Add Shrimp Recipe

Prepare shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp sear better and release less water into the pan.

Season

In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until evenly coated. Add the lemon zest and toss gently to combine.

Heat pan

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Allow the butter to melt and foam but not burn; if it starts browning too fast, reduce heat to medium.

Cook shrimp

Add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer, leaving space between pieces so they sear rather than steam. Cook undisturbed for 1.5 to 2 minutes until the underside turns pink and slightly golden. Flip each shrimp and cook 1 to 1.5 more minutes until opaque and just cooked through (total cooking time ~3–4 minutes depending on size).

Add aromatics and finish

Push the shrimp to one side of the pan and add the minced garlic to the butter/olive oil in the pan. Cook garlic for 20–30 seconds until fragrant (do not let it burn). Stir garlic into the shrimp, squeeze the lemon juice over everything, and toss to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning with an extra pinch of salt or pepper if needed.

Rest and garnish

Remove the pan from heat. Let the shrimp rest 1–2 minutes (carryover heat finishes them). Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle chopped parsley and optional chives/green onions on top. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing.

Serve the shrimp over pasta, rice, salad, tacos, or alongside crusty bread. Drizzle any pan juices over the base (pasta or rice) for extra flavor.

If adding to another dish (pizza, grain bowl, or soup), cool slightly before incorporating to avoid overcooking other components.