Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Lemon garlic shrimp is a classic dish that has been beloved by many for its simplicity and delicious taste. The combination of lemon zest, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an exquisite flavor profile that elevates any meal.

Ingredients for Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp

For 4 servings, you will need:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• Cooking spray for the pan

Cooking Time and Preparation

This dish is simple enough to prepare within 30 minutes. The shrimp should be cooked until opaque but still tender.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet: Over medium heat, warm up the olive oil in your pan and add the minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant but not browned (about 1-2 minutes).
2. Add the shrimp: Carefully add the peeled shrimp to the pan making sure they are all evenly distributed over the surface.
3. Saute the shrimp with lemon zest: After a minute or two, stir in the lemon zest and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp start turning opaque. This will depend on their size; larger shrimp may need more time than smaller ones.
4. Season and finish cooking: Mix in salt, pepper, and fresh parsley if using. Continue stirring gently to incorporate all flavors into the dish. Cook for an additional minute or two, ensuring that no liquid remains inside the pan as this could overcook your shrimp.

Tips for Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp:

• For a richer flavor, marinate your shrimp in olive oil and lemon zest overnight before cooking. This helps enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the amount of garlic used; however, remember that garlic adds significant depth to this recipe.
• Aim for a well-seasoned pan. If your skillet is not properly seasoned, you might end up with a gummy texture from too much oil sticking together rather than creating a crisp exterior on the shrimp.

Nutritional Information:

This dish provides excellent sources of protein and healthy fats while being relatively low in carbohydrates. The exact nutritional information can vary based on portion size, but here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 150
• Protein: About 24g
• Fat: Around 8g (mostly from olive oil)
• Sodium: Depending on salt used; adjust to your dietary needs.

Pairing Suggestions:

To complete the meal, consider serving it over a bed of cooked rice or alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. A glass of white wine also pairs wonderfully with this dish for an elevated dining experience!

Tips for Cooking Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp:

1. Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp whenever possible.
2. If you're using frozen shrimp, always thaw them completely before cooking. Overcooking can easily result in rubbery texture.
3. The key to this dish is balance – don't overseason with salt; let the natural flavors of lemon and garlic shine through instead.

Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp is not just about taste; it's also about presentation. Serve it on a platter that complements its vibrant colors and lively ingredients, adding an extra layer of visual appeal to your meal.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a quick yet impressive dinner idea, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions – from casual weeknight meals to more formal gatherings. Happy cooking!