Looking to whip up a delicious meal with minimal cleanup? The Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe has you covered! This tasty dish combines juicy shrimp, vibrant veggies, and zesty lemon in one simple pan. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it takes just minutes to prep and is packed with flavor. Let’s dive into how to make this easy, mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lemon, garlic, and smoked paprika creates a zesty and aromatic flavor profile.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything on a single sheet pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Customizable Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables to make this dish your own.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
The star of this dish is the shrimp. You want large, fresh shrimp for the best taste. They soak up all the great flavors from the marinade. Olive oil adds richness and helps cook the shrimp. Garlic brings a warm, savory flavor that makes this meal sing.
Seasonings and Flavorings
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. They give it a fresh, zesty kick. Smoked paprika adds depth with a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 small red onion, sliced
The vegetables add color and texture. Cherry tomatoes burst with juicy flavor. Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. Red onion gives a sharp taste that balances the shrimp. Together, they make this dish vibrant and healthy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheating the oven First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps the shrimp and veggies cook evenly. While the oven heats, you can get ready for the fun part.
Preparing the marinade In a mixing bowl, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, the zest and juice of 2 lemons, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Whisk this mixture well. It should smell fresh and zesty!
Marinating the Shrimp
Coating the shrimp Next, take 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Add these to your marinade. Toss them gently to coat each shrimp well. You want every piece to soak up that flavor.
Duration of marination Let the shrimp sit in the marinade for about 15 to 20 minutes. This short time helps the shrimp absorb the garlic and lemon taste. While they marinate, you can prepare the veggies.
Arranging Ingredients on the Sheet Pan
Vegetables placement Grab your sheet pan and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 sliced bell pepper, and 1 sliced red onion in a single layer. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over them and sprinkle some salt. Give the veggies a gentle toss to coat.
Shrimp arrangement Once the shrimp have marinated, place them on top of the vegetables in a single layer. Don't forget to pour any leftover marinade over both the shrimp and veggies. This extra flavor will make your dish even better!
Now you’re ready to bake!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- To ensure shrimp doneness, look for a pink color. They should curl slightly.
- For optimal vegetable roasting, cut your veggies evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate.
Flavor Enhancement
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro brightens the dish. Toss them in just before serving.
- Adjusting spice levels is easy. Add more red pepper flakes for heat or skip them for a milder taste.
Serving Suggestions
- For presentation, serve right from the sheet pan. It looks nice and is easy.
- Pair this dish with crusty bread or a light salad to balance the flavors.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb all the zesty flavors from the garlic and lemon.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, feel free to add more according to your taste.
- Even Cooking: Ensure that the shrimp and vegetables are arranged in a single layer on the sheet pan for even cooking and better caramelization.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don't skip the fresh parsley garnish; it adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap out shrimp for other proteins. Try chicken, scallops, or even firm tofu. Each option brings a new twist. You can also change the veggies. Use zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli for a fresh taste. Mix and match to fit your cravings.
Flavor Profiles
For an Asian-inspired version, add soy sauce and ginger. Sesame oil adds a rich layer too. Instead of lemon, use lime for a different zing. For a Mediterranean touch, try olives and feta cheese. Fresh oregano or thyme will also enhance the flavor.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, this recipe already fits the bill. Just make sure your seasonings are gluten-free. For a low-carb meal, skip the bell pepper and tomatoes. Use leafy greens like spinach or kale instead. These changes keep the dish light and healthy.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To keep your Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp fresh, store it properly. Allow the dish to cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it safe from bacteria. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. For the best taste, eat it within two days.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freezing works well. First, cool the shrimp and veggies completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This keeps the shrimp safe for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This keeps the shrimp tender.
Reheating
When it's time to reheat, the oven is best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp and veggies on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts and stir in between. This helps keep the shrimp juicy and the veggies crisp.
FAQs
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
You can tell shrimp are done by their color and texture. When they turn pink, they are cooked. The shrimp should also feel firm to the touch. If they look gray, they need more time. Overcooked shrimp can get tough, so watch closely.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water. After thawing, pat them dry before using in the recipe. This helps the shrimp marinate well.
What can I serve with Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
You can serve this dish with many sides. Here are some great options:
- Rice or quinoa for a filling base
- A fresh green salad for crunch
- Garlic bread to soak up the sauce
- Roasted asparagus for added veggies
This blog post covered how to make delicious sheet pan lemon garlic shrimp. We discussed the main ingredients, from shrimp to fresh veggies. I shared useful tips for perfect cooking and flavor boosts. You can get creative with swaps and variations to suit your taste.
In the end, this dish is easy and fun. You’ll impress anyone with this tasty meal, whether you’re a beginner or an expert in the kitchen. Enjoy your cooking and the great flavors that come with this recipe!
