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A full protein-packed shrimp plate with various sides

Zesty Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa Plate

This Zesty Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa Plate features succulent shrimp marinated in garlic, lemon, and spices, then quickly seared and served over a bed of fluffy quinoa. It's a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for any weeknight.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large lemon juiced and zested
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup quinoa cooked according to package instructions
Optional Accompaniments
  • mixed greens
  • steamed asparagus
  • roasted broccoli

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, smoked paprika, oregano, and pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  2. While shrimp marinates, prepare your chosen base like quinoa according to package instructions or wash and dry mixed greens.
Cooking
  1. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary.
  2. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and cooked through, avoiding overcooking.
  3. Remove skillet from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp.
Serving
  1. Divide the cooked base among plates, top with seared shrimp, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the pan after cooking the shrimp to deglaze, then reduce slightly before adding the lemon juice. Serve immediately for best results.