Spicy Garlic Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its irresistible combination of garlic, lemon, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce. Let’s dive into how you can make this easy yet impressive dish!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something about shrimp that can elevate a meal instantly. Not only are they delicious and versatile, but they also cook quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights. This Spicy Garlic Shrimp is packed with flavor but surprisingly simple, showcasing how a few quality ingredients can create a restaurant-worthy dish in just minutes. The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic combined with the mild heat from red pepper flakes provide a well-balanced flavor profile that complements the sweetness of shrimp beautifully. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seafood.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, plus more to taste
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

How To Make Spicy Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Make sure they are thoroughly peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper to taste. This will help enhance their natural flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking. This will ensure that the shrimp get a nice sear.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds. You want to cook it just until it’s fragrant and golden, being careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can become bitter.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as that can cause steaming instead of sautéing. If your skillet isn’t large enough, work in batches.

Step 5: Add the Red Pepper Flakes and Lemon

After the shrimp is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine, allowing the shrimp to absorb the flavors for another minute or so.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve your Spicy Garlic Shrimp with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. This dish is fantastic over pasta, rice, or even on its own for a lighter meal.

Expert Tips

For best results, use fresh shrimp. Frozen shrimp can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference.
Always taste and season after cooking; adding salt and pepper after the dish is ready helps to balance the flavors.
Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.

Variations and Customizations

Add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
For a more Asian-inspired dish, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or hoisin sauce.
Swap out lemon juice for lime juice for a different citrus flavor profile.
Incorporate coconut milk to create a creamy version of Spicy Garlic Shrimp, perfect to serve over rice.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the Shrimp cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep the shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp and making them rubbery. If you notice the shrimp drying out, add a splash of water or broth to help them retain moisture.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry for the best results.

What other spices can I add to give it more flavor?

You can experiment with spices such as paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also complement the dish well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp in advance and quickly reheat them when ready to serve. Just be cautious not to overcook them during reheating.

What can I serve with Spicy Garlic Shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. You can also serve it over a bed of greens for a refreshing salad option.

Conclusion

Spicy Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that exemplifies how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With its vibrant flavors and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious seafood meal without the hassle. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and start cooking — your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy!

Print Recipe Save it for later