How to Make Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp in Simple Steps
Are you looking for a delicious, quick, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for dinner or a party appetizer? Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp is the answer! This mouthwatering recipe is packed with citrusy lemon, zesty garlic, and juicy shrimp that everyone will love. The best part? You can make it in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the easy steps to create this delightful dish.
Why Choose Roasted Shrimp?
Shrimp is a healthy and versatile protein that cooks incredibly quickly. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness while making it nicely tender and juicy. With the addition of lemon and garlic, roasted shrimp becomes a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, roasted shrimp is perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
To make Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp, you only need a handful of basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound (approximately 450g) raw shrimp (peeled and deveined; tails can be left on for presentation)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (approximately half a lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (grated from the peel)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
You might already have most of these ingredients in your pantry! If not, they’re easy to find at your local grocery store.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- A baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- A zester (or a grater) for the lemon zest
- A knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s dive into how to make tangy, flavorful roasted shrimp:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting shrimp at high heat ensures they cook evenly and get that perfect juicy texture. While the oven is heating, prepare your shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
If you’re using fresh shrimp, make sure they are peeled and deveined. You can leave the tails on for a more rustic look, or remove them if preferred. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them first under cold running water or in the fridge overnight.
Place the shrimp into a mixing bowl and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp will roast better and not become soggy.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together:
- Mince the garlic: Add the minced garlic for the robust flavor.
- Olive oil: This makes the shrimp juicy and keeps them from drying out while roasting.
- Lemon juice and zest: Both add tanginess and brightness to the dish. The zest is especially important for a punch of lemon flavor.
- Seasonings: Add paprika (if using), salt, pepper, and chili flakes for spice and depth of flavor.
Step 4: Toss Shrimp in the Marinade
Pour the marinade over the shrimp and toss them until they are evenly coated. You can use your hands (clean, of course!) or a spoon to mix. Let the shrimp sit for 5-10 minutes so they can soak up the tasty flavors.
Step 5: Arrange Shrimp on the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. Spread the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Make sure they’re not piled on top of each other—crowding them can prevent even cooking.
Step 6: Roast Your Shrimp
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast the shrimp for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them because shrimp cook very quickly! You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will turn rubbery, so be careful not to leave them in the oven for too long.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley for extra freshness and a pop of green color.
You can serve Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp as an appetizer, over pasta, rice, or salad for a complete meal. Add an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top for a zesty finish.
Tips for Cooking Perfect Roasted Shrimp
- Don’t skip the lemon zest: It adds concentrated lemon flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
- Use fresh garlic: While garlic powder works in a pinch, fresh garlic has a more intense taste.
- Customize your seasonings: Adjust the salt, spice, or herbs based on your preferences.
- Watch the oven closely: Shrimp cook fast, so don’t walk away from the kitchen!
Conclusion
Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp is one of those recipes that’s quick, flavorful, and foolproof. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its citrusy tang, garlicky aroma, and juicy shrimp. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it as-is, pair it with your favorite sides, or even layer it into tacos or wraps.
So grab some shrimp, lemons, and garlic, and let’s get started. With this easy recipe, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish in no time!
