If youβre looking for a quick meal that bursts with flavor, youβve landed in the right spot! My Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp is easy to make and ready in just a few minutes. With fresh shrimp, zesty lemon, and garlic, this dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Letβs dive into the simple ingredients and steps to bring this delightful recipe to your table!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: This dish bursts with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic, making each bite refreshing and savory.
- Quick and Easy: With just a 30-minute total time from start to finish, itβs perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy Option: Shrimp is a great source of protein and low in calories, making this a nutritious meal choice.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or toss it into salads and pasta for an extra kick!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Flavor Enhancers
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Β½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
The main ingredients in this dish are the large shrimp, olive oil, and garlic. The shrimp give us a sweet and tender base. The olive oil adds a rich flavor and helps the shrimp cook evenly. Fresh garlic brings a nice punch to every bite.
For flavor enhancers, we have lemon zest, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. The lemon zest adds a bright, fresh note that wakes up the dish. Fresh lemon juice gives a tangy kick. Smoked paprika adds depth and warmth, making each nibble exciting.
In the seasoning section, we use oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Oregano brings an earthy taste, while red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. Salt and pepper are essential for balancing all the flavors.
Finally, we garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Lemon wedges give you the option to add more zing when serving. This dish is all about bright, bold flavors that come together easily.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
1. First, preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C). This step is crucial for even cooking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine these ingredients for the marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Β½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix everything well to create a flavorful marinade.
Marinating the Shrimp
1. Next, add the 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss them in the marinade until they are fully coated.
2. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them soak up all the tasty flavors.
Roasting the Shrimp
1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking.
2. Spread the marinated shrimp in a single layer on the sheet. This is key for even cooking.
3. Roast the shrimp in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Look for them to turn pink and opaque. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Final Touches
1. Once cooked, take the shrimp out of the oven. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice pop of color.
2. Serve the shrimp right away with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon adds a fresh zing that brightens the dish. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Shrimp
To choose fresh shrimp, look for a few key signs. The shrimp should smell like the sea, not like ammonia. Their shells should be firm and shiny. If you see ice crystals, it means they are not fresh. Always ask your fishmonger about their catch. For the best flavor, pick large shrimp that are peeled and deveined.
Marinating the shrimp is vital. It helps them soak up all the flavors. Aim for about 15 to 20 minutes. This short time allows the shrimp to absorb the lemon and garlic. If you marinate too long, the shrimp can turn mushy.
Adjusting Flavor Profiles
You can change the spice levels to fit your taste. If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. For a milder option, leave out the flakes altogether.
Consider using other herbs too. Fresh basil or cilantro can add a new twist. Try thyme or dill for a different flavor profile. Experiment and find what you enjoy most.
Cooking Tools and Equipment
A good baking sheet makes a big difference. Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any juices. Lining it with parchment paper helps with cleanup too.
For prep, you need a few basic utensils. A sharp knife is a must for chopping garlic and herbs. A mixing bowl is essential for the marinade. Donβt forget a pair of tongs to flip the shrimp while cooking. These tools will help you make the dish easier and more fun.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 20 minutes, or even up to 1 hour in the refrigerator, to enhance the flavors from the garlic and lemon.
- Perfect Shrimp Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they roast; they cook quickly. Remove them from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque for the best texture.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. For a milder dish, reduce the amount, or omit it entirely.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and fresh lemon juice instead of bottled variants, as this will elevate the dishβs overall flavor profile.

Variations
Different Proteins
You can swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works well and cooks similarly. Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Fish is another good option. Try salmon or white fish like cod. These proteins absorb the lemon and garlic flavors nicely. Adjust cooking times for chicken and fish. Chicken usually takes longer than shrimp.
Flavor Swaps
Switch up the citrus fruit for new tastes. Lime adds a fresh twist. Orange gives a sweet flavor. Each fruit changes the dishβs vibe. You can also explore different herbs and spices. Try fresh basil or dill for a lighter touch. For a bolder taste, use cumin or coriander. These swaps keep the dish exciting and fresh.
Cooking Methods
Roasting is great for a crispy finish. But you can also sautΓ© shrimp on the stove. Heat some oil in a pan and cook the shrimp for a quick meal. Grilling is another fun method. Grill the shrimp on skewers for a smoky flavor. Each method gives a unique texture and taste.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your lemon garlic roasted shrimp fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure the shrimp cool down before sealing. Store them in the fridge. They can last for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat without losing flavor, use a skillet. Heat over low heat and add a splash of olive oil. Stir gently until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Place shrimp in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short bursts. This keeps them juicy.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze lemon garlic roasted shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. For thawing, place the shrimp in the fridge overnight. You can also run them under cold water for a quick thaw.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook lemon garlic roasted shrimp?
It takes about 8-10 minutes to cook lemon garlic roasted shrimp. You need to roast them at 425Β°F (220Β°C). The shrimp will change from gray to pink when done. Make sure they are opaque. Stir halfway through cooking for even results.
Can I marinate shrimp overnight?
Yes, you can marinate shrimp overnight. It will make the shrimp taste even better. Just remember to cover the bowl tightly. A longer time helps the flavors soak in well. However, do not marinate longer than 24 hours, as the shrimp may get mushy.
What can I serve with lemon garlic roasted shrimp?
You can serve many sides with lemon garlic roasted shrimp. Here are some tasty options:
- Steamed rice
- Quinoa
- Garlic bread
- Salads
- Grilled vegetables
These sides will complement the shrimpβs flavors nicely.
Is it possible to make this dish without oil?
Yes, you can make this dish without oil. Instead of oil, use lemon juice or broth. This will help keep the shrimp moist. The flavor will still be zesty and bright. Just ensure you keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dryness.
In this post, we explored how to make lemon garlic roasted shrimp. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips. You learned the right way to marinate and roast shrimp for the best flavor. I shared variations for those wanting to try different proteins and flavors. Remember, fresh ingredients make a big difference. By following these steps, you can enjoy a tasty dish any time. Now, get in the kitchen and start cookin

Zesty Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp
IngredientsΒ Β
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
- for serving lemon wedges
InstructionsΒ
- Preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are well coated with the marinade. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the marinated shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.

