Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Savory Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp! This dish bursts with fresh flavors from shrimp, lemon, and garlic. It’s easy to make and only needs one pan—perfect for busy nights. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the simple steps for this delightful dinner!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: This dish combines the bright zest of lemons with the robust flavor of garlic, making every bite refreshing and delicious.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and only 10-12 minutes to bake, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and shrimp create an eye-catching feast that’s sure to impress.
- Customizable Spice Level: You can easily adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level, making this dish suitable for everyone.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Zest and juice of 2 lemons
Additional Flavorings
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
Veggies to Add
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 small red onion, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
When I make this dish, I focus on fresh ingredients. The shrimp should be large and juicy. I prefer using peeled and deveined shrimp for a quick prep. The garlic gives a strong flavor, and lemon adds brightness.
Smoked paprika adds a unique depth. The red pepper flakes can bring heat. Adjust these based on your taste.
For veggies, I love cherry tomatoes for their sweetness. Red onions add a nice crunch, and red bell peppers bring color and flavor. Always season with salt and black pepper to enhance the taste.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end makes the dish look vibrant. This fresh touch makes the meal pop! Enjoy your cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Marinade
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a large bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, the juice and zest of 2 lemons, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. This mix is your marinade.
Marinating the Shrimp
– Add 1 lb of peeled and deveined large shrimp to the marinade. Toss well until each shrimp gets a coat.
– Let the shrimp sit for about 10 minutes. This wait lets the flavors soak in.
Arranging the Sheet Pan
– On a large sheet pan, lay out 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 small sliced red onion, and 1 sliced red bell pepper.
– Drizzle a little olive oil over the veggies. Toss them with salt and pepper to bring out their taste.
Baking the Dish
– Spread the marinated shrimp over the veggies on the sheet pan. Make sure they lay flat in one layer.
– Bake in the hot oven for 10-12 minutes. Stir the mix halfway through to cook evenly. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque when ready.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfectly Cook Shrimp
To cook shrimp just right, look for key signs. Cooked shrimp turn pink and opaque. They also curl into a C shape. Avoid shrimp that are gray or translucent. To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the time. Shrimp usually need 10 to 12 minutes in the oven. If you overcook them, they become tough and rubbery.
Enhancing Flavor
Want to amp up the taste? Try adding spices like cumin or coriander. Both spices bring warmth and depth. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Just sprinkle them on before serving for a burst of flavor. Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add color.
Presentation Tips
Serving this dish can be fun. Use a large platter to show off the shrimp and veggies. Arrange them in a colorful way to catch the eye. For garnishing, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This adds a nice touch of green. You can also serve it with lemon wedges for extra zest.
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for the freshest shrimp available; check for a mild ocean smell and firm texture for the best flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes, or omit them entirely for a family-friendly version.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while baking; they cook quickly and should be removed as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Garnish for Flavor: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness to the dish; consider adding lemon zest as an additional garnish for extra zing.
Variations
Different Proteins
You can switch shrimp for chicken or tofu. Both options work well. For chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces. Cook it for about 20-25 minutes. For tofu, use firm tofu, cut into cubes. Bake the tofu for 15-20 minutes. Adjust cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly done.
Adding More Veggies
Feel free to add more seasonal veggies. Think about zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli. These add color and flavor. You can also mix in grains like quinoa or pasta. This makes the meal more filling and satisfying.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, skip any soy sauce or gluten-rich ingredients. You can also use gluten-free grains. For a paleo-friendly meal, stick to fresh veggies and proteins. Avoid grains and legumes. Focus on whole foods for the best results.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your shrimp fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Let the dish cool first before sealing it. Store leftovers in the fridge. They are best eaten within two days. If you leave them too long, they might lose taste and texture.
Reheating Instructions
You can reheat in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet. Cover with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 5-7 minutes. In the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Heat in short bursts, about 30 seconds. Check often to avoid overcooking.
Freezing Options
To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date. It can stay frozen for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. For quicker thawing, place it in cold water for an hour.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook shrimp?
Shrimp cook quickly. They usually take about 10 to 12 minutes in the oven. Look for them to turn pink and opaque. Overcooking shrimp makes them tough, so keep an eye on them.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them first. Place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating. This way, they soak up the flavors well.
What is the best way to serve sheet pan lemon garlic shrimp?
I like to serve this dish hot from the oven. It pairs well with rice or crusty bread. You can also add a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a nice touch!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and veggies ahead of time. Marinate the shrimp and chop the veggies. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake them. This makes dinner easy on busy nights.
This blog post walks you through preparing a simple and delicious sheet pan lemon garlic shrimp. You learned about the key ingredients, easy steps to follow, and handy tips and tricks for perfect results. Remember, you can customize this dish by adding different proteins or veggies to match your taste. Enjoy this dish fresh or store leftovers for later. With this recipe, you’ll impress everyone and make a meal to remember! Happy cookin
