Last updated on November 10th, 2025 at 06:33 pm
A quick and satisfying meal that delights the senses
Shrimp dinners can be both simple and spectacular. This easy shrimp dinner showcases tender shrimp that cook quickly while remaining juicy and flavorful. Tossed with fresh ingredients and a fragrant blend of spices, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and aromas. As the shrimp sizzle, they release a warm, savory scent that fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. The dish is vibrant with colors, from the pink of the shrimp to the greens of fresh herbs, making it a feast for the eyes as well.
The versatility of this recipe makes it a weeknight staple. You can vary the spices, add seasonal vegetables, or serve it over rice or pasta. Its depth of flavor belies the short time needed to prepare it, making it equally suitable for casual dinners or special occasions. Leftovers taste great too; the flavors deepen overnight, making it a treat for lunch the next day.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (≈450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools
This easy shrimp dinner utilizes basic kitchen tools, making the process straightforward and enjoyable. Having the right tools at hand will help ensure that everything runs smoothly.
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, ensuring not to burn it.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant.
- Sprinkle in the paprika, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices and let cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Drizzle with the lemon juice and zest before removing from the heat.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm over rice, couscous, or on its own as a light and refreshing meal.
Pro Tips
- To ensure shrimp remain tender, avoid overcooking them. They cook very quickly.
- Feel free to swap in other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or spinach based on what you have on hand.
- For added flavor, try marinating the shrimp briefly with olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
- This dish makes a great meal prep option; just store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.
Fresh Flavor, Made Simple
This easy shrimp dinner is a celebration of freshness and simplicity. The combination of sautéed vegetables and perfectly cooked shrimp creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also visually appealing. It embodies the idea that cooking can be both accessible and delicious. Enjoying a warm bowl of this dish at the end of a busy day feels like a small luxury, reinforcing that wholesome meals need not be complicated. This dish proves that gourmet comfort can be simple and satisfying.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 360 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Easy Shrimp Dinner
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, ensuring not to burn it.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant.
- Sprinkle in the paprika, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices and let cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Drizzle with the lemon juice and zest before removing from the heat.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm over rice, couscous, or on its own as a light and refreshing meal.
Notes
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