Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fresh Herbs

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious seafood dish, look no further than Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fresh Herbs. This scrumptious recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with tender shrimp, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It takes less than 30 minutes from preparation to the dining table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures that the shrimp cook quickly and evenly, resulting in a delightful texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated in the flavorful marinade. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish

After marinating, transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and basil evenly over the shrimp, adding a burst of color and freshness.

Step 4: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if left in the oven for too long.

Step 5: Serve

Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven. Serve the Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with additional lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Cilantro or dill can also complement the shrimp beautifully.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish alongside a light pasta, quinoa, or even a warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious lemon-garlic sauce.

Mouthwatering Descriptions

Imagine biting into perfectly cooked shrimp, bursting with zest from the lemon and warmth from the garlic. The fresh herbs add a vibrant touch that elevates the dish to a gourmet experience. This Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp is not only a feast for the palate but also a delight for the eyes, with its lovely colors and tempting aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Dietary Variations

If you’re looking to adapt this recipe for dietary preferences, here are a few ideas:

• Low-Carb/Keto: Serve with steamed vegetables instead of bread or pasta.
• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free; enjoy it without any modifications.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure that any accompanying bread or side dishes are gluten-free.

Enhance Your Cooking Experience

To elevate your cooking skills, consider exploring additional resources on seafood preparation and cooking techniques. Websites like Serious Eats offer a plethora of tutorials and articles dedicated to mastering seafood dishes.

For a more comprehensive understanding of herbs and their uses in cooking, check out Herb Gardening Basics. Fresh herbs can transform your culinary creations, adding layers of flavor and sophistication.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fresh Herbs is a dish that combines simplicity with elegance. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or entertaining guests, this recipe will surely impress anyone at your table. With a few key ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite!