One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Rice

If you’re craving a flavorful and easy meal that comes together in just one pot, this One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice recipe is perfect for you. It combines juicy shrimp with tender rice, all cooked in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s quick, convenient, and requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner.

This dish offers a delicious balance of flavors, with the tangy lemon elevating the shrimp’s natural sweetness and the garlic adding a depth of savory richness. It’s a one-pot wonder, which means you don’t have to juggle multiple pans or worry about dishes piling up in the sink. Everything cooks together, infusing each ingredient with the aromatic sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this meal is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The simple ingredients make it approachable for even novice cooks, while the burst of citrus and garlic will impress more seasoned chefs. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delectable dish that’s bound to become a staple in your culinary rotation.

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Ingredients

To prepare One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup chicken broth (or seafood broth for a richer flavor)
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Preparation

1. Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Stir in the rice, and toast it for about 1 minute, allowing it to soak up the remaining oil and garlic flavors. This step adds depth to the rice and ensures it absorbs the lemon garlic sauce later.
4. Add the chicken broth, water, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Once the rice is cooked, return the shrimp to the pan, stirring gently to combine. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just to reheat the shrimp and allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

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Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

1. Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly and can become tough if left in the pan for too long. Be sure to sauté the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque, then remove them from the pan to avoid overcooking.
2. Using too much liquid: While it’s important to use enough broth and water to cook the rice, adding too much can result in soggy rice. Stick to the measurements in the recipe to ensure the perfect texture.
3. Burning the garlic: Garlic burns easily and becomes bitter when overcooked. Always sauté it on medium heat for only 30 seconds to avoid this issue.
4. Not stirring the rice enough: While the rice is cooking, it’s essential to stir it once or twice to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. However, don’t stir too often, as it can break the rice and make it mushy.
5. Not seasoning enough: A dish like this relies on the perfect balance of flavors. Make sure to taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A bit more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can make a big difference.

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Ingredient Alternatives

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. If you want to switch things up or don’t have certain ingredients on hand, here are some tasty alternatives you can try:

• Shrimp: If you’re not a fan of shrimp or need a substitute, you can use chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try adding extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a hearty dish.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is the traditional choice for this recipe, but you can experiment with other types of rice. Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor, while jasmine rice can infuse the dish with a fragrant aroma. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can also be used for a lighter, gluten-free option.
• Broth: Chicken broth is the standard, but you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or seafood broth for an even richer taste. Alternatively, a simple mixture of water and bouillon cubes will work in a pinch.
• Herbs and Spices: If you don’t have dried oregano, try using basil, thyme, or Italian seasoning. For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Tips and Tricks

1. Sauté the Shrimp in Batches: If you’re cooking for a larger group or have a lot of shrimp, it’s best to sauté them in batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear, which will affect their texture. Cooking in smaller batches ensures that each shrimp gets a nice, golden sear.
2. Adjust the Lemon: If you like a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice or zest to the dish. Conversely, if you’re not a fan of too much citrus, you can reduce the lemon by half.
3. Make It Spicy: For those who love a bit of heat, adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will enhance the dish. Just a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference.
4. Let the Dish Rest: After cooking, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid and lets the flavors meld together, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.
5. Garnish with Extra Flavor: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can bring extra freshness to the dish. Additionally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds richness and a savory finish.

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Suggestions

This One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice dish can be easily customized to fit your preferences. Here are a few suggestions to make it even more versatile:

1. Add Vegetables: If you want to boost the nutrition of your meal, consider adding some vegetables. Peas, spinach, or asparagus work great with this dish and can be added during the last few minutes of cooking so they don’t overcook.
2. Pair with a Salad: For a well-rounded meal, serve this dish alongside a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon dressing complements the flavors of the shrimp and rice perfectly.
3. Serve with Garlic Bread: If you’re a fan of garlic bread, this would be a fantastic side to serve with your one-pot meal. The crispy bread will help scoop up the flavorful rice and shrimp, making each bite even more satisfying.
4. Transform Into a Casserole: If you want to turn this into a comforting casserole, transfer the cooked rice and shrimp mixture into a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Make It Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply substitute the regular rice with cauliflower rice or another gluten-free grain like quinoa or rice noodles.

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FAQ

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly fine! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or run cold water over them for a quicker method.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back the moisture.
3. Can I use other types of rice? Absolutely! While this recipe calls for long-grain white rice, you can substitute with brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa. Just be aware that different types of rice may require different cooking times and amounts of liquid.
4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free? This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you’re concerned about using butter or cheese for garnishing, simply omit them or opt for dairy-free alternatives.
5. Can I add wine to the dish for extra flavor? Yes, a splash of white wine can enhance the flavor of the dish. Add it after sautéing the garlic and before adding the liquid ingredients, allowing it to reduce slightly before proceeding with the recipe.

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Conclusion

The One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice recipe is a quick, simple, and incredibly flavorful meal that will become a regular part of your weeknight rotation. With the perfect balance of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and tender shrimp, this dish is not only a breeze to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser.

The convenience of a one-pot meal means less cleanup, and the versatility of the recipe allows you to tailor it to your preferences. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or experiment with substitutions, this dish will always deliver delicious results

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