Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice

Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 2 lemons; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Everyday Cozy Meals

I absolutely love making Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something delicious yet simple. The combination of bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and succulent shrimp paired with fluffy rice is utterly irresistible. It took me a few tries to get the flavors just right, but now I can whip it up in just 30 minutes! This dish has quickly become one of my family's favorites and always impresses guests when I serve it at dinner parties.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:13:36.233Z

When I first experimented with Lemon Garlic Shrimp, I was searching for a way to elevate the classic shrimp dish. By focusing on fresh, quality ingredients, I was able to create a vibrant meal that's bursting with flavor. The key is to let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the lemon and garlic to infuse their deliciousness.

Another tip I discovered is not to overcrowd the pan while cooking the shrimp. This ensures that they sear nicely, locking in that tender juiciness. Trust me, the smell alone will have everyone in the house gathering at the kitchen!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavors that awaken your palate
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Shrimp cooked to perfection, tender and juicy

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade for the shrimp is the key to achieving a burst of flavor in every bite. Using fresh lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps tenderize the shrimp. I recommend allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but for an even more pronounced flavor, you can extend this to 30 minutes. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acidity in the lemon can begin to cook the shrimp, giving them a tough texture.

When combining the ingredients for the marinade, ensure that the garlic is finely minced to release its aromatic oils. If you're sensitive to raw garlic's sharpness, you can lightly sauté it in the olive oil before adding it to the shrimp. This will mellow the flavor while still imparting that delicious garlic essence in the finished dish.

Cooking the Rice to Perfection

Jasmine rice is an excellent choice for this dish due to its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture. When cooking, it's important to bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the rice; this helps achieve the perfect texture. Once you cover and lower the heat, resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as this releases steam necessary for fluffy rice. After 18 minutes, check for doneness; the rice should be tender but not mushy.

For added flavor, consider swapping plain water for broth—chicken or vegetable broth works beautifully with the flavors of lemon and garlic. If you want to make this a bit heartier, you could easily add in some frozen peas or bell peppers during the final few minutes of cooking to incorporate more veggies.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, consider pairing Lemon Garlic Shrimp with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, which complement the dish nicely while adding vibrant color. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of fresh spinach for an added nutritional boost. This way, you not only enhance the meal's flavor profile but also increase its health benefits in an effortless way.

If you're looking to switch things up, this recipe can easily be adapted with different proteins or grains. Try substituting chicken for shrimp or using quinoa instead of rice for a more protein-rich base. Feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs, such as cilantro or dill, to give the dish your unique twist. Be creative and make it your own!

Ingredients

Shrimp Marinade

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

For the Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine shrimp, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, add jasmine rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes or until rice is tender. Remove from heat.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the marinated shrimp along with the marinade. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Serve

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and serve it on a plate. Top with the sautéed shrimp and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil right before serving. Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, I recommend quickly sautéing the shrimp in a pan over medium heat to maintain their tenderness, as microwaving can often make shrimp rubbery. Fluff the rice again to help it regain its texture before serving.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp and rice separately. The shrimp can be frozen for up to three months, while cooked rice can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. When ready to eat, simply thaw beforehand and reheat as described to enjoy the dish nearly as good as when it was first made.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have shrimp on hand, feel free to substitute chicken breast or tofu as your protein. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly; chicken may take slightly longer, while tofu will need just enough time to heat through. Using shrimp alternatives will still provide that delightful flavor profile from the marinade.

For a gluten-free or lower-carb version, you could replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice. Just sauté the cauliflower rice for about 5-7 minutes until it's tender. This swap not only retains the dish’s lemon garlic essence but also makes it a lighter option that aligns with various dietary preferences.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your shrimp turn out tough, it’s likely they were cooked for too long or marinated too long in citrus. For the best results, keep an eye on them while cooking; they should turn pink and opaque within just a few minutes. If the shrimp look rubbery, this indicates overcooking.

Another common issue is overly salty rice. If you accidentally over-season the water, try cooking another batch of rice without any salt and mix them together. This slight adjustment can help balance out the flavors without wasting the dish, particularly if you're looking to serve it for guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

→ What type of rice works best for this dish?

Jasmine rice is ideal for its fluffiness and fragrant flavor, but you can use basmati rice as an alternative.

→ How can I make this recipe spicy?

Add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or freshly chopped chili peppers while cooking.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance, just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to cook.