What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A simple yet flavorful dish like this baked shrimp with lemon and parsley, made easy with a quick homemade recipe, save this idea for a delicious family favorite to try soon

baked shrimp with lemon and parsley in a white bowl

Introduction

Baked shrimp with lemon and parsley is a dish that embodies the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and visual appeal. It’s a recipe that can be prepared with ease, using everyday ingredients that are readily available in most kitchens. The combination of succulent shrimp, the brightness of lemon, and the freshness of parsley creates a culinary experience that is both refreshing and satisfying. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or as a centerpiece for a more elaborate meal. Its beauty lies not only in its taste but also in its presentation, making it a perfect candidate for special occasions or casual gatherings where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The recipe strikes a perfect balance between the richness of the shrimp, the acidity of the lemon, and the earthiness of the parsley, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of palates.
• Ease of preparation: The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward preparation method make this dish incredibly easy to prepare, even for those who are new to cooking.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the dish presents beautifully, especially when served in a white bowl, which allows the colors of the shrimp and parsley to pop, making it an impressive dish to serve to guests with minimal effort.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this dish include fresh shrimp, lemons, fresh parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. For the shrimp, it’s best to use fresh, large shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. Lemons provide the necessary acidity and can be substituted with lime if preferred, though lemon is traditional. Fresh parsley is crucial for its fresh flavor and aesthetic appeal; however, dried parsley can be used in a pinch, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Garlic adds depth without overpowering the other flavors, and salt, pepper, and olive oil are used to enhance and bring the dish together. Practical substitutions can be made based on personal preference and dietary needs, but these core ingredients provide the foundation of the dish.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your shrimp by rinsing them under cold water, patting them dry with a paper towel, and seasoning them with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the seasoned shrimp to the bowl and toss them in the marinade to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the shrimp.
3. Step 3: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each shrimp to allow for even cooking. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp.
4. Step 4: Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your shrimp, so keep an eye on them after 8 minutes and remove them from the oven when they are done. Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired, and accompanied by lemon wedges on the side.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. They should be opaque and pink when fully cooked.
• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the shrimp and parsley, as they are the stars of the dish.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to ensure they have enough room.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the shrimp is 400°F (200°C), and the cooking time should be between 8-12 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the shrimp. It’s crucial to keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time, as the transition from undercooked to overcooked can happen quickly. Signs of doneness include the shrimp turning pink and becoming opaque, and they should feel firm to the touch but still yield to pressure.

Crunch Factor

This dish is meant to be tender, with the shrimp cooked until they are just done. The parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note but does not contribute a crunchy texture. If you’re looking to add a crunchy element, consider serving the shrimp with a side of toasted bread or a simple green salad with crispy elements like nuts or seeds.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an added layer of flavor, drizzle the shrimp with a bit of white wine or chicken broth before baking.
• Use a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan to bake the shrimp, as these retain heat well and can be used to serve the dish straight from the oven.
• Prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage Tips

• Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• It’s best to consume the shrimp fresh, but if you must store them, make sure they are cooled completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.
• Avoid freezing cooked shrimp, as the texture can become unpleasantly tough. However, you can freeze raw shrimp to use in this recipe at a later time.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, it’s best to package the ingredients separately and allow the recipient to prepare it fresh. You could put together a gift basket with fresh shrimp, lemons, parsley, garlic, and a bottle of olive oil, along with the recipe and any desired cooking instructions. Alternatively, prepare the dish, let it cool, and then package it in a decorative, airtight container that can be reheated by the recipient.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or some dried herbs like thyme or oregano for added depth.
• Creative toppings: Serve the shrimp with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Ingredient swaps: Swap the shrimp for other seafood like scallops or mussels, or use chicken or tofu for a non-seafood version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the shrimp become tough, it’s likely they were overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time or checking on them more frequently towards the end of the cooking period.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will not be as vibrant. Similarly, lime juice can replace lemon juice in a pinch.
• Over/undercooking signs: Undercooked shrimp will be translucent and soft, while overcooked shrimp will be opaque, firm, and may even be slightly charred.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? It’s not recommended to freeze cooked shrimp, as the texture can become unappealing. However, raw shrimp can be frozen and thawed when you’re ready to use them.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to serve a larger crowd. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as a larger quantity of shrimp may take a bit longer to cook through.

Conclusion

Baked shrimp with lemon and parsley in a white bowl is a versatile and delicious dish that can elevate any meal. With its simple preparation, beautiful presentation, and flavorful outcome, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make the dish your own, and consider sharing it with friends and family as a thoughtful gift. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the world of cooking, this recipe is a great place to start, offering a perfect balance of ease, creativity, and delicious results.