Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Herb Shrimp recipe is quick to prepare, light yet satisfying, and bursting with zesty herb flavor. It’s versatile enough to serve over pasta, rice, salad, or on its own. Whether you’re looking for a simple appetizer, a healthy dinner, or a protein-rich addition to any meal, this dish delivers. Plus, it’s ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan
Directions
- In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes or Parmesan before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 4 people. Total time is approximately 15–20 minutes, including 5 minutes of prep and 10–15 minutes of cooking time.
Variations
- Spicy Italian Shrimp: Add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili for heat.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Use a mix of olive oil and melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Baked Version: Arrange shrimp on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Grilled Shrimp: Skewer the shrimp and grill for a smoky twist.
- Lemon Basil Shrimp: Substitute Italian seasoning with fresh basil and lemon zest.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, being careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking for best results.
What kind of shrimp should I buy?
Look for medium or large raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs to replace dried.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits well into keto or paleo diets.
Can I marinate the shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, but limit marinating to 30 minutes to avoid the shrimp becoming mushy.
What should I serve with Italian Herb Shrimp?
It pairs well with pasta, risotto, roasted veggies, salad, or crusty bread.
Can I make this in the oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes until shrimp are cooked through.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply avoid adding Parmesan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooking makes them tough.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, just cook in batches or use a larger skillet to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
Italian Herb Shrimp is a simple, delicious recipe that brings bold flavor and healthy ingredients together in a flash. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for its taste, ease, and versatility. Give it a try and enjoy a touch of Italy in every bite.
PrintItalian Herb Shrimp
Italian Herb Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in olive oil with garlic, Italian herbs, and a splash of lemon. Perfect as a main course or appetizer, it’s ready in under 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes or Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Use thawed and patted-dry frozen shrimp for convenience.
- Do not overcook shrimp—remove from heat once they turn pink and curl.
- Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried; triple the amount for best flavor.
- Serve over pasta, rice, salad, or with crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 180mg