Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fresh Herbs Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy seafood dish, then Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fresh Herbs is the answer! This recipe combines succulent shrimp with vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For this delightful Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fresh Herbs:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help to cook the shrimp quickly while keeping them tender.
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Prepare the Shrimp: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated.
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Add Fresh Herbs: Gently fold in the freshly chopped parsley, basil, and thyme. This mixture will infuse the shrimp with a burst of flavor.
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Arrange Shrimp: Spread the shrimp mixture evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking.
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Bake the Shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough if exposed to heat for too long.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Cooking Tips
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Shrimp Selection: When selecting shrimp, look for fresh, firm, and translucent shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking.
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Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Dill, cilantro, or chives can also complement the flavors beautifully.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or alongside a fresh green salad. For a more indulgent option, pair it with garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices.
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Make it a Meal: To transform this recipe into a full meal, consider adding roasted vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini to the baking sheet in the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations and Substitutions
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a delicious dairy-free version.
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Spice It Up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture for an extra kick.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with hearty vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms for a plant-based twist on this recipe.
Enhance Your Culinary Skills
For those who want to further explore seafood cooking, consider reading articles on How to Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time and The Best Herbs for Seafood. These resources will deepen your understanding of shrimp preparation and the delicate art of flavor pairing.
Final Thoughts
Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fresh Herbs is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural flavors of shrimp while providing a refreshing zest from lemon and herbs. Its ease of preparation makes it a fantastic choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself or your loved ones to this delightful seafood dish!
Don’t forget to share your experience with this recipe and let your friends know about this delectable dish. Happy cooking!
