This Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp is a fun and easy dish packed with fresh flavors! Juicy shrimp are tossed in lemon juice and herbs, then baked to perfection alongside colorful veggies.
I love how quick it comes together—perfect for busy nights! Plus, one pan means less clean-up, and who doesn’t appreciate that? Grab your fork and dig in! 🍴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: For this dish, large shrimp work best. If you’re looking for a sustainable option, look for wild-caught shrimp. If you can’t find shrimp, feel free to substitute with chicken breast chunks, though cooking time may differ.
Lemon: Fresh lemons bring a bright flavor. If you’re out of lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but I always recommend fresh for the best taste. Lime could also work if you’re feeling adventurous!
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking, but you can substitute it with melted butter for a richer flavor. For a lighter option, avocado oil is also a nice choice and has its unique taste.
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs are awesome, but don’t hesitate to use fresh herbs if you have them! Fresh thyme or fresh parsley can add even more flavor. If you need a change, try using a mix of taco or Cajun seasoning for a different twist.
Asparagus: Asparagus pairs well here, but feel free to swap it for green beans or bell peppers for a colorful variation. Just adjust the cooking time based on what veggies you choose.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Don’t Overcook?
The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is timing. They cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them! Here are tips to ensure they are juicy and tender:
- Preheat your oven fully to help them cook evenly.
- Cook for just 8-10 minutes until they turn pink. If they curl up tightly, they might be overcooked.
- Remove from the oven as soon as they’re done, as they’ll continue to cook for a minute or two from the residual heat.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time, making your dish both delicious and impressive!
Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes around 10 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes for baking, totaling around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is essential for getting your shrimp and veggies cooked perfectly.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Next, arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on a large sheet pan. Drizzle half of the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything to coat the asparagus nicely.
3. Add Lemon Slices:
Take those beautiful lemon slices and scatter them evenly over and around the asparagus. This step adds such a fresh, zesty flavor!
4. Place the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to place the shrimp right on top of the asparagus and lemon slices. Make sure the shrimp are spread out evenly for even cooking.
5. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together to create a flavorful paste.
6. Coat the Shrimp:
Brush or drizzle this tasty mixture over the shrimp and lemon slices. This will ensure everything is well-coated in those delicious herbs and garlic!
7. Bake It:
Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as shrimp cook quickly! You’ll know they’re done when they’re pink and opaque, and the asparagus is tender.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, you can sprinkle some fresh parsley on top, if desired. Serve it hot from the oven and enjoy this vibrant, zesty dish!
Bon appétit! Your Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp is ready to impress your taste buds and those you share it with!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t your favorite or you don’t have it on hand, you can easily substitute with green beans, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetable you choose!
How Can I Adjust the Flavor of This Dish?
Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste! Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill can really enhance the flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or on the stovetop, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp again!
