When summer cravings strike, this Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa is a go-to for something light, fresh, and a little unexpected. Juicy shrimp are tossed in a zesty lemon herb marinade, then pan-seared to perfection, and paired with a sweet-savory strawberry salsa that adds an unforgettable burst of flavor. It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy, tastes amazing, but comes together in no time.

Perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort, this shrimp dish brings sunshine to the plate. The contrast of hot, savory shrimp and cool, fruity salsa is a match made in flavor heaven. Whether served over greens, rice, or on grilled toasts, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

This dish is vibrant, fast, and full of texture. The lemon herb marinade makes the shrimp tangy and fragrant while the salsa adds a bright, juicy sweetness with basil cutting through for freshness. It feels restaurant-quality but with ingredients you likely have on hand.

If you’re trying to eat lighter but not sacrifice on flavor, this checks every box. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with just one tweak.

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Yes, absolutely. Frozen shrimp work great for this dish. Just make sure they are peeled and deveined. Thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating so the sauce sticks better and you get that ideal sear when they hit the pan.

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

To pull off this recipe, you don’t need a long list of ingredients, just a few fresh, bold elements that work well together.

Shrimp – The star of the show. Use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined for easy eating and quick cooking.

Lemon Juice and Zest – This gives the shrimp its bright citrus punch. Freshly squeezed is best for that clean flavor.

Olive Oil – Helps the marinade coat the shrimp and adds richness when cooking.

Garlic – Adds a bold, savory base to the lemon herb marinade.

Fresh Herbs (parsley and thyme) – They bring in that garden-fresh aroma and elevate the overall profile of the dish.

Salt and Pepper – Essential to season both the shrimp and salsa layers just right.

Strawberries – Their natural sweetness pairs surprisingly well with shrimp and brightens every bite.

Fresh Basil – It cuts through the sweetness and adds a touch of savory sophistication to the salsa.

Red Onion – Gives a sharp bite to the salsa, balancing the strawberries.

Balsamic Vinegar – Just a splash enhances the strawberries and pulls the salsa flavors together.

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

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for 15 to 30 minutes in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare the Salsa

While the shrimp marinates, mix diced strawberries, finely chopped red onion, thinly sliced basil, and a splash of balsamic vinegar in a bowl. Stir gently and let it sit so the flavors can mingle.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and lay the shrimp in a single layer. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they curl and develop golden edges.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Serve the hot shrimp immediately with a generous spoonful of the strawberry-basil salsa over the top. Garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

How to Serve and Store This Shrimp Dish

This recipe serves about 4 people, especially if paired with a side. It’s wonderful over a bed of arugula or couscous, tucked into lettuce cups, or piled on toasted sourdough for a brunch-worthy bite.

Store leftovers in an airtight container. The shrimp will keep for up to 2 days in the fridge, but the salsa is best fresh. If prepping ahead, keep the salsa separate and add just before serving to maintain the texture.

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

Grilled Bread or Crostini

For a quick appetizer or light lunch, spoon the shrimp and salsa over crunchy grilled bread.

Herbed Couscous or Quinoa

Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa to soak up the juices.

Mixed Greens Salad

Toss some arugula or spring greens with olive oil and lemon and top with the shrimp and salsa.

Coconut Rice

The natural sweetness of coconut rice complements the lemony shrimp beautifully.

Creamy Polenta

Smooth polenta makes a cozy, rich base for the shrimp and salsa to shine.

Roasted Asparagus

A bright green veggie side that won’t overpower the dish.

Zucchini Noodles

A great low-carb option that still provides a satisfying twirl with every bite.

Want More Shrimp Ideas with a Twist?

If this Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa caught your attention, you’ll probably love these other Luna Meals favorites too:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add jalapeño to the salsa? Serve it over pasta?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for fresh, feel-good flavors.

Conclusion

This Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa proves that bold doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients, you get a flavorful, colorful dish that captures the essence of warm weather cooking. Sweet, savory, tangy, and herby all in one bite—it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp with Strawberry-Basil Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Saucy Lemon Herb Shrimp

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

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