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Keto Lemon Garlic Shrimp - Bright, Fast, and Flavor-Packed

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Large shrimp (1 to 1.25 pounds, peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
  • Fresh garlic (4–5 cloves, minced)
  • Lemon (1–2, for zest and juice)
  • Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons; use ghee if you’re dairy-sensitive)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
  • Sea salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Paprika (optional, 1/2 teaspoon for color and depth)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry. Use paper towels to remove surface moisture. Dry shrimp sear better and won’t steam in the pan.
  2. Season simply. Toss shrimp with 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the paprika if using. Set aside.
  3. Zest and juice the lemon. Zest one lemon first, then juice it. You’ll want about 2 tablespoons of juice. Keep them separate.
  4. Heat the pan. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter. When the butter foams, you’re ready.
  5. Sear the shrimp in batches. Add shrimp in a single layer without crowding. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining shrimp.
  6. Lower the heat for the garlic. Reduce to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant. Don’t brown the garlic.
  7. Deglaze with lemon juice. Pour in the lemon juice and scrape up any browned bits. Let it bubble for 20–30 seconds to slightly reduce.
  8. Return the shrimp. Add shrimp and any juices back to the pan. Toss to coat for 30–60 seconds. Sprinkle in the lemon zest and parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  9. Serve immediately. Plate with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Pair with cauliflower rice, sautéed asparagus, or zucchini noodles for a full keto meal.