Light Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp

Featured in: Simple One-Pot Cozy Meals

This dish features succulent shrimp tossed in a zesty lemon herb marinade, sautéed with garlic and finished in a bright, flavorful sauce. Fresh parsley, dill, and basil add fragrant herb notes while the lemon juice brings a lively citrus brightness that complements whole grain pasta, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice. Garlic, olive oil, and butter create a rich yet light base, and optional toppings like Greek yogurt and fresh fruit add a refreshing balance. Ready in 25 minutes, it’s an easy Mediterranean-inspired meal packed with protein and vibrant flavor.

Updated on Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:32:00 GMT
Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, beautifully plated, with glistening shrimp and a vibrant, citrus sauce. Pin It
Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, beautifully plated, with glistening shrimp and a vibrant, citrus sauce. | sweetcairn.com

A vibrant, zesty shrimp scampi featuring fresh herbs and a tangy lemon sauce, served in light bowls for a nourishing, citrus-boosted weeknight dinner.

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household for a light but satisfying dinner option with a fresh lemony kick.

Ingredients

  • Shrimp & Marinade: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp peeled and deveined, 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, zest of 1 lemon, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon Herb Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 cloves garlic thinly sliced, 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp), 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped, 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped, 1 tbsp fresh basil chopped, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • To Serve: 4 cups cooked whole grain pasta zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, lemon wedges, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional for topping), 1 cup fresh fruit (e.g. berries or orange segments for a light plate)

Instructions

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Step 1:
In a medium bowl toss shrimp with 2 tbsp olive oil minced garlic salt pepper lemon zest and 1 tbsp lemon juice Marinate for 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients
Step 2:
Heat 2 tbsp butter and 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat Add sliced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant
Step 3:
Add marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer Cook for 1 2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and set aside
Step 4:
Pour in broth and juice of 1 lemon Scrape up any browned bits and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly
Step 5:
Add parsley dill basil and red pepper flakes (if using) Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat evenly Cook for 1 more minute then remove from heat
Step 6:
Serve shrimp and sauce over your choice of pasta zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice
Step 7:
Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing touch Garnish with extra lemon wedges
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Blend smoothies, sauces, and shakes quickly for easy breakfasts, snacks, and meal prep.
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| sweetcairn.com

Nothing brings my family together like sharing this zesty shrimp scampi fresh off the stove with bright lemon and herb aromas.

Required Tools

Large skillet Mixing bowls Slotted spoon Knife and cutting board Citrus zester

Allergen Information

Contains: Shellfish Dairy (if using butter or yogurt) To make dairy-free use only olive oil and omit Greek yogurt Always check labels for hidden allergens

Nutritional Information

Calories 330 Total Fat 18 g Carbohydrates 13 g Protein 30 g (per serving without yogurt or fruit)

A close-up of steaming Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, showcasing fresh herbs and pasta in serving bowls. Pin It
A close-up of steaming Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, showcasing fresh herbs and pasta in serving bowls. | sweetcairn.com
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This shrimp scampi is perfect for a quick weeknight meal with bright flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Recipe FAQs

What herbs are used in the lemon herb sauce?

Fresh parsley, dill, and basil are combined to create a fragrant and vibrant herb sauce.

Can I substitute the pasta with vegetables?

Yes, zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice make excellent low-carb alternatives to traditional pasta.

How long does the shrimp marinate?

The shrimp should marinate for about 10 minutes in the olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and juice to absorb the flavors.

What is a good dairy-free option for this dish?

Omit butter and Greek yogurt, using only olive oil to keep it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are done.

What wine pairs well with lemon herb shrimp?

A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrus and herb flavors nicely.

Light Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp

Vibrant lemon herb shrimp with fresh herbs and tangy sauce served over light pasta or veggies.

Prep Duration
15 minutes
Time to Cook
10 minutes
Time Needed
25 minutes
Recipe by Hunter Phillips


Level Easy

Cuisine Mediterranean-Inspired

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Notes No Gluten, Lower-Carb

Ingredient List

Shrimp & Marinade

01 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
03 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 1/2 tsp sea salt
05 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
06 Zest of 1 lemon
07 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Lemon Herb Sauce

01 2 tbsp unsalted butter
02 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
03 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
04 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
05 Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
06 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
07 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
08 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
09 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

To Serve

01 4 cups cooked whole grain pasta, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice
02 Lemon wedges
03 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for topping)
04 1 cup fresh fruit (e.g., berries or orange segments)

Steps

Step 01

Prepare shrimp marinade: In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Toss and marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 02

Sauté garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 03

Cook shrimp: Place marinated shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook 1 to 2 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 04

Prepare sauce base: Pour broth and lemon juice into the skillet. Scrape browned bits from the pan and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 05

Combine herbs and shrimp: Stir in parsley, dill, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Return shrimp to skillet and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat.

Step 06

Serve: Plate shrimp and sauce over choice of cooked whole grain pasta, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with lemon wedges and a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired. Serve fresh fruit on the side.

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Slotted spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Citrus zester

Allergy Info

Look through each ingredient for allergens and check with a healthcare provider if you’re uncertain.
  • Contains shellfish and dairy (if butter or yogurt used)

Nutrition Info (each serving)

Figures are for reference only—always seek medical advice when needed.
  • Caloric Value: 330
  • Fats: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 13 grams
  • Proteins: 30 grams