If you’re craving a quick, tasty meal, my Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir-Fry is just for you! In just a few minutes, you can whip up shrimp coated in rich garlic butter and colorful veggies. I’ll guide you through simple steps and share tips to make it perfect every time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s both fast and flavorful! You won’t want to miss it!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 cup assorted bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, and green)
– 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Recommended Garnishes
– Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Garlic Butter
To start, you need to melt the butter. Take a large skillet or wok and set it over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, but keep an eye on it. You want it bubbling, not burning. When the butter melts, it’s time to add the garlic. Use 5 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds. Stir it constantly until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful here; burnt garlic can ruin the dish.
Cooking the Shrimp
Next, add 1 pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Season them with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes. Turn them frequently so they cook evenly. You’ll know they are ready when they turn pink and opaque. This part is quick, so don’t walk away!
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Now, it’s time for the veggies. Add 1 cup of assorted sliced bell peppers and 1 cup of trimmed snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry these for another 2 to 3 minutes. You want the vegetables to stay crunchy and bright. They add color and nutrients, making the dish even better.
Combining Sauces and Serving
After your shrimp and veggies are cooked, it’s time to add the sauces. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of honey over everything. If you like heat, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp and veggies in the sauce. Let it cook for another minute. This helps the flavors blend. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfectly Sauté Garlic
Sautéing garlic is key for great flavor. Start by melting butter in a pan. Once it bubbles, add minced garlic. Stir it constantly for about 30 seconds. Look for a light golden color. Be careful not to let it burn. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and ruins the dish.
Ensuring Shrimp are Cooked Properly
Cooking shrimp can be tricky. They should turn pink and opaque when done. Cook them for 2-3 minutes, turning them often. Under-cooked shrimp can be unsafe to eat. Always check that they are fully cooked before serving.
Vegetable Substitutions and Additions
Feel free to swap or add vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini work well. You can also use carrots for a sweet crunch. Just cut them into small pieces for quick cooking. This stir-fry is flexible to your tastes. Enjoy making it your own!
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir-Fry
To add heat to your dish, you can make a spicy garlic butter shrimp stir-fry. Simply include the crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount based on your heat level preference. You can also add a splash of sriracha or chili oil for extra kick. This combination enhances the garlic flavor while keeping your shrimp tender.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli
If you love broccoli, use it as a base for your shrimp stir-fry. Just add one cup of fresh or frozen broccoli florets when you add the bell peppers. Cook until it turns bright green and tender but still crisp. Broccoli adds nutrition and a nice crunch, making your dish even more satisfying.
Paleo and Keto-Friendly Options
For those following paleo or keto diets, adjust your recipe to fit your needs. Replace the honey with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or omit it altogether. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free option. This keeps the dish flavorful while fitting into your dietary choices. You can also serve the shrimp stir-fry over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down. Place the shrimp stir-fry in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to label the container. This way, you’ll know when you made it.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to reheat, use a skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth. This keeps the shrimp from drying out. Stir and heat for about five minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts of 30 seconds. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
Freezing Tips
If you have extra, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled stir-fry in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste.
FAQs
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp stir-fry?
You can serve garlic butter shrimp stir-fry with several sides. Here are some ideas:
– Steamed rice
– Quinoa
– Noodles
– Cauliflower rice
– A fresh green salad
These sides will balance the rich flavors of the dish.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. Using frozen shrimp saves time and still gives great results.
How do I make a low-sodium version of this dish?
To lower the sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also reduce the amount of soy sauce in the recipe. Adding fresh herbs or citrus juice can enhance flavor without adding salt.
What are some other flavor variations for this stir-fry?
You can change up the flavors in many ways:
– Add ginger for warmth.
– Use lime juice for a citrus twist.
– Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.
– Include other veggies, like broccoli or carrots.
These variations keep the dish exciting and fresh!
This blog covered how to make garlic butter shrimp stir-fry in simple steps. You learned about key ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for perfecting the dish. Don’t forget the optional ingredients and garnishes that can enhance flavors! If you want to try different ways, we shared tasty variations. Proper storage lets you enjoy leftovers too. Embrace your cooking journey, and make this dish your own! With these tools and ideas, you’ll impress everyone at your table.
