Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice

Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon butter; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Table Classics

I absolutely love creating dishes that are both simple and bursting with flavor, and Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice fits the bill perfectly! The combination of juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic over fluffy rice is not only satisfying but also a dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It’s become one of my go-to recipes for weeknight dinners, and I can't wait to share it with you. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a delightful centerpiece at any table!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:45:36.265Z

Preparing Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice transported me to a sunny coastal kitchen with every bite. I remember the first time I made it, and how the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter transformed my kitchen into a haven of flavor. I used fresh shrimp for the best taste, and paired it with freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance the seafood's natural sweetness.

During my next attempt, I decided to elevate the dish further by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, which created a mouthwatering contrast with the lemony zest. Trust me when I say that it’s a recipe that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor that elevates the shrimp
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy weeknights
A complete meal combining protein and carbs in one delicious dish

Cooking the Perfect Rice

Cooking the rice properly is essential to achieving a fluffy texture that complements the shrimp. Using broth instead of water adds depth of flavor, and watching for the rice to absorb all the liquid is key. If you notice that the rice is tender but there’s still some liquid, continue cooking it over low heat without the lid for a few additional minutes. This allows any excess moisture to evaporate and ensures the rice doesn’t become mushy.

Once the rice is cooked, letting it sit covered for an additional five minutes before fluffing it with a fork can enhance its texture. This resting period allows the steam to further soften the grains and gives them a more inviting appearance. A hint of salt in the cooking water can also elevate the overall dish, making sure that both the rice and the shrimp are well-seasoned.

Key Techniques for Sautéing Shrimp

The technique for sautéing shrimp is all about timing and heat. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the olive oil; this helps to prevent the shrimp from sticking. Between medium to medium-high heat works best. You want to see the oil shimmer before introducing the minced garlic. Sautéing the garlic until fragrant but not browned is critical, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste that overshadows the freshness of the shrimp.

When adding the shrimp, tossing them in a single layer allows for even cooking. Watch for color changes; shrimp will turn from gray to a lovely pink as they cook. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can trap steam and lead to unevenly cooked shrimp. If you have more shrimp than your pan can handle, cook them in batches to achieve that perfect, golden exterior.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
Salt to taste

Serve the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra color!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, a pinch of salt, and butter. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the shrimp, lemon juice, and zest, cooking until the shrimp turns pink, approximately 3-5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve the shrimp mixture over the cooked rice and garnish with additional lemon zest or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delightful meal!

Pro Tips

For a more substantial meal, consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to the rice for a vibrant touch.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. The vibrant flavors of the shrimp pair beautifully with green beans, asparagus, or a zesty coleslaw, providing both color and texture. A drizzle of additional lemon juice over the top at serving can enhance the dish’s brightness and make it even more refreshing.

You can also play with presentations by serving the rice in bowls and topping each with a generous helping of shrimp. Garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can add a pop of color and crunch. This will not only beautify the dish but also entice your guests with a more restaurant-style experience at home.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe can be an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can cook the rice a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, just reheat it in the microwave or over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to revive its texture. As for the shrimp, they are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the garlic and lemon mixture ahead of time to save on prep during a busy weeknight.

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and rice separately to prevent the rice from becoming soggy. Place them in airtight containers, and they will stay fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator. For reheating, warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to perk up the flavors, while refreshing the rice as previously mentioned for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them fully before cooking.

→ What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Long-grain rice works best for a fluffy texture, but you can substitute with any rice you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and rice ahead and reheat them shortly before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes! You can replace the shrimp with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms.