Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp

Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table in just a matter of minutes. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms extra-large shrimp into a succulent dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The combination of garlic, lemon, and buttery goodness creates a symphony of flavors that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp deserves a prime spot in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish. Second, the dish is packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner party. The bright acidity of lemon balances perfectly with the richness of butter, while fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness. Finally, shrimp is a great source of protein and can be enjoyed in various diets, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Your Shopping Guide

When shopping for your Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp, here’s what you’ll need:

• Shrimp: 1 ½ lbs of extra-large (21/25) shrimp, peeled and deveined.
• Butter: 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted.
• Lemon: 1 ½ tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, preferably from a juicy lemon.
• Parsley: 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley for garnish.
• Salt & Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste.
• Sugar: 1/8 teaspoon to balance flavors.
• Olive Oil: 4 teaspoons of high-quality olive oil, divided for cooking.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced for that aromatic flavor.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

To create this delicious Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp, make sure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:

• Skillet: A large skillet will help you sauté the shrimp evenly.
• Spatula: For stirring and flipping the shrimp.
• Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.
• Garlic Press: Optional, but helpful for mincing garlic quickly.
• Cutting Board: For chopping parsley and preparing ingredients.
• Serving Dish: To plate your beautiful Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp.

Stepwise Method: Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures that the shrimp sear nicely in the skillet.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating that it’s ready for cooking.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Flip and Add Butter

Using a spatula, flip the shrimp over and add the melted butter and remaining olive oil. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the minced parsley for a fresh touch. Transfer the Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Make It Year-Round

Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp is a dish that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Here’s how to make it adaptable to any season:

• Spring & Summer: Serve it over a bed of fresh greens or as a topping for a light pasta salad.
• Fall & Winter: Pair it with creamy risotto or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch and portion it out for quick lunches during the week.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to switch up the flavor profile.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Burning Garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing. If it starts to brown too much, lower the heat.
• Too Salty: Start with less salt and adjust to taste after cooking.
• Not Enough Lemon Flavor: Adjust the lemon juice to your preference; fresh lemon juice makes a noticeable difference.

Shelf Life & Storage

Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Do not freeze the shrimp as the texture may change.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them fully before cooking. Rinse under cold water and pat dry before following the recipe.

What can I serve with Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad. It’s also delicious served over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a kick of heat. Adjust to your spice preference.

Is there a substitute for butter in this recipe?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use vegan butter or olive oil instead of butter. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Here are some healthy-ish recipes you might enjoy that complement the flavors of Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp:

• Healthy Garlic Lemon Quinoa
• Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Sauce
• Mediterranean Greek Salad
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to bring this delicious Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp recipe to life! Gather your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and get ready for a meal that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy the process and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as you cook.

Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Happy cooking!