If you crave a big burst of flavor in just one pan, this One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp dish is for you. I’ll show you how to whip up a quick, tasty meal that’s perfect for any night. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your family or friends. Let’s dive into this zesty recipe that’s sure to become a kitchen favorite!
Ingredients
Complete Ingredients List
To make One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp, you need these simple items:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
This list keeps things easy and fresh. You can find these items at your local store.
Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp
I often use fresh shrimp for this dish. Fresh shrimp taste great and cook quickly. They have a nice texture and flavor. However, frozen shrimp are also good. They save time and can be just as tasty. When using frozen shrimp, thaw them before cooking. Run them under cold water for about 5-10 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap some ingredients if needed. For example, if you don’t have broccoli, try green beans or asparagus. Both work well and add color. If you want a different flavor, use lime juice instead of lemon juice. You can also skip garlic if you need a milder taste. Each swap gives a new twist to the dish. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Ingredients
To start, gather your ingredients. You will need:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to wash the broccoli well. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Mince the garlic finely. Fresh garlic gives a great flavor. Zest the lemon before juicing it. You want that bright zest for the shrimp.
Cooking Process for One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic. Cook it for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant but not burnt.
Next, toss in the broccoli florets. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like heat. Sauté the broccoli for 5-7 minutes. Stir it occasionally. You want it tender and bright green.
After the broccoli is ready, push it to one side of the pan. Add the last tablespoon of olive oil to the empty side. Then, place the shrimp in the pan. Sprinkle the lemon zest over the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque.
Finally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the whole dish. Toss everything together well. This combines all the flavors nicely.
Final Touches for Presentation
Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Chop some fresh parsley for garnish. Sprinkle it over the dish for color. This adds a nice touch and freshness. Serve the One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp hot from the pan. It looks great and tastes even better. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Sauté
To make your shrimp and broccoli shine, heat your oil well. The pan should be hot. This helps the food cook evenly. Add the garlic first. It needs only a minute to release its flavor. Be careful not to burn it. Next, add the broccoli and season it well. Cook it until it’s bright green. This keeps it crunchy and fresh.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
Lemon juice and zest are your best friends here. They add a bright taste. Don’t skip the red pepper flakes if you like heat. They give a nice kick. Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of earthiness. You can also try adding a splash of white wine for depth. It makes the dish extra special.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is overcrowding the pan. If you add too much shrimp, they will steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if needed. Another mistake is cooking shrimp too long. They turn rubbery quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they are pink. Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper for the best flavor. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Variations
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
You can make this dish even better by adding more veggies. Try bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini. These vegetables add color and taste. They also boost the nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces. Add them with the broccoli and sauté together. This method keeps everything fresh and crunchy.
Spicy Version with Additional Ingredients
If you love heat, spice it up! Add more red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños. You can also toss in a splash of hot sauce. This twist gives the dish a bold kick. Just make sure to taste as you go. Adjust the spice to fit your taste.
Alternative Cooking Methods
You don’t have to stick to the skillet. You can grill the shrimp instead. Just marinate them in lemon juice and garlic first. Then, grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side. You can also roast everything in the oven. Spread the shrimp and veggies on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes. Both methods bring a unique flavor to the dish. For the full recipe, check out the One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, eat it soon.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
Reheat your shrimp in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to keep it moist. Heat for about 3-5 minutes until warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp tough.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool first. Place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy your shrimp at its best! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
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 15-20 minutes. This will help them cook evenly. If you add frozen shrimp directly to the pan, they may release extra water and affect the dish’s flavor.
What can I serve with One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
You can serve this dish with many sides. Here are a few ideas:
– Steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce.
– A fresh green salad for a crunchy contrast.
– Garlic bread to enjoy with the garlic flavor.
– Pasta if you want a heartier meal.
Each pairing brings out the shrimp’s bright lemon taste.
How long does it take to cook shrimp?
Shrimp cook very quickly. It usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. When shrimp turn pink and opaque, they are done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so watch them closely. Cooking them just right ensures that they stay tender and juicy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. All the ingredients, like shrimp, broccoli, and garlic, contain no gluten. You can enjoy it without worry. Just ensure that any side dishes you choose are also gluten-free.
In this blog post, we covered everything about making One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp. We explored ingredients, from fresh to frozen and some replacements. I laid out step-by-step cooking instructions and shared tips for a great sauté. You can even tweak the dish with veggies or spice. For storage, I gave clear ways to keep your leftovers fresh. Remember, shrimp cooks fast! Follow these steps, and you’ll impress anyone at your table with this tasty dish. Enjoy making it your own!
