Shrimp is one of the easiest proteins to cook, and with this simple recipe, you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish on your table in just 15 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this dish is light, flavorful, and pairs well with rice, pasta, or tacos.
Let’s get cooking! 
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen) 2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for cooking) 3 cloves garlic, minced (adds deep flavor) 1 tsp paprika (adds a smoky taste) ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste) ½ tsp black pepper 1 tbsp lemon juice (adds brightness) ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little spice)
For Garnish & Serving:
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped 
Lemon wedges 
Cooked rice, pasta, tacos, or salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 10 minutes. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to help them cook evenly. In a bowl, season the shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat butter or olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and stir to combine.
Step 3: Finish with Lemon & Garnish
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for extra brightness. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Remove from heat and serve immediately!
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Shrimp
This easy shrimp recipe is versatile! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
With Rice 
– Serve the shrimp over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a simple meal. With Pasta 
– Toss with buttered noodles or add it to a garlic pasta dish. In Tacos 
– Place the shrimp in warm tortillas with avocado, slaw, and salsa. As a Salad Protein 
– Add shrimp to a Caesar or garden salad for a protein boost. With Vegetables 
– Serve with roasted or sautéed vegetables for a low-carb option.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Every Time
Don’t overcook! – Shrimp cook very quickly. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Use fresh or frozen shrimp – If using frozen, thaw before cooking for the best texture. Add more spice – If you love heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a richer flavor – Try adding a splash of white wine or soy sauce while cooking. Want a creamy sauce? – Add a bit of heavy cream or parmesan for a creamy garlic shrimp version!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes! If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them at the end and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Marinate the shrimp in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes in the fridge before cooking for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts: A Quick & Tasty Shrimp Recipe! 
This easy shrimp recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort, you get a flavorful dish that pairs well with almost anything.
Ready to try this recipe? Let me know how you serve it! 