Bright Lemon Garlic Baked Shrimp

🍤 Bright Lemon Garlic Baked Shrimp

🛒 Ingredients

  • 500g shrimp (peeled & deveined)
  • 3 tbsp butter (melted) (or olive oil for a healthier twist)
  • 3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt & black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Optional: pinch of chili flakes for heat

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the Oven

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
  • Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment

2. Arrange the Shrimp

  • Place shrimp in a single layer in the dish
  • Pat dry for better flavor absorption

3. Make the Sauce

  • In a bowl, mix:
    • melted butter (or olive oil)
    • garlic
    • lemon juice & zest
    • paprika
    • salt & pepper

4. Bake

  • Pour sauce evenly over shrimp
  • Bake for 10–12 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque

5. Finish & Serve

  • Sprinkle fresh parsley on top
  • Optional: squeeze extra lemon juice before serving

🍽️ Serving Ideas

  • Serve with:
    • Warm crusty bread (to soak the sauce)
    • Rice or quinoa
    • Mediterranean salad
    • Pasta for a quick shrimp scampi vibe

🔥 Pro Tips

  • Don’t overcook shrimp—they cook fast and turn rubbery if left too long
  • Use fresh lemon juice (not bottled) for best flavor
  • Add a sprinkle of parmesan before baking for a richer taste
  • Broil for last 1–2 minutes for a slightly golden finish

💚 Health Benefits

  • High in protein → great for muscle repair & energy
  • Low in calories → perfect for light meals
  • Rich in omega-3s → supports heart health
  • Garlic & lemon → boost immunity and digestion
  • Using olive oil instead of butter makes it Mediterranean diet-friendly

⚡ Quick Variations

  • Add cherry tomatoes for a juicy twist
  • Toss in spinach after baking for extra nutrients
  • Swap butter with olive oil for a lighter version

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