If you are looking for a dish that bursts with bright, fresh flavors and comes together in a flash, this Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe is an absolute winner. It is a delightful celebration of tender jumbo shrimp infused with zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and vibrant herbs that make every bite sing. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for guests, this recipe brings restaurant-quality taste right into your kitchen with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet incredibly important for delivering the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your shrimp. Each item plays a star role, from the plump shrimp providing the tender base to the herbs and lemon juice that brighten the entire dish.
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp (16 to 20 count per pound): Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley (minced): Adds a touch of herbal brightness and a beautiful pop of green color.
- 1 large garlic clove (minced): Gives the shrimp a rich and savory depth that complements the herbs perfectly.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (Grey Poupon): Offers a subtle tang and creaminess that lifts the marinade.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds just a hint of gentle spice to keep things interesting.
- 1/8 cup plus 2 Tbsp olive oil: Keeps the shrimp juicy while giving them a beautiful sear in the pan.
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice: Brings lively citrus brightness that perfectly complements the garlic and herbs.
How to Make Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the shrimp
Begin by cleaning your shrimp thoroughly. Remove the shells and make a slit down the back to butterfly each shrimp. This technique not only cleans them well but also helps the marinade penetrate, making your shrimp juicy and flavorful. After prepping, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear beautifully.
Step 2: Make the marinade
Combine all the ingredients except the shrimp in a bowl. The interplay between garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and herbs creates a luscious marinade that will infuse the shrimp with irresistible flavor. Mixing these ingredients first ensures every shrimp gets evenly coated.
Step 3: Coat the shrimp
Immediately after preparing the marinade, add your shrimp and toss them well to ensure every piece is covered. Time is essential here—cook the shrimp within 10 minutes of coating to avoid the lemon juice starting to “cook” the shrimp, which may alter their texture.
Step 4: Heat the pan
Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Getting the pan hot enough is key for creating a nice sear on the shrimp that locks in flavors and keeps them tender.
Step 5: Cook the shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer and cook for about 1 1/2 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn opaque and curl slightly. Avoid overcooking since shrimp can become rubbery quickly; your perfectly cooked shrimp will be tender, juicy, and infused with garlic and herbs.
How to Serve Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh parsley or chopped chives over the cooked shrimp just before serving. A light zest of lemon or a few chili flakes also adds a lovely finishing touch, giving your dish an inviting look and an extra burst of flavor that complements the garlic and herbs beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe shines alongside simple sides like steamed jasmine rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that flavorful olive oil and herb sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the shrimp over a bed of garlic butter pasta or tucked into warm tortillas with avocado and fresh salsa for a vibrant shrimp taco. Creating small skewers with grilled lemon wedges offers both a pretty presentation and an extra dose of citrus to squeeze over right at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without losing quality or texture.
Freezing
While fresh shrimp is best, you can freeze cooked Garlic and Herb Shrimp for up to 1 month. Make sure to cool them completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container or bag to preserve taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave. Avoid overheating as shrimp can quickly become tough and rubbery, and you want to keep that tender, juicy impact that makes this Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as long as they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating. This helps the marinade cling better and ensures even cooking.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, a small amount of yellow mustard or a mild whole-grain mustard can work, though the flavor will be slightly different. You can also skip it, but just note it adds a nice tang to the dish.
Is it necessary to butterfly the shrimp?
Butterflying the shrimp helps them cook evenly and allows the marinade to infuse more deeply. While not absolutely required, it enhances both texture and flavor, so it’s highly recommended.
Can I add other herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh basil, thyme, or even cilantro can be added to customize the flavor. Just keep the herb quantity balanced so it doesn’t overshadow the garlic and lemon.
How long does the marinade last if not used immediately?
It’s best to use the marinade shrimp within 10 minutes. Lemon juice starts to “cook” the shrimp over time, which changes their texture from tender to slightly rubbery if left too long.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe is one of those dishes that effortlessly combines simplicity and sophistication. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting out, it’s easy to make, packed with bright flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Garlic and Herb Shrimp recipe features succulent jumbo shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of fresh parsley, garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and lemon juice, then quickly sautéed to perfection. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light, elegant meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp (16 to 20 count per pound), cleaned and butterflied
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, minced
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (Grey Poupon)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/8 cup plus 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Clean the shrimp by removing the shells and making a slit down the back to butterfly them. Rinse well and pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper cooking and marinade absorption.
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, combine fresh parsley, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, freshly ground black pepper, 1/8 cup olive oil, and lemon juice to create a flavorful herb marinade.
- Coat the shrimp: Add the cleaned shrimp to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. Make sure to cook the shrimp within 10 minutes to prevent the lemon juice from prematurely ‘cooking’ the shrimp.
- Heat the pan: Place a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Let the oil heat until shimmering but not smoking, ready for cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the marinated shrimp to the hot pan and cook for about 1 1/2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
Notes
- Using jumbo shrimp helps maintain a nice texture and presentation.
- Butterflying the shrimp allows the marinade to penetrate better and shortens cooking time.
- Do not marinate the shrimp for too long to avoid the lemon juice ‘cooking’ the shrimp, which can alter texture.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially the salt and pepper.
