Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa

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Shrimp lovers, you’re in for something bright, bold, and totally unforgettable. This Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa is everything you crave in a light summer dish: tangy citrus, juicy berries, aromatic herbs, and buttery garlic shrimp. It’s the kind of meal that looks stunning on the plate but takes surprisingly little time to pull together.

The balance of savory and sweet makes this recipe a standout. Whether you’re hosting a backyard dinner or just want something exciting for a weeknight meal, the vibrant salsa and saucy shrimp make every bite burst with freshness. And when paired with a chilled glass of white wine? Absolute perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

This recipe is fast, flavorful, and feels fancy without requiring any complicated steps. The shrimp is sautéed in a lemony garlic herb butter that adds richness and depth, while the strawberry-basil salsa keeps things bright and refreshing. It’s naturally gluten-free, full of lean protein, and ideal for warm-weather dining.

The contrasting textures and temperatures—warm shrimp with cold salsa—make it interesting and satisfying. Plus, it looks like something from a high-end coastal bistro. Guests will definitely think you worked harder than you actually did.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For best results, use raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Medium to large shrimp (16/20 count per pound) hold up well in the skillet and stay juicy. Frozen shrimp is totally fine—just be sure to thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels before cooking to avoid a watery sauce. Tail-on shrimp are more photogenic, but tail-off is easier for serving.

Ingredients for the Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa

When your ingredients are fresh and simple, you don’t need many. This recipe highlights the natural flavors of shrimp and strawberries with just the right accents.

• Shrimp: The star of the dish. Use large, raw shrimp for best texture and flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness to the lemon herb sauce.
• Garlic: Brings warmth and depth to the shrimp.
• Lemon juice: Bright and zesty, it lifts the whole dish.
• Fresh herbs: A mix of parsley and thyme creates that classic, fragrant base.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for balance and enhancing flavors.
• Strawberries: Juicy and sweet, they contrast beautifully with the savory shrimp.
• Fresh basil: Adds a peppery freshness to the salsa.
• Red onion: Offers a little bite and color in the salsa.
• Balsamic glaze: Just a drizzle pulls the salsa together with a tangy finish.

How To Make the Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa

Step 1: Make the Strawberry-Basil Salsa

In a small bowl, combine chopped strawberries, finely diced red onion, and sliced fresh basil. Add a pinch of salt and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze. Toss gently and chill while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle in chopped herbs. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Plate and Serve

Arrange the warm shrimp on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the chilled strawberry-basil salsa over the top or on the side. Optionally, add a final drizzle of balsamic glaze and a few extra basil leaves for garnish.

Serving and Storing This Lemon Herb Shrimp

This dish is best served immediately while the shrimp is hot and the salsa is cool. The contrast in temperature is part of what makes it so craveable. It feeds 4 people as a main course, or 6 as an appetizer when paired with crostini or salad.

If you do end up with leftovers, store the shrimp and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, and serve with freshly stirred salsa.

What to Serve With Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa?

Garlic Herb Rice

Fluffy rice cooked with a little garlic and herbs makes a perfect neutral base to soak up that lemony sauce.

Grilled Asparagus

The charred flavor of grilled asparagus pairs well with the brightness of the dish.

Mixed Greens with Citrus Vinaigrette

A simple salad brings a crisp, refreshing side to round out the plate.

Buttery Polenta

Creamy polenta is comforting and pairs beautifully with both the shrimp and the tangy salsa.

Crusty Baguette

Perfect for sopping up any leftover lemon butter sauce.

Chilled Rosé or Sauvignon Blanc

A glass of chilled wine is always a good idea with shrimp and fruit.

Cucumber Avocado Salad

A cooling contrast that highlights the herbaceous flavors in the shrimp.

Want More Seafood Ideas?

If this zesty shrimp recipe brightened your day, here are a few more seafood-forward favorites from Mia Plates to explore:

• Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole for a hearty, oven-baked option.
• Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage Broccoli if you’re craving a skillet-style weeknight dinner.
• Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for creamy, romantic pasta night vibes.
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon when you want something rich and satisfying.
• Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon for an easy yet elegant sheet pan dinner.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it next time you’re craving something fresh, fast, and flavorful.

Let me know how it turned out for you! Did you tweak the herbs or try another fruit in the salsa? I’d love to hear your take on it.

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