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Peppery Garlic Shrimp

Peppery Garlic Shrimp

Peppery Garlic Shrimp is a quick, vibrant, and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed with fresh garlic, coarsely ground black pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. Ready in under 30 minutes, it delivers a smoky, spicy kick with a bright citrus finish, perfect for busy weeknights, appetizers, or as a topping for salads and pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz peeled and deveined fresh shrimp
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start with peeled and deveined shrimp, pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they sear nicely without steaming in the pan.
  2. Season Generously: Sprinkle both sides of the shrimp with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the pepper as it creates the signature punch of the dish.
  3. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add minced garlic. Cook for just about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp in a single layer and sauté for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, or you’ll lose that tender texture.
  5. Add Lemon and Parsley: Finish the dish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and tossing it with chopped parsley for a burst of brightness and color.

Notes

  • Pat shrimp dry to ensure perfect searing instead of steaming.
  • Use freshly ground black pepper for sharper, more intense flavor.
  • Don’t skip the lemon juice as it balances the richness and peppery heat wonderfully.
  • Cook shrimp quickly and attentively to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Use a hot pan to develop a nice sear and deepen the garlic flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppery garlic shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, spicy shrimp, garlic shrimp, easy shrimp dinner, weeknight dinner, gluten-free shrimp