Broiled Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Recipe: The 5-Minute Dinner

Discover the fastest and most flavorful lemon garlic shrimp recipe for a weeknight dinner! This broiled dish takes just 5 minutes under the heat and is incredibly simple to prepare. We elevate the classic flavors of fresh lemon and pungent garlic with a secret ingredient: El Guapo® Cuban Bitters.

The bitters add a complex, zesty, and savory depth to the marinade, transforming the shrimp into an unforgettable meal. Follow this easy lemon garlic shrimp recipe to achieve perfectly cooked, tender seafood every time.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe Ingredients

Eight servings:

• 1/3 c. olive oil

• Grated peel of one large lemon
• .25 c. freshly squeezed lemon juice
• .25 c. chopped cilantro or flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tbsp. El Guapo® Cuban Bitters
  
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 tsp. salt (or to taste)
• .5 tsp. Crystal or Tabasco hot sauce
• 2 lbs deveined large shrimp with tails on, about 21/25 size

• 8 (10-inch) skewers (soaked 30 minutes if wooden)

Step-by-Step Broiled Shrimp Instructions

1. Prepare Marinade: In a non-metallic bowl, combine all ingredients except the shrimp and skewers. Stir well until fully mixed.
2. Marinate Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp (tails on) to the marinade. Stir to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1.5 hours.
3. Prep Broiler: Heat your broiler to high. Line a large sheet tray with foil and place a baking rack on top.
4. Skewer & Broil: Drain the shrimp and thread them onto the skewers. Place the skewers on the baking rack. Broil the shrimp for 3 to 5 minutes total, or until the shrimp are cooked through and opaque.
5. Serve: Serve immediately with fresh lemon slices, if desired.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long can I marinate the shrimp for this recipe?

A: We recommend marinating the shrimp for 1.5 hours as specified. Because the marinade contains fresh lemon juice (an acid), do not marinate for more than two hours, as the acidity can begin to break down the shrimp, potentially making it mushy or tough.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this Broiled Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted very dry with paper towels before adding them to the marinade. Removing excess moisture is key to getting a perfect sear and preventing the shrimp from steaming under the broiler.

Q: What do El Guapo® Cuban Bitters add to this shrimp dish?

A: El Guapo® Cuban Bitters add a unique, savory, and complex citrus-herbaceous depth to the marinade. They complement the lemon and garlic by introducing notes of bay leaf, clove, and grapefruit peel, elevating the flavor profile beyond a traditional garlic butter shrimp recipe.

Q: What is the best way to prevent the wooden skewers from burning under the broiler?

A: It is essential to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to threading the shrimp. This allows the wood to absorb moisture, preventing them from catching fire or burning under the intense heat of the broiler.