If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors yet comes together in a flash, the Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. This delightful combination of tender shrimp glazed in a zesty, buttery lemon-herb sauce paired with a bright, sweet-and-savory strawberry-basil salsa is a celebration of contrasting tastes and textures that dance on your palate. It’s fresh, colorful, and so satisfying that every bite feels like sunshine on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa Recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each fresh component contributes something special—citrusy brightness, herbal freshness, sweet juiciness, and buttery richness—that together elevate this dish to unforgettable levels.
- 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that cooks quickly and soaks up all those delicious flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds vibrant acidity to brighten the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Packs concentrated citrus oils for an aromatic punch.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant base that complements herbs and shrimp beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich, silky sauce that coats the shrimp luxuriously.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps cook the shrimp evenly and adds a fruity undertone.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, slightly peppery green note.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: Introduces a sweet, aromatic herbaceousness that brightens the dish.
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a subtle heat kick that is totally optional but adds depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries: Sweet and juicy, these create the unexpected star of the salsa.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion: Provides a mild sharpness and crunch to the salsa.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: Echoes the herb in the shrimp sauce, tying the components together.
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: Sweetens the salsa just enough to contrast the lemony shrimp.
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the salsa’s sweetness.
- 2 cups cooked rice or grain of choice: Acts as a perfect, neutral base to soak up all that delicious sauce and salsa.
- Lemon wedges for garnish (optional): For an extra pop of freshness at serving time.
How to Make Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry-Basil Salsa
Start by mixing the diced strawberries, finely chopped red onion, fresh basil, honey (or maple syrup), and balsamic vinegar in a bowl. This simple salsa will sit for about 10 minutes, allowing those juicy strawberries to mingle with sweet and tangy flavors that perfectly complement the shrimp’s savory notes.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
Pat your shrimp dry to ensure they sear nicely. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. Watch for that beautiful pink color and slight golden sear that signals they’re ready to be bathed in sauce.
Step 3: Create the Lemony Herb Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat and add butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice to your skillet. Stir gently until the butter melts and the garlic releases its mouthwatering aroma. Toss in your fresh parsley and basil, then gently coat the shrimp in this fragrant, silky sauce. This step transforms simple shrimp into something truly special.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Place the cooked shrimp over a bed of warm rice or your favorite grain, then spoon generous amounts of the strawberry-basil salsa over the top. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy, and serve immediately to enjoy every vibrant, saucy bite.
How to Serve Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few lemon wedges or sprigs of fresh parsley and basil as garnishes not only makes the presentation pop but also offers an additional burst of aroma and flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish can add a subtle fruitiness that ties everything together.
Side Dishes
This Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa Recipe shines served alongside fluffy rice or your favorite grain like quinoa or farro. For added crunch and freshness, a crisp baby spinach salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully and balances the richness of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Take this dish to the next level by serving it in colorful bowls topped with microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant-worthy presentation. You can also pile the shrimp and salsa on toasted baguette slices or fresh lettuce leaves for a fun appetizer-style twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of the Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa Recipe, store the shrimp and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This helps preserve the freshness and texture of each component without becoming soggy.
Freezing
While shrimp generally freeze well, the fresh strawberry-basil salsa is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the delicate fruit and herbs. You can freeze the shrimp portion in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months, then prepare a fresh salsa when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of olive oil or butter if it feels dry. Serve immediately with freshly made salsa for that perfect fresh taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely, pat them dry, and drain any excess moisture before cooking to ensure you get a nice sear and avoid steaming the shrimp.
Is there a substitute for fresh basil in the salsa?
If you don’t have fresh basil, fresh mint can be a refreshing substitute that pairs well with strawberries. However, dried basil won’t provide the same vibrant flavor, so fresh herbs are highly recommended.
Can I make the salsa ahead of time?
Yes, the salsa can be made up to a few hours ahead, but it’s best to add it fresh right before serving to retain the bright flavors and prevent the strawberries from becoming too juicy.
What can I serve instead of rice?
Quinoa, couscous, or even a bed of mixed greens can replace rice if you prefer a lighter or grain-free option. Each offers a different texture but works beautifully with the shrimp and salsa.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level is very mild and optional thanks to the pinch of red pepper flakes. You can easily omit them for no heat or add more if you want a spicier kick that balances the sweetness of the salsa.
Final Thoughts
I seriously can’t recommend the Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa Recipe enough—it’s fresh, bright, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends, this dish delivers on all fronts. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of those recipes you come back to time and again!
Print
Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This vibrant Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp recipe combines succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce with a fresh and fruity strawberry-basil salsa. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a bright and flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or quick dinner, served over your choice of cooked rice or grain.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Strawberry-Basil Salsa
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
To Serve
- 2 cups cooked rice or grain of choice
- Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced strawberries, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh basil, honey or maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar. Stir gently to combine and set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you cook the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and develop a slight golden sear.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir constantly until the butter has melted and the garlic is fragrant. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and basil, tossing the shrimp gently to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Spoon the cooked shrimp and sauce over cooked rice or your preferred grain. Top with the fresh strawberry-basil salsa. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra herbs if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor in the salsa.
- Substitute the rice with quinoa or couscous for a different grain base.
- To keep it dairy-free, substitute butter with additional olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Make sure to pat the shrimp dry to ensure they sear properly and develop a nice crust.
