Why You’ll Love Lemon Basil Shrimp Recipe

Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic evenings
Uses minimal cookware—just one skillet—so cleanup is easy
The bright acidity of lemon paired with aromatic basil offers a fresh, vibrant flavor profile
Adaptable: serve it over rice, noodles, or a salad depending on what you have on hand
Great for shrimp lovers—if you enjoy seafood, this hits that savory-and-bright balance

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound shrimp, cleaned
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh basil (or substitute dried: 1 teaspoon dried = 1 tablespoon fresh)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the lemon slices and minced garlic, and cook for about 1–2 minutes until the lemon and garlic begin to soften.
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and the grey is gone.
Season with salt and pepper, then toss in the basil and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 3
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Cook time: ~6 minutes
Total time: ~26 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce when adding the basil
Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of cream or crème fraîche at the end and serve over pasta
Herb swap: Use parsley or cilantro instead of basil for a different herbal note
Grilled version: Thread the shrimp on skewers and grill with lemon-basil-garlic oil
Veggie boost: Toss in cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach during the last minute of cooking

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days
To reheat, warm a skillet with light oil, add the shrimp, and heat gently until warmed through—avoid overheating
Best enjoyed fresh, but still delicious as leftovers

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes—just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. Watch for excess moisture which can affect the sauté.

2. What size shrimp should I use?

Any size works, but larger shrimp may require a slightly longer cooking time. Cook until pink and opaque.

3. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes. Use 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh.

4. What should I serve this with?

Great with rice, pasta, quinoa, or a crisp green salad. Also pairs well with crusty bread.

5. How can I tell when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and the grey, translucent appearance disappears.

6. Can I prep ahead of time?

Yes. You can clean the shrimp and prep the lemon and garlic in advance, but cook right before serving for best results.

7. Is this recipe low-carb friendly?

Yes, the dish itself is low in carbohydrates. Serve with vegetables for a full low-carb meal.

8. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just check your butter and seasonings to be sure.

9. What if I don’t have butter?

You can use more olive oil, but the flavor will be slightly different without the richness butter adds.

10. Can I add other herbs or spices?

Absolutely. Try adding thyme, oregano, or smoked paprika for a different twist.

Conclusion

This Lemon Basil Shrimp recipe combines zesty lemon and aromatic basil with tender shrimp for a simple yet elegant meal. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a perfect go-to dish when you need something quick, flavorful, and satisfying.