Dinner

Sautéed Shrimp with Lemon-Caper Dressing Recipe

Bylilan Sage February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

Introduction

Sautéed Shrimp with Lemon-Caper Dressing is a bright and flavorful dish perfect for warm evenings or as a light appetizer. The combination of fresh lemon, dill, and capers gives the shrimp a zesty, tangy kick that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

A white plate holds a dish made of shrimp in a light yellow sauce. There are about two layers of shrimp that are pink with white flesh and slight orange edges, spread evenly across the plate. Mixed in are thin, pale slices of onion or fennel and small green capers scattered around. Fresh small dill leaves add a touch of green scattered over the shrimp. A silver spoon rests on the right side of the plate, partially covered with sauce and small herbs. The plate is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
¼ cup lemon juice, from 1 large lemon
2 very thin slices of lemon, deseeded and coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped dill
1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon capers, coarsely chopped
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Kosher salt
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil with the lemon juice, chopped lemon slices, dill, garlic, and capers. Set this dressing aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with kosher salt and crushed red pepper, mixing gently to coat evenly.
Step 3: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and develop light browning on the edges, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Transfer the cooked shrimp to the bowl with the lemon-caper dressing. Toss well to coat each shrimp thoroughly. Serve immediately, or allow to cool to room temperature before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra zest, add a pinch of lemon zest to the dressing along with the juice.
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can substitute dill for a different flavor profile.
Serve over a bed of mixed greens or alongside crusty bread to make a complete meal.
If you prefer a milder heat, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper.

Storage

Store any leftover shrimp with the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The shrimp can marinate in the dressing, enhancing the flavor. When ready to serve, enjoy chilled or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it may overcook the shrimp.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with cooked shrimp showing pale pink and white colors, scattered with thin green dill leaves and small round green capers. The shrimp rest in a golden yellow oily sauce with visible pieces of translucent sliced onions. A silver spoon lies on the right edge of the bowl, partially resting in the sauce. The bowl is set on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to achieve the best texture.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can cook the shrimp and toss them in the dressing up to one day in advance. Keep refrigerated and serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.