This Easy Broiled Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the zest of lemon and the richness of garlic butter. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even tossed into a salad, these shrimp skewers are broiled to perfection, offering a delightful combination of charred exterior and juicy interior. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is both versatile and satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds extra-large shrimp (21/25 count), peeled and deveined, tails left on
• ¼ cup olive oil (for brushing skewers)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces
• 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
• ½ to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• ¼ teaspoon table salt
• ¼ cup minced fresh parsley leaves

Directions

1. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the shrimp onto metal skewers, ensuring each shrimp is pierced twice to secure it.
2. Preheat the Broiler: Adjust the oven rack to the highest position and preheat the broiler.
3. Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Sprinkle sugar on one side of each skewer.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine butter, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, garlic, and salt. Stir occasionally until the butter melts and the ingredients are well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Broil the Shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers on a foil-lined, rack-fitted baking sheet, sugar side up. Broil until lightly charred, about 4 minutes. Flip the skewers and broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the second side is pink and slightly translucent.
6. Finish Cooking in Sauce: Transfer the shrimp from the skewers into the skillet with the sauce. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and stir until the shrimp are opaque and coated in the sauce, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrients

• Calories: 237 kcal
• Protein: 16g
• Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0.3g
  • Sugar: 1g
• Cholesterol: 163mg
• Sodium: 749mg
• Potassium: 161mg
• Vitamin A: 586 IU
• Vitamin C: 5mg
• Calcium: 71mg
• Iron: 0.4mg

The Appeal of Shrimp in Cooking

Shrimp is one of the most popular seafood choices around the world, and for good reason. It is versatile, flavorful, and easy to cook. The natural sweetness of shrimp pairs wonderfully with bold ingredients like garlic, lemon, and spices, making it the perfect protein for a variety of dishes.

One of the benefits of cooking with shrimp is its quick cooking time. Whether you’re sautéing, grilling, or broiling, shrimp cooks in mere minutes, which makes it a go-to option for busy individuals who want a nutritious and tasty meal in a short amount of time. It’s also an excellent source of lean protein, making it a healthy addition to any diet. Shrimp is rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, all of which are beneficial for metabolism, heart health, and overall well-being.

Why Broiled Shrimp is the Perfect Cooking Method

Broiling is one of the best cooking methods for shrimp because it allows the natural flavors of the seafood to shine through while also imparting a delicious smoky flavor. The high heat of the broiler caramelizes the shrimp’s exterior, creating a crisp and slightly charred crust, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This method is especially useful when you want to avoid frying, which can add extra calories and fat to the dish. Broiling also cooks shrimp evenly, ensuring that every piece is perfectly done.

The broiler’s intense heat makes it a fantastic option for seafood that cooks quickly. This quick cooking time helps to lock in the shrimp’s natural moisture, preventing it from becoming dry or rubbery, which can happen if it’s overcooked. For these reasons, broiling is an ideal method to prepare shrimp dishes that have a bit of a charred or smoky flavor without needing to use an outdoor grill.

The Role of Garlic and Lemon in the Recipe

The flavor profile of this broiled shrimp recipe is highlighted by two star ingredients: garlic and lemon. Garlic, with its pungent aroma and savory taste, is known for enhancing and deepening the flavors of many dishes. In this recipe, garlic is paired with butter, creating a rich sauce that the shrimp will soak up, delivering a bold and savory finish. The garlic provides the perfect contrast to the freshness and acidity of the lemon.

Lemon, on the other hand, brings a refreshing citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter and garlic, creating a balance of flavors. Lemon juice adds a zesty tang that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and gives the dish an appealing, fresh taste. Lemon zest, often used as a garnish or added to the sauce, elevates the citrus flavor, giving the dish even more depth.

Together, garlic and lemon create a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and buttery flavors that make this dish a true standout. Whether the shrimp is served on its own or as part of a larger meal, these ingredients are the perfect way to bring out the best in the seafood.

Versatility of the Dish: Perfect for Various Occasions

The Easy Broiled Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways depending on your needs. One of the simplest ways to enjoy this dish is to serve it as an appetizer. Its bright flavors and tender texture make it an excellent starter for a meal.

If you’re looking to make it a main course, the broiled shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. It can be served alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bed of pasta or rice. For a light and refreshing option, you can serve the shrimp over a green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to enhance the citrus flavors. You could also prepare a seafood pasta, with the shrimp acting as the main protein element, complemented by a rich, garlicky sauce.

This recipe can also be used in meal prep. The shrimp holds up well in the refrigerator for a couple of days, making it a great option for preparing ahead of time for lunch or dinner. Simply store it in an airtight container and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

For those hosting a barbecue or dinner party, these shrimp can also be skewered and served on a platter, making it easy for guests to enjoy. The combination of shrimp, lemon, and garlic works beautifully with grilled vegetables, and it pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a light cocktail.

Health Benefits of Broiled Shrimp

Shrimp is not only delicious but also an incredibly healthy food choice. It is low in calories, high in protein, and provides essential nutrients that are important for maintaining a healthy body. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat healthily while still enjoying flavorful meals.

One of the standout health benefits of shrimp is its high protein content. Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps with muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. It also promotes feelings of fullness and helps maintain a healthy weight. Shrimp provides a good source of protein without being high in fat or carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for low-fat or low-carb diets.

Conclusion: A Simple Yet Elegant Dish

In conclusion, the Easy Broiled Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity and elegance. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful and impressive dish that is sure to be a hit at any meal. The smoky, savory, and tangy flavors of garlic and lemon elevate the natural sweetness of shrimp, creating a dish that is both delicious and nutritious.