Pan fried herb shrimp is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with exquisite flavours. This dish is perfect for a quick weekday meal or a sophisticated starter for a dinner party. The beauty of pan-fried shrimp lies in its versatility and the way it showcases the fresh, delicate taste of the seafood, enhanced by a fragrant medley of herbs.
The foundation of this dish is high-quality shrimp. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used, though fresh is preferred for its superior taste and texture. When selecting shrimp, look for firm, translucent bodies without any discolouration or strong odour. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture during cooking.
Preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering maximum flavour. Begin by marinating the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and a blend of fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, and basil. These herbs not only impart a vibrant, aromatic flavour but also add a touch of freshness that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavours meld.
Cooking the shrimp is a quick process. Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, with a slight golden crust. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
The result is a dish that is light yet flavourful, with the shrimp’s natural sweetness enhanced by the citrusy, herbal marinade. Pan-fried shrimp with herbs can be served with a variety of sides, such as a simple green salad, crusty bread, or a light pasta. It also pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine or a crisp rosé.
In essence, pan-fried shrimp with herbs is a celebration of simplicity and fresh ingredients. It is a dish that brings out the best in seafood, offering a quick and delicious meal that is sure to impress.
Pan Fried Herb Shrimp
Pan-fried shrimp with herbs is a quick and flavourful dish that highlights the fresh, delicate taste of shrimp, enhanced by a fragrant medley of herbs. Ideal for both weekday meals and elegant dinners, this dish offers a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.
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Add to CollectionServings: 4 Portions
Calories: 211kcal
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp fresh, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil divided
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large lemon juice only
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh basil finely chopped
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 large lemon wedges
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, and basil.3 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic, 1 large lemon, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, 1 tbsp fresh basil
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.1 lb shrimp
- Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot but not smoking, add the shrimp in a single layer to the pan.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, with a slight golden crust.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste while cooking.salt, pepper
- Remove the shrimp from the pan and transfer to a serving platter.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and additional fresh herbs if desired.1 large lemon
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Enjoy this dish as a light main course or a sophisticated starter, accompanied by a green salad, crusty bread, or light pasta. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or a crisp rosé for a perfect meal.
Nutrition
Calories: 211kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 183mg | Sodium: 138mg | Potassium: 406mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 290IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 1mg