Introduction
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and creamy lemon sauce. This meal is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors that are sure to impress. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Heavy cream: 1 cup
Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper: to taste
Chopped parsley: for garnish
Prep Time
Prep time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without the hassle.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 15 minutes, which brings the total time to roughly 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or entertaining guests. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this creamy lemon Parmesan shrimp that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp if not already done. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip them and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Add Flour
Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk it together with the garlic for about one minute to create a roux.
Incorporate the Broth
Gradually add chicken broth while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add Cream and Parmesan
Pour in the heavy cream and add grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
Season the Sauce
Add lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring well to coat them in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat thoroughly.
Serve
Serve the creamy lemon Parmesan shrimp over pasta, rice, or your preferred side. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Storage Information
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Adjusting Thickness
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique where food is cooked quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This method is great for the shrimp as it allows them to sear and lock in their flavors while achieving a nice texture.
De-glazing
De-glazing involves adding a liquid to a hot pan to loosen browned bits of food stuck to the bottom. This adds depth of flavor to sauces, making it an essential technique when creating the creamy lemon Parmesan sauce.
Emulsification
Emulsification is the process of combining two ingredients that normally do not mix, such as oil and water-based liquids. This technique is used when whisking the butter and cream into the sauce to create a smooth, cohesive blend.
Finishing
Finishing refers to the final touches added to a dish before serving. This can include adjusting seasoning or adding fresh elements like herbs. In this recipe, finishing touches enhance the overall presentation and flavor of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sauté properly.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile.
Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Yes, to make this dish dairy-free, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor instead of Parmesan.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water, or let it reduce on low heat until it reaches your desired consistency.
What side dishes pair well with creamy lemon Parmesan shrimp?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad, as they complement the rich and creamy sauce beautifully.
Conclusion
This creamy lemon parmesan shrimp recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that is both simple to prepare and indulgently tasty. With its tangy lemon and rich parmesan, it perfectly complements the succulent shrimp, making it a wonderful dish for any occasion. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Combine shrimp with garlic butter and toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken
Use the same lemon and garlic flavor profile with roasted chicken for a juicy and aromatic dish.
Parmesan Crusted Broccoli
Pair the creamy lemon parmesan shrimp with this delicious vegetable side, adding a crunchy texture to your meal.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Create a creamy chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, reflecting the same richness and flavor as the shrimp recipe.
Zucchini Noodles with Shrimp
For a lighter option, serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles, tossed with a lemon sauce for a refreshing twist.
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Round out your meal with a citrusy quinoa salad featuring fresh herbs, ideal for balancing the richness of the shrimp.