Garlic Shrimp Recipe

 Simple, bold, and bursting with flavor, Garlic Shrimp is a Mediterranean classic that transforms a few basic ingredients into an unforgettable dish. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in fragrant olive oil with plenty of fresh garlic, herbs, and a hint of chili or lemon for extra zest. Whether served as an appetizer, a tapas-style bite, or over rice or pasta, garlic shrimp delivers a restaurant-quality experience in minutes.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water. Pat them very, very dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear and preventing them from steaming.
2. Season the shrimp lightly with about ¼ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. Heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the sliced or minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Be very careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. (Cook in two batches if your skillet is not large enough to avoid overcrowding, which would steam the shrimp instead of searing them).
2. Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque and curl into a C-shape. Do not overcook, as they will become rubbery.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Stir in the 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley. Toss everything together quickly to coat the shrimp in the delicious garlic butter sauce.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh parsley if desired.

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Extra Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp

• Dry Shrimp is Key: The drier your shrimp are, the better they will sear and the less watery your sauce will be.
• Don't Overcook: Shrimp cook extremely fast. As soon as they are pink and opaque, they're done. Pull them off the heat immediately.
• Fresh Garlic: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic in a jar won't give you the same vibrant taste.

• Versatile Serving:

• Appetizer: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Main Course: Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or a simple side of pasta (like angel hair or linguine).
• Salad Topper: Add to a fresh green salad.
• Tacos/Wraps: Use as a filling for shrimp tacos or lettuce wraps.
• Slightly Saucy: If you want a bit more sauce, you can add a splash (1/4 cup) of chicken or vegetable broth after removing the shrimp in Step 3, let it simmer for a minute, then proceed with lemon juice and parsley.

Nutritional Value 

Approximate (per serving, based on 2 servings)

Benefits 

• ✅ Rich in Lean Protein: Shrimp is a great source of high-quality, low-fat protein.
• ✅ Quick & Healthy: Cooks in under 10 minutes with minimal oil and no heavy sauces.
• ✅ Heart-Friendly: Made with olive oil and garlic—two pillars of the Mediterranean diet.
• ✅ Versatile: Can be served with pasta, salad, rice, or crusty bread.
• ✅ Naturally Low in Carbs: Suitable for low-carb, keto, and gluten-free diets.

Fast, flavorful, and packed with Mediterranean goodness, Garlic Shrimp is proof that the best dishes don’t need to be complicated. With just a few ingredients, this dish captures the essence of healthy, home-cooked elegance—and it's ready in minutes.

Discover more quick Mediterranean recipes, healthy shrimp dishes, and easy weeknight meals on our site. Add this Garlic Shrimp recipe to your favorites and enjoy a zesty, satisfying dish that works as an appetizer, main, or part of a mezze spread.