One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice Recipe

Name: One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh or thawed shrimp; 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine); 1 medium lemon (zest and juice); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley and dill, chopped

Published: February 13, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice

Quick and Easy Preparation: With just one pan required, this recipe makes clean-up a breeze while still delivering on flavor. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table that satisfies everyone at home.

Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of succulent shrimp and aromatic herbs creates an explosion of taste with every bite. The zesty lemon adds brightness that complements the savory elements beautifully.

Versatile Meal Option: This dish is incredibly versatile; you can serve it as a main course or pair it with your favorite sides for an even heartier meal. It works well for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the shrimp and fiber from the rice, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s a great way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while indulging in fabulous flavors.

Ingredients for One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; if using frozen, make sure to thaw them before cooking for even flavor distribution.

Long Grain Rice: Opt for long grain rice for fluffy texture; basmati or jasmine varieties work wonderfully too.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Freshly grated zest enhances the lemony flavor, while juice adds acidity and brightness to the dish.

Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.

Chicken Broth: Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels without sacrificing flavor; it complements both rice and shrimp beautifully.

Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley and dill gives freshness; feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Prepare Your Pan: Start by heating some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure it’s hot enough so that your ingredients sizzle upon contact.

Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic into the pan; sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This step releases essential oils, enhancing overall flavor.

Add Shrimp and Seasonings: Toss in your shrimp along with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and herbs. Cook them until they turn pink—approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

Incorporate Rice: Stir in long grain rice ensuring each grain is coated with oil and seasonings. Let it toast slightly for 1-2 minutes before adding liquid.

Pour Chicken Broth and Simmer: Carefully pour in chicken broth and lemon juice; bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover your skillet tightly and cook for about 15-18 minutes until rice absorbs all liquid.

Fluff and Serve: Once cooked through, remove from heat and let it rest covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Transfer to plates and garnish with additional herbs if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Selecting Quality Shrimp: Always opt for fresh or sustainably sourced shrimp. Check for firmness and avoid any unpleasant smell which indicates poor quality.

Avoid Overcooking Rice: Keep an eye on the cooking time once you’ve added broth; overcooked rice can become mushy rather than fluffy.

Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to mix different herbs according to personal preference—basil or cilantro can add unique flavors that complement lemon beautifully.

Check Seasoning Levels: Taste your dish before serving; adjust salt or pepper as needed since everyone’s palate differs!

Feel free to experiment with vegetable additions like spinach or bell peppers during cooking—their colors enhance presentation while boosting nutritional value!

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed Asparagus

Serve alongside lightly steamed asparagus for a fresh and vibrant contrast. The crisp texture of the asparagus complements the tender shrimp and fluffy rice. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt to enhance the flavors. This combination not only looks appealing on the plate but also boosts your meal with nutrients and fiber.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a delightful addition that can soak up any leftover lemon herb sauce. The crunchy exterior and soft buttery center of the bread create a satisfying bite when paired with the savory shrimp and rice. Consider topping the bread with fresh parsley to add color and flavor, making it an irresistible side dish.

Mixed Green Salad

A simple mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette brings a refreshing element to your meal. Use ingredients like arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for added crunch and nutrition. The tangy dressing will echo the lemon notes in the One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice, creating a cohesive dining experience that’s light yet filling.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots make for a colorful side dish that enhances the meal’s visual appeal. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until they are tender and slightly caramelized. This adds depth to your plate while providing essential vitamins.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice?

To make this flavorful One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice, you’ll need shrimp, long-grain rice, fresh herbs like parsley or basil, lemon juice, garlic, chicken broth, and various spices. This recipe is straightforward and utilizes common kitchen staples, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels.

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp for your One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice. Just ensure you thaw them before cooking for even results. Thawed shrimp will absorb the lemon herb flavors better than those cooked from frozen, ensuring a delicious final dish.

How can I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers of your One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture as it warms up in either the microwave or stovetop.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or grains! Instead of rice, try quinoa or cauliflower rice for lower carbs. You could also add seasonal veggies like peas or spinach to boost nutrition without much effort. Tailoring this One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice allows you to enjoy new flavors each time.

Conclusion

In summary, One-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Rice is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The harmonious blend of shrimp infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs creates an enticing main dish that everyone will love. Pair it with sides like steamed asparagus or garlic bread to elevate your meal further. With simple storage solutions for leftovers and accommodating variations based on personal taste preferences, this dish fits seamlessly into any weeknight dinner plan. Don’t hesitate to explore different combinations; you’ll discover new favorites while enjoying this delightful recipe!

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📖 Recipe Card