Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp

Name: Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely adore this Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp recipe! The vibrant flavors of fresh herbs combined with succulent shrimp create a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends. What I love most is how quickly this comes together, making it feel elegant without the fuss. I often serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-infused oil. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:13:28.282Z

I remember the first time I made Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp. I was hosting a small dinner party and wanted to impress my guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe was the perfect answer! The key is to use high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs; it really elevates the flavors. The aroma alone while cooking is enough to have everyone gathered around the kitchen.

One tip I learned is to let the shrimp marinate in the garlic and herb mixture for about 10 minutes before cooking. It not only enhances the flavor but also helps in cooking them just right—juicy and tender. Pairing it with a simple salad or grilled vegetables makes it a well-rounded meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant herb flavors that brighten the dish
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Versatile—perfect as an appetizer or main course
A crowd-pleaser that’s always a hit

Mastering the Marination Process

Marinating the shrimp is crucial for infusing flavor into the dish. Spend a full 10 minutes letting the shrimp soak up the garlic and herbs. I find that a spacious bowl allows me to toss the ingredients more easily, ensuring even coverage. If you’re short on time, a quick marination of 5 minutes will still yield great results, but don’t skip this step! It’s where the magic begins.

Consider using a ziploc bag for marinating, especially if you're making a larger batch. This will help the shrimp absorb the flavors more thoroughly without taking up too much space in the fridge. Once marinated, look for the shrimp to take on a slight sheen from the oil, indicating they are prepped and ready for cooking.

Cooking to Perfection

When cooking the shrimp, ensure your skillet is hot enough to achieve a sear. A medium-high heat works wonders, bringing out the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Aim for 2-3 minutes on each side; they are done when they turn pink with opaque centers. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on them. If your shrimp are larger than average, you might need to extend cooking time by a minute or so.

For additional depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the pan after flipping the shrimp. This will create a quick pan sauce that complements the garlic and herbs beautifully. Simply allow the wine to reduce slightly while the shrimp finish cooking, and you’ll have a luscious base that enhances the dish.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

This dish is versatile, making it perfect for many serving options. I love pairing it with al dente pasta tossed in olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan, but it also shines with crusty bread for mopping up that aromatic garlic oil. If you prefer something lighter, try serving over a fresh salad, with the shrimp nestled atop greens dressed in a lemon vinaigrette.

If you have leftovers (which are rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Gently reheating the shrimp in a skillet will help maintain its tender texture; just ensure not to overheat. For an easy lunch, toss the shrimp with cooked quinoa or on a bed of rice for a quick meal.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.

Finish with Lemon

Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp. Toss to coat.

Serve

Serve immediately with your choice of side or as an appetizer.

Enjoy your delicious Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp!

Pro Tips

To add more depth, you can also include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Additionally, try using different herbs based on your preference, such as dill or cilantro.

Herb Selection and Substitutions

For this recipe, fresh herbs are key to unlocking vibrant flavors, but if you're in a pinch, dried herbs can work too. A general rule of thumb is using a third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. Dried thyme or even a touch of oregano could be a delightful substitute for thyme, enhancing the dish's complexity without deviating too much from the original.

If you're looking for a variation, you can also experiment with different herb combinations. Dill or cilantro can provide a delightful twist, especially if you seek a refreshing profile. Just remember, if you're trying a new herb, start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your taste preferences.

A Note on Shrimp Quality

The quality of shrimp makes a significant difference in this recipe. Always opt for wild-caught shrimp when possible; they tend to have a firmer texture and richer flavor compared to farm-raised varieties. When purchasing shrimp, look for ones that smell like the ocean—not fishy—and have a firm, moist appearance.

If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before marinating. The best method is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or to place the sealed bag in a bowl of cold water for about an hour. Avoid thawing shrimp in warm water, as it can lead to uneven thawing and compromised texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, this recipe is easily scalable. For every additional pound of shrimp, simply double the amounts of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Just ensure you have a large enough skillet or consider cooking in batches to achieve that golden sear. Cooking in batches helps maintain even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can result in steaming rather than frying.

Conversely, if you wish to make a smaller portion, you can easily halve the ingredient amounts. However, be mindful of the marinating time; even halved, the shrimp need enough time to absorb those delicious flavors. This flexibility makes Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp suitable for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to an elegant gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve with Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it on crusty bread to soak up the extra garlic oil.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best to cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture and flavor, but you can marinate them in advance and cook when ready to serve.