the use of aromatics such as garlic and lemon zest adds a layer of complexity to the dish. These ingredients help to create a fragrant and flavorful sauce that enhances the overall taste experience. By understanding how these ingredients work together, we can create a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Lemon Garlic Shrimp, the quality of the ingredients is crucial. Look for fresh, sustainable shrimp and use high-quality garlic and lemons. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and spices to find the combination that works best for you.

Here are the ingredients you'll need to make this recipe:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveinedLook for fresh, sustainable shrimp that's free of additives and preservatives. If you can't find large shrimp, you can also use smaller ones, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2 cloves garlic, mincedUse high-quality garlic that's fresh and has a strong aroma. You can also use garlic powder or granules if you prefer, but fresh garlic is always best.
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juiceUse a manual or electric juicer to extract the juice from fresh lemons. Don't use bottled lemon juice, as it can be too acidic and may contain preservatives.
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilChoose a high-quality olive oil that's rich in flavor and has a smooth texture. You can also use other oils like avocado or grapeseed, but olive oil is traditional in this recipe.
1 teaspoon dried thymeUse fresh or dried thyme, depending on what's available. Thyme adds a savory flavor that complements the lemon and garlic perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon saltUse kosher or sea salt, as they have a coarser texture and a more nuanced flavor than table salt.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use white pepper if you prefer a milder flavor.
1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsleyUse curly or flat-leaf parsley, depending on what's available. Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
2 tablespoons grated lemon zestUse a microplane or fine grater to extract the zest from fresh lemons. Don't use bottled lemon zest, as it can be too bitter and may contain preservatives.
1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh basilUse sweet or Genovese basil, depending on what's available. Basil adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsCutting boardKnifeInstant-read thermometerSheet pan

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp

1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy cleanup.
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4
Remove the shrimp from the marinade and place them on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the shrimp.
5
Roast the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they're pink and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the shrimp.
6
While the shrimp are cooking, mix the chopped parsley, basil, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
7
Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the parsley mixture over the top.
8
Return the shrimp to the oven and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the herbs are fragrant and the shrimp are lightly browned.
9
Remove the shrimp from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
10
Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Expert Tips

Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Don't overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Let the shrimp rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Experiment with different seasonings and spices to find the combination that works best for you.
Serve the shrimp with a variety of sides, such as quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Consider using other types of protein, such as chicken or tofu, for a variation on this recipe.
Make sure to cook the shrimp to the recommended internal temperature to ensure food safety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the shrimp, which can make them tough and rubbery.
Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not letting the shrimp rest before serving, which can cause them to become dry and tough.
Not using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked shrimp.
Not experimenting with different seasonings and spices, which can make the dish boring and uninteresting.
Not serving the shrimp with a variety of sides, which can make the meal feel incomplete.

Variations and Substitutions

Use different types of protein, such as chicken or tofu, for a variation on this recipe.
Add other ingredients, such as diced onions or bell peppers, to the marinade for added flavor.
Use different types of citrus, such as lime or orange, for a unique twist on the recipe.
Add some heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos.
Serve the shrimp with a variety of sides, such as quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Consider using a different cooking method, such as grilling or pan-frying, for a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Add some freshness to the dish by incorporating chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.

What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a more filling option.

Some other ideas for serving Lemon Garlic Shrimp include:

Serve with quinoa and roasted vegetablesServe with a simple green saladServe with crusty breadServe over a bed of rice

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Lemon Garlic Shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat, simply thaw the frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also reheat the shrimp in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat.

When reheating, make sure to check the internal temperature of the shrimp to ensure it reaches 145 F (63 C) for food safety. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the shrimp.

It's also important to note that Lemon Garlic Shrimp can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen until ready to serve. Simply prepare the marinade and shrimp as directed, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of shrimp you prefer, but larger shrimp tend to work best for this recipe. Look for fresh, sustainable shrimp that's free of additives and preservatives.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Simply thaw the shrimp according to the package instructions and pat dry with paper towels before using.

How long can I store Lemon Garlic Shrimp in the refrigerator?

Lemon Garlic Shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.

Can I freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp?

Yes, you can freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp for up to 2 months. Simply place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

How do I reheat Lemon Garlic Shrimp?

To reheat Lemon Garlic Shrimp, simply thaw the frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also reheat the shrimp in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat.

What is the internal temperature of cooked shrimp?

The internal temperature of cooked shrimp should be at least 145 F (63 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the shrimp.

Can I make Lemon Garlic Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Lemon Garlic Shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve. Simply prepare the marinade and shrimp as directed, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming tough and rubbery?

To prevent the shrimp from becoming tough and rubbery, make sure not to overcook them. Cook the shrimp until they're pink and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).

The Full Recipe

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