This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp recipe is a quick and tasty dish that will make your taste buds dance! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich lemony butter sauce with a hint of garlic.
Honestly, it’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate! I love serving it over pasta or rice, and it never disappoints. A sprinkle of parsley on top makes it look fancy too! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp work best for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp is a great alternative. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking. For a different flavor, you can also use scallops or chicken if you prefer.
Butter: I always use unsalted butter to control the saltiness in the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute with olive oil. It won’t be as rich, but it will still taste lovely!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential here for that wonderful flavor. You can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch, but use it sparingly—start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemons brighten up the dish. If lemons aren’t available, lime juice can be an excellent substitute for a different but tasty zing!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Basil or cilantro can work too if you want to switch up the flavor profile.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Pat the shrimp dry to help them sear nicely and not steam.
- Cook on medium heat to not burn the garlic; you want to keep it fragrant.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Watch for color change; shrimp turn pink and opaque when done, usually about 2-3 minutes on each side.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve tender, succulent shrimp every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp in just about 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Then, season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Take a large skillet and melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown as that can make it bitter.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
4. Add the Flavor:
Flip the shrimp over and pour in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir everything gently to combine the flavors. This is where the dish gets its delicious, tangy sauce!
5. Finish Cooking:
Let the shrimp cook for another 1-2 minutes. Spoon the buttery sauce over the shrimp as they finish cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they are fully cooked and opaque.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, stir in the finely chopped parsley and add the crushed red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed. Remove the skillet from the heat, garnish with lemon slices, and serve your shrimp immediately. Enjoy with rice, pasta, or bread to soak up that fantastic garlic lemon butter sauce!
This dish tastes best when it’s fresh and warm, filled with bright lemony flavors and a rich buttery garlic goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking for the best results!
What Can I Serve with Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp?
This flavorful shrimp pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over pasta, rice, or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. It also complements steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you like some heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, drizzle some hot sauce over the plated shrimp for an extra kick!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of lemon juice to refresh the flavors. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp and lead to a rubbery texture.