Go Back
A plate of garlic butter shrimp recipes served with quinoa and roasted vegetables

Shrimp Recipes: 8 Quick & Healthy Dinners You'll Love

Discover 15 easy shrimp recipes for quick and delicious dinners! From pasta to stir-fries, find flavorful shrimp dishes to enjoy in under 30 minutes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro chopped
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice optional
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Shrimp
  • If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in a bowl of cold water for 10–15 minutes. Pat dry with a paper towel.
  • Season the Shrimp
  • In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
  • Cook the Shrimp
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Sauté Vegetables (Optional)
  • In the same skillet, add an extra drizzle of olive oil and sauté mixed vegetables for 3–5 minutes until tender.
  • Assemble and Serve
  • Return shrimp to the pan, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and toss everything together.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve over cooked quinoa, brown rice, or alongside roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Shrimp Selection: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well. If using frozen, thaw properly in cold water and pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
  • Cooking Tip: Shrimp cooks very quickly—overcooking will make them rubbery. Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and curl into a "C" shape.
  • Customization: Feel free to add different seasonings like Cajun spice, Italian herbs, or chili flakes to match your preferred flavor profile.
  • Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with whole grains like quinoa or brown rice, roasted vegetables, or as a filling for shrimp tacos.
  • Make-Ahead Option: Cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
  • Health Tip: For a lighter version, use minimal oil and serve shrimp with fresh greens or cauliflower rice instead of grains.
Keyword quick dinner, healthy seafood, easy shrimp recipe, low-carb, high-protein, summer meal, meal prep, gluten-free option
QR Code linking back to recipe