Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice

Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups cooked rice; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

I absolutely love cooking up a vibrant Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Rice dish that's bursting with flavor. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic not only elevates the shrimp but also infuses the rice with a delightful taste. This dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of seafood and comforting rice keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:17:35.853Z

One of my favorite weeknight dinners is definitely Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Rice. I remember the first time I prepared it. I was short on time but wanted to create something delicious. The bright acidity of lemon paired with the pungent garlic creates a sauce that elevates simple shrimp and rice into something special.

What surprised me was the importance of using fresh ingredients. Using fresh lemons and good-quality shrimp truly makes a noticeable difference in flavor. I also recommend adjusting the garlic to your own taste—more garlic for those who love it, and a little less for a milder flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon gives a refreshing kick to each bite
Garlic adds depth, making the shrimp irresistibly fragrant
Quick cooking time means more time to enjoy your meal!
Versatile dish that pairs well with any vegetables you have on hand

The Role of Ingredients

The key to a successful Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Rice lies in the quality of your shrimp. Opt for large, fresh shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best flavor and texture. If you can find shrimp that are wild-caught, they often offer a superior taste compared to farmed varieties. When purchasing, look for a slight sheen on the shrimp’s surface—this indicates freshness.

Lemon is more than just a flavor enhancer in this dish; its acidity helps to brighten the overall profile. The combination of lemon juice and zest delivers not only a tart punch but also aromatic oils that make the dish incredibly fragrant. Remember to use freshly squeezed lemon juice whenever possible, as bottled juice can lack the vibrant notes that fresh juice provides.

Techniques for Perfect Cooking

Cooking shrimp requires careful attention to avoid overcooking. As soon as the shrimp turn pink and opaque, they are done—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes over medium heat. Keep an eye on them as they cook; with larger shrimp, you may need slightly more time, but be cautious not to exceed 5 minutes to maintain a tender texture. If you notice they’re curling tightly, that’s a sign they’re starting to overcook.

When adding the cooked rice, it’s important to work gently to prevent mashing the shrimp. Stirring too vigorously can break them apart, leading to an unattractive presentation. Mixing in the rice at a lower heat allows the grains to absorb the flavors from the shrimp and garlic without further cooking the shrimp.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started!

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cooked rice
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a flavorful dish.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, cooking until shrimp turn pink, around 3-4 minutes.

Combine with Rice

Once the shrimp is cooked, turn down the heat and add the cooked rice, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the flavors. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your vibrant dish!

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic for 15-30 minutes before cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish can be easily made ahead of time. The shrimp and rice can be cooked separately and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring that you add a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp and rice mixture in an airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove. You may need to add a bit of olive oil or broth to revive the flavors as it heats.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Rice is versatile enough to pair with various side dishes. Consider serving it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad to create a well-rounded meal. The lightness of the salad complements the zesty shrimp, balancing out the dish beautifully.

For a twist, try serving the shrimp over a bed of quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free option. The nutty flavors of quinoa or the light texture of cauliflower rice can enhance the dish while keeping it healthy and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.

→ Can I substitute the rice?

Absolutely! Quinoa or cauliflower rice would work well for a healthier alternative.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

You can reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them altogether if you prefer a milder dish.