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 large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Everyday Dishes

I absolutely love making Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Rice for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. The bright flavors of fresh lemon and garlic complement the shrimp perfectly, creating a dish that feels both comforting and refreshing. It’s one of those recipes that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, making it ideal for busy evenings. Plus, the fluffy rice serves as a perfect base to soak up all that flavorful sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with taste. You won’t believe how easy and satisfying this meal is!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:35:36.385Z

When I first made Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Rice, I was amazed at how simple yet impressive it turned out. The combination of garlic sautéed in butter with a splash of lemon elevates the shrimp, making it incredibly aromatic. I learned that marinating the shrimp for just a few minutes before cooking allows the flavors to infuse beautifully.

One technique that really worked for me was cooking the rice in vegetable broth instead of water. This small detail adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory, buttery sauce of the shrimp. Trust me, this dish will become a go-to in your home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty and aromatic flavors that awaken your taste buds
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights
The perfect balance of comfort food and fresh ingredients

Ingredient Insights

The use of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp in this recipe ensures a quick cooking time and optimal flavor absorption. When selecting shrimp, look for firm and slightly translucent flesh for the best taste. If you're in a pinch, frozen shrimp can be a great alternative; just make sure to thaw them properly by placing them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.

Zesty lemon juice and fresh garlic are the standout flavors in this dish. The acidity from the lemon not only brightens the shrimp but also complements the buttery richness, creating a harmonious flavor balance. Always opt for fresh lemons when you can, as their juice and zest will elevate the dish, providing a more vibrant taste than pre-packaged options.

Perfecting Your Rice

To achieve fluffy jasmine rice, it’s crucial to start with a good toasting technique. By lightly toasting the rice in olive oil for a couple of minutes, you enhance its nutty flavor and create a subtle texture. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent any grains from sticking to the bottom of the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking or burnt rice.

The vegetable broth in this recipe not only cooks the rice but infuses it with flavor. If you're looking for a personal touch, consider adding herbs or spices to the broth, such as a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme. This can subtly change the rice's character and ensure that every component on your plate compliments the lemon garlic shrimp.

Serving and Storing Tips

For serving, I recommend plating the rice first and creating a small well in the center to hold the lemon garlic shrimp, allowing the sauce to soak into the rice. You can also garnish the dish with additional chopped parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color. This simple presentation elevates your meal and makes it more inviting.

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and rice separately to maintain texture. The shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, while the rice can be stored in an airtight container. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. This way, the shrimp will retain their juicy quality, and the rice will stay fluffy.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Garlic Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the jasmine rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the vegetable broth and salt, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, lemon juice, and zest, then season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until shrimp is pink and opaque. Stir in chopped parsley.

Serve

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and serve it on plates. Top with the lemon garlic shrimp and spoon the sauce over for added flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu if desired.

Flavor Variations

If you'd like to add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating a touch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp while cooking. This addition provides a gentle heat that complements the lemon and garlic beautifully. If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the spicy elements.

For a Mediterranean twist, you can include diced tomatoes and olives in the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking the shrimp. This not only enhances the dish's flavor profile but also adds a refreshing contrast to the buttery sauce.

Dietary Adjustments

If you're looking for a gluten-free version, rest assured this recipe fits that criterion as it stands. To make it dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with a high-quality olive oil or plant-based butter alternative, retaining the same cooking method and timing for the shrimp.

For a low-carb option, you could replace the rice with cauliflower rice, which cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. Just sauté the cauliflower rice in olive oil for about 5-7 minutes and then serve with the shrimp for a guilt-free alternative that still feels hearty.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve a good sear.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This shrimp dish pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad!

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best to serve this dish fresh, but you can prepare the rice and shrimp components separately and reheat them before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.