Lemon Herb Shrimp Veggie Skillet

Bright citrus and fresh herbs elevate simple shrimp and colorful veggies in this one-pan meal. I love how it brings together wholesome ingredients in under thirty minutes so it is a go-to when I want something lively yet easy for dinner on a weeknight.

I first made this recipe on a summer evening after a trip to the farmers market and now it is a favorite for both guests and family meals alike

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: look for firm and translucent shrimp that smell clean not fishy they soak up the flavors beautifully
• Olive oil: a good quality oil deepens the richness of the dish and helps sauté everything evenly
• Garlic: go for fresh cloves not pre-minced garlic for maximum aroma and flavor
• Red bell pepper: adds color and mild sweetness
• Yellow bell pepper: gives another layer of vibrant color and gentle pepper taste
• Zucchini: adds tender bites that absorb lemony flavor
• Cherry tomatoes: burst and sweeten the skillet as they cook choose ripe and glossy tomatoes
• Lemon juiced and zested: the real star here buy a lemon that feels heavy for its size
• Dried basil: brings an herbal note dried works well when fresh basil is not available
• Salt and pepper: enhance the natural flavors and help balance the acidity

Instructions

Sauté the Shrimp:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Once hot add the shrimp and garlic Stir often and cook just until the shrimp turn opaque and pink usually 2 to 3 minutes Do not overcook or they will get rubbery Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside on a plate

Cook the Veggies:

In the same skillet add sliced red bell pepper yellow bell pepper zucchini and cherry tomatoes Be sure to scrape up any browned bits left from the shrimp that will flavor the veggies Stir frequently and let the vegetables cook until they are softening but still a bit crisp about 5 to 7 minutes

Combine Shrimp and Veggies:

Add back the cooked shrimp into the pan with the veggies Pour in the fresh lemon juice sprinkle over the lemon zest and dried basil then season with salt and pepper Stir the mixture to let everything get evenly coated

Simmer to Meld Flavors:

Let the skillet cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on low heat This lets the flavors soak into the shrimp and the veggies soak up all the citrus and herb aromas

Serve:

Spoon the skillet hot onto plates and garnish with extra fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh touch Serve with lemon wedges on the side if you like

Shrimp is my personal favorite here because it soaks up every bit of lemon zesty brightness I always remember the time my niece asked for seconds before I even sat down with my plate This skillet brings out the best in everyday ingredients

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge This dish keeps well for up to two days Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or lemon juice to keep the shrimp from getting tough

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have zucchini swap in thinly sliced summer squash Snow peas or asparagus also work well For a spicier twist add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap dried basil for Italian seasoning

Serving Suggestions

Pile the shrimp and veggies over brown or white rice for a heartier meal For a low carb dinner serve over cauliflower rice or a bed of baby spinach and arugula Warm crusty bread is also perfect to soak up any leftover juices

Cultural Touch

Lemon herb shrimp recipes are popular along Mediterranean coasts especially in southern France and Italy The combination of seafood fresh herbs and vegetables is classic for healthy simple meals served with families gathered around a table

Seasonal Adaptations

Use fresh green beans or snap peas in spring Add corn kernels and thin squash in summer Try roasted winter squash cubes in the colder months This recipe suits any season just follow what looks good at the market

Success Stories

A friend texted me last month that her kids now call this superhero shrimp because the colors are so bright Another reader swapped in halved Brussels sprouts and said it was a hit for their low carb meal prep

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can prep this dish ahead by marinating the shrimp with lemon and garlic and freezing it raw Freeze pre sliced peppers and zucchini too Thaw and finish the quick cook steps when you are ready for dinner fresh on the table

This skillet is packed with color and bright flavor that everyone loves. It is as quick to clean up as it is to cook so dinners feel effortless and fresh.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep shrimp tender and juicy?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—usually 2-3 minutes—to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness.

→ Can I substitute other vegetables in this dish?

Yes, try broccoli, asparagus, or snap peas for different textures and flavors. Adjust cook times as needed.

→ Is fresh lemon necessary, or can I use bottled juice?

Fresh lemon juice and zest offer the brightest flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch—skip the zest if not using fresh.

→ What herbs pair well with shrimp and veggies?

Basil is classic here, but parsley, thyme, or oregano also add delicious herbal notes to this skillet meal.

→ How can I make this meal spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of diced fresh chili when cooking the vegetables for extra heat.