Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice

Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups jasmine rice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp chili flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Inspirations

I absolutely love making Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice, especially on busy nights when I crave something flavorful yet quick to prepare. The vibrant citrus and garlic create a delicious marinade that infuses the shrimp with incredible taste. The fluffy rice perfectly complements the shrimp and absorbs the sauce beautifully. With this recipe, I can whip up a stunning, restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes, making it a favorite for both my family and guests.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:09:36.393Z

When I first made Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice, I thought it would be a simple dish, but the flavor blend blew me away. I used fresh shrimp to add a tender bite and marinated it with lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of chili. The contrast of the tart lemon with the savory garlic elevates the entire meal. Using jasmine rice enriches the dish's aroma, making it even more irresistible!

This recipe not only pleases the palate but is incredibly versatile. You can switch up the veggies according to the season or your preferences, making it an easy go-to for any occasion. The simple searing method ensures that the shrimp remain juicy and full of flavor without overcooking.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners
Tender shrimp complemented by fluffy rice

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is a crucial element in this Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice recipe, as it infuses the shrimp with a bright, tangy flavor. Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes ensures that they absorb the garlic and citrus notes deeply. For a little extra zing, try adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade, which can enhance the overall flavor profile.

While chili flakes add a nice touch of heat to the dish, you can easily adjust their quantity based on your spice preference. If you prefer a milder version, consider using smoked paprika instead, which lends a gentle warmth without overwhelming the dish. Just remember, the longer you marinate, the more pronounced the flavors will be, so don’t rush this step!

Rice Techniques for Perfect Texture

Getting the rice just right is essential in this dish, as it serves as a base that soaks up the delicious sauce. Make sure to rinse the jasmine rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This extra step will ensure your rice ends up fluffy and not sticky, making for an ideal texture alongside the shrimp.

I recommend letting the cooked rice sit covered for about 5 minutes after taking it off the heat. This resting period allows it to steam and finish cooking, which results in a perfect fluffy texture. For added depth of flavor, you can cook the rice in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water, enhancing its taste to complement the shrimp.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to elevate your meal.

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups jasmine rice
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp chili flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal.

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of jasmine rice with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 15 minutes until the rice is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix 3 tbsp of olive oil, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and let marinate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the marinated shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and plate it. Top with the cooked shrimp and any remaining sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your meal with a side of your favorite vegetable!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of white wine to the pan after cooking the shrimp to deglaze and enhance the flavor of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Rice, consider serving it in individual bowls. This allows guests to appreciate the vibrant colors of the dish, especially when garnished with freshly chopped parsley. You might also include lemon wedges on the side for an additional burst of citrus flavor when served.

For a complete meal, pair the dish with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crisp greens will provide a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the shrimp and rice, rounding out your dining experience beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, it's best to warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture in the shrimp. You can add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out—this will help keep the dish tender and flavorful.

While it's possible to freeze the shrimp, rice can become mushy upon thawing. For the best results, freeze only the marinated shrimp and cook fresh rice when you're ready to enjoy it again. This way, you can recreate the dish's delightful texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice is great for its aroma, but you can also use basmati or long-grain rice.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach make great additions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.