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Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

This dish features tender shrimp cooked quickly in a hot pan, infused with bright lemon juice, garlic, and chili flakes. The final result is a vibrant, citrusy seafood sauté with a slightly crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined patted dry
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced about 1 tablespoon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 whole lemon, juiced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes or to taste
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to warm until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and start to develop a slight browning on the edges.
  3. Use tongs or a spatula to flip the shrimp, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fully opaque and cooked through.
  4. Push the shrimp to one side of the pan and add the minced garlic to the empty space, allowing it to sizzle for about 30 seconds—smelling the fragrant, sharp aroma.
  5. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice directly into the pan, letting it bubble up and loosen any browned bits from the bottom.
  6. Sprinkle the chili flakes evenly over the shrimp, then toss everything together to coat the shrimp in the flavorful, spicy oil mixture.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cook for another minute to let the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thicken.
  8. Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate, spooning over any remaining flavorful sauce from the pan.
  9. Garnish with additional lemon wedges or chopped herbs if desired, and serve immediately while hot and vibrant.

Notes

For extra depth, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of white wine while cooking the garlic.