What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A dish that’s quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavors like this baked shrimp with lemon and parsley. Lemon juice and parsley add a bright twist to this homemade favorite. Save this idea for a delicious family dinner to make later.

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. Using everyday ingredients that are easily accessible, this recipe allows you to create a culinary masterpiece that is sure to impress both family and friends. The combination of succulent shrimp, the brightness of lemon, and the freshness of parsley, all presented in a pristine white bowl, makes for a dish that is not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing. This recipe is a testament to how creativity in the kitchen doesn’t have to be complicated, and with just a few ingredients, you can achieve a meal that is both satisfying and elegant.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The dish achieves a perfect balance of flavors, with the richness of the shrimp complemented by the acidity of the lemon and the earthiness of the parsley. Moreover, all the ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets, making it easy to prepare.
• Ease of preparation: The recipe requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it an ideal choice for a quick dinner or lunch. The simplicity of the steps involved means that even those new to cooking can achieve great results.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, the final dish looks and tastes impressive. The presentation in a white bowl adds a touch of sophistication, making it suitable for special occasions or when you want to make a good impression.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this dish include large shrimp, fresh lemons, fresh parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. The shrimp should be fresh and of good quality to ensure the best flavor and texture. Fresh lemons are essential for the brightness of flavor they add, and fresh parsley provides a burst of freshness. Garlic is used sparingly to add depth without overpowering the other flavors. Salt and pepper are used to season, and olive oil is the perfect choice for baking, adding a richness to the dish without overpowering the delicate flavor of the shrimp. Practical substitutions could include using frozen shrimp if fresh is not available, though the flavor and texture might slightly differ. Additionally, other herbs like dill or basil could be used in place of parsley for a different twist.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your ingredients. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat them dry with a paper towel, and season with salt and pepper. Chop the parsley and garlic, and slice the lemons into wedges.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, and the juice of one lemon. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for about 5 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. Arrange the marinated shrimp on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each shrimp to allow for even cooking. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the shrimp. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Step 4: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley over them. Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired and accompanied by lemon wedges on the side. The dish is best presented in a white bowl to accentuate the colors of the ingredients.

Handy Tips

• When buying shrimp, look for those that are firm to the touch and have a mild smell. Avoid shrimp with a strong smell or those that are soft and squishy.
• Do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp before serving.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the shrimp is 400°F (200°C), and the cooking time should be around 8-12 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. It’s essential to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The shrimp are done when they have turned pink and are no longer translucent. If you prefer your shrimp more well done, you can cook them for an additional 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to overcook.

Crunch Factor

This dish is meant to be tender, with the shrimp cooked just until they are opaque and pink. The parsley adds a fresh and slightly crunchy texture, balancing out the softness of the shrimp. To achieve the right texture, make sure not to overbake the shrimp, and use fresh parsley for the best flavor and crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To ensure the shrimp cook evenly, make sure they are all approximately the same size. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first and pat dry before marinating to remove excess moisture.
• For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil before arranging the shrimp.
• Consider marinating the shrimp for a longer period, up to 30 minutes, for more intense flavors, but be careful not to over-marinate, which can make the shrimp tough.

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 microwave until warmed through.
• It’s best to consume the dish fresh for the best flavor and texture. However, if you must store it, make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.
• Avoid freezing cooked shrimp as it can become tough and rubbery upon thawing. If you need to freeze, it’s better to freeze the raw shrimp before cooking.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a dinner party or as part of a meal train, you can package it in a decorative white bowl covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Add a sprinkle of parsley on top for a pop of color and a few lemon wedges on the side. You could also include a small bag of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Wrap the bowl in a decorative towel or place it in a gift basket filled with other gourmet goodies for a thoughtful and impressive gift.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some dried thyme for an earthy flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to parsley, you could top the shrimp with diced tomatoes, sliced olives, or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: For a different protein, you could use scallops or chicken breast, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Lemon can be swapped with lime for a slightly different citrus flavor.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your shrimp become tough or rubbery, it’s likely because they were overcooked. Adjust your cooking time and temperature for better results next time.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used as a substitute, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant. For lemon, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh is always preferred.
• Over/undercooking signs: Shrimp that are undercooked will be translucent and soft to the touch. Overcooked shrimp will be opaque, firm, and may even be slightly charred. Aim for the perfect pink color and firmness for the best results.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? It’s not recommended to freeze cooked shrimp as it can affect the texture. However, you can freeze raw shrimp before cooking.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance or preference.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, you can double or even triple the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just ensure you have enough space on your baking sheet for the shrimp to cook evenly.

Conclusion

Baked shrimp with lemon and parsley in a white bowl is a recipe that combines ease of preparation, accessibility of ingredients, and impressive results. With its light, refreshing flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for a variety of occasions, from a quick weeknight dinner to a special gathering. Feel free to experiment with the recipe, adding your own twists and flavors to make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the simplicity and elegance of baked shrimp with lemon and parsley.