Welcome to a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dining experience! Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe for Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also bursts with flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or craving a flavorful seafood dish, this recipe is a perfect choice. With its bright citrus notes, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, it’s a delightful harmony of flavors that’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
If you love shrimp and are looking for a recipe that’s both simple and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! The combination of lemon, pepper, and fresh dill perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making it a standout dish. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill recipe is a culinary masterpiece that comes together in just a few simple steps. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:
- Quick and Easy: With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes!
- Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon, bold black pepper, and aromatic garlic create a flavor profile that is both refreshing and savory. The addition of paprika adds a subtle smokiness that enhances every bite.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories yet high in nutrients. This recipe keeps it light, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad. The options are endless, allowing you to customize the dish according to your preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the shrimp combined with fresh dill and lemon wedges create an eye-catching plate that is sure to impress your guests.
With all these features, this Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill recipe is bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Now, let’s explore why you should try making this dish yourself!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Have you ever found yourself at a loss for what to cook for dinner? This recipe is your answer! Not only does it deliver on taste, but it also provides a plethora of benefits:
- Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh ingredients like lemon and dill ensures that you’re getting the best flavor possible. Fresh herbs can elevate any dish, and the dill in this recipe adds a unique touch that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Simple Steps: Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe breaks down the cooking process into straightforward steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this shrimp dish. It’s a great way to introduce seafood to little ones, as the flavors are mild yet exciting.
- Meal Prep Friendly: The shrimp marinate quickly, allowing you to prepare ahead of time. You can even double the recipe for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, you can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Want to add some heat? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper!
So, are you ready to bring this stunning dish to your kitchen? Let’s gather the ingredients and tools you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill.
Ingredients and Utensils Needed
Ingredients
For this delicious recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Utensils
To successfully prepare this dish, gather the following utensils:
- Large mixing bowl for marinating the shrimp.
- Skillet or frying pan for cooking the shrimp.
- Measuring spoons for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Knife and cutting board for chopping the garlic and dill.
- Spatula or tongs for flipping the shrimp while cooking.
- Serving platter or plates for serving the dish.
Now that you have all the ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process! Follow these detailed steps to create your own mouthwatering Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill.
Detailed Recipe Steps
Cooking this Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill dish is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for success:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and salt to taste. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade. This step is crucial as it infuses the shrimp with delicious flavors.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss gently to ensure each shrimp is well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 15–20 minutes at room temperature. This marination allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Heat the Skillet: While the shrimp is marinating, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. It’s essential to ensure the skillet is hot enough to sear the shrimp, giving them a nice color and flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes on the other side. The shrimp should be fully cooked, tender, and firm to the touch.
- Add Fresh Dill: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the fresh dill over the shrimp. Toss gently to combine. This final touch adds a burst of freshness and enhances the presentation of the dish.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon juice adds a refreshing touch when squeezed over the shrimp right before eating.
Cooking tips:
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Add more lemon juice for extra tang or more paprika for a smokier flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will provide the best flavor. If you have fresh dill on hand, it’s highly recommended! Alternatively, you can use dried dill if fresh is unavailable.
Tips and Variations
This Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit different dietary preferences and tastes. Here are some tips and variations to consider:
- Vegan Variation: Substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version. Marinate the tofu in the same mixture for a delicious alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional ingredients or sides are free from gluten.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of dill for a unique flavor profile.
- Sauce It Up: After cooking, toss the shrimp in a butter sauce for added richness. Simply melt butter in the same skillet and mix before serving.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many shrimp at once can lead to steaming rather than searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not Marinating Long Enough: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes lets the flavors develop fully. Don’t rush this step!
- Cooking at Too High a Heat: While you want a good sear, cooking at too high a heat can burn the garlic. Keep it at medium-high for optimal results.
Nutritional Values and Benefits
Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional values of this Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill dish:
- Calories: 220 per serving (based on 4 servings)
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
The nutritional benefits of this dish are significant:
- Lean Protein Source: Shrimp is a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Low in Calories: This dish is low in calories, making it suitable for those watching their weight or looking for a healthy meal option.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help improve heart health and boost immunity.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What goes well with Lemon Pepper Shrimp?
Lemon Pepper Shrimp pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices!
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to achieve the best texture and flavor.
How do I know when shrimp is cooked?
Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It should curl slightly, and the flesh will be firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking, as this can make them rubbery.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving for optimum freshness and flavor.
What can I substitute for fresh dill?
If fresh dill is not available, you can use dried dill (1 teaspoon) or substitute with fresh parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
In summary, this Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish. With its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
We invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below! Did you make any variations? Let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family or pin it for later reference on Pinterest!
Happy cooking!
Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Paprika, Garlic, and Fresh Dill
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, paprika, minced garlic, and salt. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss to ensure each shrimp is well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 15–20 minutes at room temperature.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes on the other side.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the fresh dill over the shrimp. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
