Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light dinner or an appetizer. The combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The fresh parsley and lemon juice add a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the savory flavors. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Large shrimp work best for this recipe as they hold up well under roasting and have a satisfying, meaty texture.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil helps to coat the shrimp and other ingredients, ensuring even cooking and adding a rich, subtle flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a robust, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and Parmesan.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese provides a savory, umami-rich crust that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds a Mediterranean flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the garlic and Parmesan.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will help the shrimp cook quickly and evenly, ensuring they stay tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
- Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t already prepped. Once cleaned, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the shrimp roast evenly and develop a nice, slightly crispy exterior.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined and the shrimp are evenly coated.
4. Coat the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss the shrimp until they are fully coated with the garlic Parmesan mixture. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated, as this will ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet. Ensure the shrimp are not overcrowded; this allows them to cook evenly and roast properly.
6. Roast the Shrimp:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the shrimp for 8-10 minutes. The shrimp should be pink and opaque, with the Parmesan cheese lightly browned and crispy. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
7. Finish with Lemon and Parsley:
- Once the shrimp are done roasting, remove them from the oven. Immediately squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the shrimp, and sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley. The lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the Parmesan and garlic.
8. Serve:
- Serve the Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp hot. They can be enjoyed on their own as an appetizer, or paired with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Pasta: Toss the roasted shrimp with your favorite pasta and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a simple garlic butter sauce for a delicious meal.
- With Salad: Serve the shrimp over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing, low-carb option.
- With Rice: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp pairs beautifully with a side of garlic butter rice or a simple lemon herb rice.
- As a Topping: Use the shrimp as a topping for bruschetta, crostini, or even a baked potato for a unique twist on classic dishes.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic Parmesan mixture.
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
- Butter Substitute: If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the olive oil with melted butter in the garlic Parmesan mixture.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for different flavor profiles.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s elegant enough for a dinner party, yet quick enough for a weeknight meal. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and fresh lemon juice is irresistible, making this a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger meal, these roasted shrimp are sure to impress. Enjoy this delightful dish with your family and friends!
