Light Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp

Featured in: Citrus-Boosted Weeknight Dinners

This light and bright lemon herb shrimp dish combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon and fresh herb sauce. The shrimp are marinated with garlic, olive oil, and lemon zest, then sautéed quickly in butter and olive oil. A medley of parsley, dill, and basil enriches the sauce, which is finished with a splash of broth and fresh lemon juice. Serve over whole grain pasta, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice for a light yet flavorful meal. Optional toppings include Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for added freshness and creaminess.

Updated on Sat, 06 Dec 2025 10:01:00 GMT
Vibrant photo of Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, with plump shrimp in a bright lemon sauce. Save to Pinterest
Vibrant photo of Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, with plump shrimp in a bright lemon sauce. | citrusfern.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 has quickly become a favorite in my household for its bright flavors and simple preparation.

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

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.
A light bowl of Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, brimming with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Save to Pinterest
A light bowl of Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, brimming with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. | citrusfern.com

My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this bright flavorful meal especially on warm evenings.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

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

Nutritional Information

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

Close-up of the flavorful Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, served with whole grain pasta. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of the flavorful Light & Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp Scampi, served with whole grain pasta. | citrusfern.com

This lemon herb shrimp scampi is perfect for a light wholesome dinner that comes together quickly and impresses every time.

Recipe FAQs

How do I keep the shrimp tender and juicy?

Marinate the shrimp briefly in olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and juice before cooking. Avoid overcooking by sautéing each side for 1–2 minutes until just opaque.

Can I substitute the herbs in the sauce?

Yes, fresh herbs like tarragon or chives can be added or swapped to suit your taste while maintaining the vibrant flavor profile.

What are good serving options for this dish?

This shrimp pairs well with whole grain pasta, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice for a light, nutritious meal.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Omit the butter and Greek yogurt, then use olive oil exclusively to keep the flavors bright and the dish free of dairy.

What wine pairs best with lemon herb shrimp?

A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the citrus notes and complements the fresh herbs beautifully.

Light Bright Lemon Herb Shrimp

A bright blend of shrimp, lemon, and fresh herbs cooked in a light, citrusy sauce for easy meals.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
10 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Recipe by Citrus Fern Wyatt Palmer


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Mediterranean-Inspired

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Preferences None specified

What You Need

Shrimp & Marinade

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

Lemon Herb Sauce

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 2 tablespoons 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 tablespoons)
06 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
07 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
08 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
09 1/4 teaspoon 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, for serving)

Steps

Step 01

Marinate Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let marinate for 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

Step 02

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

Step 03

Cook Shrimp: Add marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 04

Prepare Sauce: Pour broth and lemon juice into the skillet. Scrape browned bits from the bottom 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 desired. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat. Cook for 1 additional minute, then remove from heat.

Step 06

Serve: Place shrimp and sauce over cooked whole grain pasta, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with lemon wedges and top with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit if desired.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Always review every ingredient for possible allergens. If unsure, chat with your healthcare provider first.
  • Contains shellfish and dairy if butter or yogurt are used.
  • Use only olive oil and omit dairy products to make dairy-free.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Details provided to help guide you. For health decisions, speak with a professional.
  • Energy (kcal): 330
  • Fat Content: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrate: 13 grams
  • Proteins: 30 grams