Easy • Seafood

Zesty Shrimp & Couscous Skillet

A bright and speedy skillet meal featuring succulent shrimp, fluffy couscous, and a burst of zesty lemon and fresh herbs.

Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
2
Level
Easy
Zesty Shrimp & Couscous Skillet

When you need a meal that's both light and satisfying, this Zesty Shrimp & Couscous Skillet is your go-to! It's incredibly quick, packed with vibrant flavors, and comes together in one pan for minimal cleanup. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something fresh and delicious.

Ingredients

Yield: 2 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 1 small shallot, minced (or 1/4 red onion, finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup quick-cooking couscous
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet with a lid over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

  2. Step 2

    Add minced shallot (or onion) to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Step 3

    Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the couscous. Cover the skillet, remove from heat, and let stand for 5 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and couscous is fluffy.

  4. Step 4

    Fluff the couscous with a fork. Stir in the cooked shrimp, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

  5. Step 5

    Serve immediately, perhaps with a simple green salad on the side.

Tips

  • Don't overcook the shrimp, as it cooks very quickly and can become rubbery.
  • For extra veggies, stir in a handful of baby spinach or cherry tomatoes with the shrimp in the last minute of cooking.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright flavor.

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