Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, restaurant-quality shrimp dish that will have your family begging for seconds! This Roasted Shrimp with Lemon Thyme recipe is a Mediterranean-inspired culinary masterpiece that combines the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and fresh thyme with perfectly caramelized, succulent shrimp. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a gourmet meal that looks like it came straight from a high-end restaurant kitchen, but can be easily prepared in the comfort of your own home.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup.
- Pat the shrimp completely dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp roast and caramelize instead of steaming.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and thyme leaves. Whisk together until well incorporated.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and gently toss, ensuring each shrimp is evenly coated with the lemon-thyme marinade.
- Season the marinated shrimp generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss again to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are just opaque in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow residual heat to finish cooking.
- Transfer the roasted shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
- Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- • The secret to perfectly roasted shrimp is ensuring they're completely dry before cooking. Use paper towels to remove all excess moisture, which prevents steaming and allows for beautiful caramelization. • Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each shrimp some breathing room to ensure even roasting and that gorgeous golden-pink color. • Watch the cooking time carefully! Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. 8-10 minutes is the sweet spot for tender, juicy results. • Fresh thyme makes a huge difference in flavor, but if you're in a pinch, dried thyme can work - just use about 1 teaspoon instead of the fresh tablespoon. • Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the shrimp at their most tender and flavorful peak. • For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade if you like a bit of heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg
