This Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp is a quick and tasty meal that’s sure to impress! With fresh shrimp tossed in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, it’s as colorful as it is delicious.
You can whip this up in no time! Plus, everything cooks together, so the cleanup is a breeze. I love serving it with rice for a perfect combo. So simple and satisfying! 🍤🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the star here. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, the frozen variety works perfectly. Just thaw them in the fridge ahead of time. I often prefer tail-on shrimp for added presentation.
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is always best for flavor. I love squeezing some extra lemon juice before serving for an extra zing!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness when roasted. For a twist, you can swap it for shallots or use red onion for extra color. They caramelize beautifully, creating a lovely base.
Herbs: Dried herbs like parsley and oregano give this dish its flavor. If you have fresh herbs, use them! Fresh parsley is especially nice to sprinkle on top. I suggest always keeping a good stash of dried herbs for easy seasoning.
How Can I Ensure My Shrimp is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting shrimp just right is super important. Overcooking can make them rubbery. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking from the start.
- Cook shrimp for 8-10 minutes; they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Keep shrimp in a single layer for best results.
- For an extra touch, check them a minute early to avoid overcooking.
This way, you’ll enjoy tender, juicy shrimp every time!
Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 large lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For the Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This delicious meal comes together quickly! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation, and then an additional 8-10 minutes for cooking in the oven. All in all, you’re looking at about 20 minutes from prep to plate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lining a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly greasing it will help with easy cleanup later on!
2. Arrange the Base:
Next, take your sliced onions and lemon slices and arrange them evenly on the sheet pan. This will create a flavorful base for your shrimp to cook on.
3. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried parsley, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), salt, and black pepper. This herb mixture is going to add delicious flavor to your shrimp!
4. Toss the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the bowl and give them a good toss, ensuring that every piece is well-coated in that yummy herb and oil mixture.
5. Spread the Shrimp:
Once tossed, lay the shrimp evenly over the lemon and onion slices on the sheet pan. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
6. Bake It Up!
Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake the shrimp for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to be pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
7. Add Fresh Lemon Juice:
When the shrimp are done, remove the sheet pan from the oven, and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top. Then, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for an added burst of color and freshness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp is ready to serve! It’s best enjoyed immediately, and I recommend pairing it with some fluffy rice, a light salad, or crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices.
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a quicker thaw. Drain and pat dry before using to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, consider adding more or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. Feel free to customize it to your taste!
What Can I Substitute for the Onion?
If you’re not a fan of onions, you can replace them with bell peppers for sweetness or even zucchini for a veggie boost. Both will add great flavor to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the shrimp’s tenderness.