Peppery Garlic Shrimp
A quick and flavorful seafood dish packed with bold garlic aroma and a satisfying kick of freshly cracked black pepper. This Peppery Garlic Shrimp recipe comes together in under 20 minutes using simple pantry ingredients, perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or salad topper. Light yet protein-packed, it offers a punchy zest and bright freshness from lemon juice making it both indulgent and satisfying without heaviness.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Prep Your Shrimp: Start with peeled and deveined shrimp, pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from steaming the shrimp and help achieve a perfect sear.
- Heat the Pan: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, ensuring a hot pan for quick cooking and flavor sealing.
- Add Garlic and Pepper: Toss in minced garlic and freshly cracked black pepper, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp evenly across the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn opaque pink and curl slightly.
- Finish with Lemon and Seasoning: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, sprinkle with salt to taste, and toss together before removing from heat. Add chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or thoroughly thawed shrimp for better flavor and texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; give shrimp space to sear evenly and avoid steaming.
- Freshly cracked black pepper offers a more vibrant and robust spice than pre-ground.
- Prep garlic ahead of time to streamline cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat to quickly sear shrimp while keeping them juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (about 6-7 shrimp)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: shrimp recipe, garlic shrimp, quick shrimp dish, peppery shrimp, seafood appetizer, easy shrimp recipe