Sheet-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Zucchini Delight

Ready for a quick, tasty meal? My Sheet-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Zucchini Delight brings bright flavors straight to your kitchen. In just minutes, you can whip up a dish that combines juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and a zesty marinade. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s not just easy but also packed with flavor!
Ingredients
Detailed List of Ingredients
- Fresh shrimp: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Vegetables: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (choose your favorite color for a vibrant look)
- 1/2 red onion, sliced into thin wedges
- Marinade components:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about one lemon)
- Zest of 1 lemon for added flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Garnish: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
When I make this dish, I love how fresh shrimp pairs with bright veggies. The vibrant colors of the zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion make the plate pop. For the marinade, I use olive oil, lemon juice, and zest, which add a zesty kick. Minced garlic brings in depth, while oregano adds warmth. Don’t forget the salt and pepper for balance!
This simple list of ingredients is easy to find. You can get them all at your local market. Fresh parsley on top makes it look beautiful and adds freshness. I always remind myself that using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in taste. You will love how easy it is to gather the ingredients for this flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, lemon zest, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Whisk until blended.
- Add 1 pound of shrimp, 2 sliced zucchinis, 1 sliced bell pepper, and 1/2 sliced red onion to the bowl. Toss everything well to coat.
Cooking Steps
- Spread the shrimp and vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Leave space for air to flow around them.
- Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Look for shrimp to turn pink and opaque, and veggies to be tender but bright.
Serving Suggestions
- After baking, let the dish cool for about one minute. This helps the flavors settle.
- Serve on a decorative platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of color.
- Pair with crusty bread or a light salad to complete your meal. Enjoy the bright flavors!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To ensure perfectly cooked shrimp, watch the color closely. When shrimp turn pink and opaque, they are done. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
For caramelized veggies, spread them out on the pan. This allows steam to escape, leading to that golden color. Use a high oven temp for best results.
Meal Prep Suggestions
Prepare your ingredients ahead of time. Slice the zucchini and bell pepper early. You can also marinate the shrimp a few hours before cooking. This adds flavor and saves time.
For storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the shrimp’s texture.

Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change up the veggies in this dish. If you have bell peppers, try using asparagus or cherry tomatoes instead. Broccoli florets can also be a great choice. They add color and taste with ease.
For herbs, you can swap fresh parsley for basil or cilantro. Thyme or rosemary can also bring a new flavor. Fresh herbs always add a nice touch.
Flavor Enhancements
Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This will spice things up and add a new kick. If you love heat, try a bit of sriracha in your marinade.
You can also play with different marinades. For a sweet twist, mix in honey or maple syrup. A splash of soy sauce can give it an Asian flair. Experiment with these options to find your favorite.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep your Sheet-Pan Lemon Herb Shrimp & Zucchini fresh, follow these tips:
- Cool Down First: Let the dish cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation in your storage container.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store leftovers in airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work great for this.
- Refrigerate Quickly: Place the containers in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps reduce the risk of bacteria.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating shrimp can be tricky. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the shrimp and veggies on a baking sheet. Heat for 8-10 minutes. This keeps the shrimp juicy and tasty.
- Microwave with Care: If you use a microwave, heat on low power. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking. Check frequently to keep the shrimp tender.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your delicious meal again without losing its great taste!
FAQs
Common Questions about the Recipe
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
The shrimp turn pink and opaque when they are done. They should also curl slightly. This usually takes about 12-15 minutes in the oven.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure they are peeled and deveined before using.
What’s the best way to cut zucchini for this dish?
Slice the zucchini into half-moons. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly and stay tender.
Additional Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance. Store the shrimp and veggies in the marinade in the fridge. Just bake them before serving.
What are some good side dishes to serve with it?
Great sides include crusty bread or a light salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
You now know how to make a tasty shrimp and vegetable dish. We covered the fresh ingredients, step-by-step cooking steps, and fun tips to make this meal shine. Remember to play with flavors and ingredients. Don’t hesitate to try new veggies or add spices. This dish is not just quick to cook; it’s also great for meal prep. Keep your leftover shrimp tender by storing them right. Enjoy making this healthy dish your way!






![- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, thinly sliced - 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, packed - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 red Thai chili peppers, thinly sliced (adjust based on your spice preference) For this dish, I prefer chicken breast. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. Fresh Thai basil gives this meal its unique flavor. Garlic adds a nice aroma, and Thai chili peppers bring heat. You can control the spice by adding more or less chili. - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or substitute with mushroom sauce for vegetarian) - 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or an extra tablespoon of soy sauce for vegetarian) - 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance flavors) - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying) These sauces are key to great taste. Soy sauce offers saltiness, while oyster and fish sauces add depth. Sugar balances the salty flavors, making everything taste better. - 1 bell pepper, sliced (your choice of color for visual appeal) - 1 small onion, sliced into thin wedges - Optional: other vegetables for added nutrition I like using bell pepper and onion for color and crunch. You can add other veggies like carrots or snap peas. They bring more nutrition and flavor, making the dish more vibrant. For the full recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. To start, you need to combine the chicken with the sauces. In a medium bowl, add the sliced chicken breast, soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix these ingredients well so the chicken gets all the flavor. Let it marinate for 15 minutes. This short time helps the chicken absorb the tasty sauces. Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer before adding anything. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced Thai chili peppers. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds until they smell amazing. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Now, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Spread it out evenly for even cooking. Stir-fry for about 5 to 7 minutes. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and has a nice brown color. After that, toss in the sliced bell pepper and onion. Stir-fry for another 3 to 4 minutes. This will make the vegetables tender but still crisp. Once the chicken and veggies are done, take the skillet off the heat. Gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves. They will wilt quickly from the heat and add a lovely aroma. Serve the dish hot, over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. This rice complements the stir-fry well. Enjoy your Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh Thai basil gives a sweet and fragrant flavor to the dish. Always choose bright green basil leaves. They should smell strong and sweet. The chicken should be fresh, too. This keeps your stir-fry tasty and safe to eat. For the best flavor, cook on high heat. A hot pan helps to sear the chicken. This adds a nice caramel color and enhances the taste. When you add garlic and chili, cook them quickly. This brings out their strong flavors without burning them. You can change the heat level easily. If you want it milder, remove the seeds from the chili peppers. You can also use fewer peppers or substitute with sweet bell peppers. If you like a kick but want it less spicy, try adding sugar. It balances the heat. You can also use a bit of honey for sweetness without heat. Pair your Thai basil chicken stir-fry with jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the sauce well. You can also add a side of steamed veggies for extra nutrition. For garnishes, consider adding lime wedges or crushed peanuts. They add color and crunch. Fresh cilantro or extra basil leaves also make it pop. Enjoy your meal with these simple touches! For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_4}} For a vegetarian or vegan version, you can swap chicken for tofu or tempeh. These options give a nice texture. Use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce. It brings depth and umami flavor. For the fish sauce, simply add an extra tablespoon of soy sauce. This keeps the taste bold. To maintain flavor, marinate the tofu or tempeh just like chicken. Allow it to soak up the sauces. When cooking, make sure to press out excess moisture. This helps achieve that nice, crispy texture we all love. If you want to try something new, switch the chicken for shrimp or beef. Shrimp cooks quickly, so cut down the cooking time to about 3-4 minutes. Beef takes longer. Slice it thin and cook it for about 6-8 minutes. Remember, cooking times change based on what protein you use. Always make sure your protein is fully cooked before adding in the veggies. Want to shake things up? Add sauces like teriyaki or sriracha for an exciting twist. Teriyaki gives a sweet flavor, while sriracha adds heat. You can even mix both for a sweet and spicy kick. Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices too. Adding cilantro or mint can brighten the dish. Try a sprinkle of lime juice for an extra zest. These tiny changes can create a whole new taste experience. For the full recipe, check the section above. Enjoy cooking! To keep your Thai basil chicken stir-fry fresh, store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of cooking. If you want to save it longer, freeze the stir-fry. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing. This method helps retain flavor and texture. When you reheat your stir-fry, use a skillet for the best results. Heat it over medium warmth and stir often. This keeps the chicken juicy and prevents it from drying out. For rice, add a splash of water and cover it. This helps the rice steam and become fluffy again. In the fridge, your Thai basil chicken stir-fry lasts up to four days. If frozen, it can last for about three months. Always check for off smells or changes in color. If you see these, it's best to discard it for safety. Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry has roots in Thai street food. This dish reflects the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. It showcases fresh herbs, bold spices, and simple cooking techniques. Thai basil, known for its unique flavor, is key to this dish. It adds a sweet and slightly spicy note that enhances the chicken. This meal represents the balance of sweet, salty, and spicy tastes typical in Thai dishes. Each bite transports you to bustling markets in Thailand. Yes, you can prepare Thai basil chicken stir-fry in advance. Cook and store it in the fridge for up to three days. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove. This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Serve it over freshly cooked jasmine rice for a quick meal. If you cannot find Thai basil, you have options. Sweet basil or holy basil works well as a substitute. Sweet basil offers a milder flavor, while holy basil is spicier. You can also mix in a bit of mint for a fresh twist. While these substitutes change the taste slightly, they still create a tasty dish. Just remember, the flavor will differ from the original recipe. The spice level of Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry can vary. It depends on the number of Thai chili peppers you use. Typically, this dish has a mild to medium heat. If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer chilis or remove the seeds. For those who love heat, add extra chilis or a dash of hot sauce. Adjusting spice levels allows everyone to enjoy this flavorful meal. Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish. You learned about the key ingredients, like fresh basil and chicken. The step-by-step instructions make cooking easy, even for beginners. We explored tips to enhance flavor and adjust spice levels to suit your taste. You can even try fun variations with different proteins or herbs. Enjoy making it your own, and savor the fresh flavors. Every bite will bring joy to your table.](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/20a2f9de-1755-4b6a-ade1-393123d10e24-768x768.webp)
