Craving a quick and easy seafood dish packed with flavor? Look no further! This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is simple, delicious, and ready in just 15 minutes. With fresh shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter, then brightened with lemon, this dish will impress everyone at your table. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process and share tips to make it your own. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Additional Flavors and Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
When I prepare Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp, I focus on fresh ingredients. Start with large shrimp. They should be peeled and deveined. This saves you time and makes the dish easier to eat.
I use unsalted butter for a rich flavor. It melts quickly and adds creaminess. Fresh garlic is key. I mince it finely to release its strong aroma. Lemon zest brings a bright, zesty note. It makes the dish pop. Fresh lemon juice adds a tangy kick that balances the richness of the butter.
For a little heat, I sometimes add red pepper flakes. Adjust these to your liking. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Fresh parsley is the final touch. It adds color and freshness to the plate.
You can find the full recipe for this dish to enjoy these bright flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Start by melting unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat.
– Sauté minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden.
First, grab a large skillet and set it on medium heat. Add four tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt slowly. Swirl the pan a bit to help it melt evenly. You don’t want it to brown.
Next, add four cloves of finely minced garlic. The smell will be amazing! Sauté the garlic for about one to two minutes. Make sure to stir it often. You want it fragrant and just lightly golden.
Cooking the Shrimp
– Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
– Cook until shrimp turn pink, then flip to finish cooking.
Now, it’s time for the shrimp! Add one pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined, into the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and, if you like a kick, red pepper flakes. I usually use about one teaspoon.
Let the shrimp cook for two to three minutes on one side. Watch them turn pink and curl up. When they do, gently flip them over to finish cooking.
Finalizing the Dish
– Pour in lemon zest and juice, stirring to coat shrimp.
– Cook until shrimp are fully cooked through, then garnish with parsley.
Once the shrimp are nearly done, pour in one tablespoon of lemon zest and two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to coat all the shrimp in the zesty sauce.
Cook for another two to three minutes. The shrimp should look opaque and firm. Now, remove the skillet from heat. Finish by sprinkling two tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley on top. This adds a nice touch!
This quick recipe is not just easy but also super tasty! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp
To avoid overcooking shrimp, watch the color. Cook them until they turn pink. This usually takes 2-3 minutes per side. If they curl tightly, they are overcooked. Keep the heat at medium to medium-high for the best texture.
Peeling and deveining shrimp takes practice. Start by holding the shrimp in one hand. Use your other hand to pull off the shell, starting from the head. For deveining, make a shallow cut along the back. Remove the dark vein with a toothpick or your fingers. It’s easier than it sounds!
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cumin. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro also work well. Feel free to experiment with flavors that excite you!
For a balanced garlic and lemon taste, use fresh ingredients. Fresh lemon juice and zest give a bright flavor. Don’t skimp on garlic; it adds depth. Start with about 4 cloves, but feel free to add more if you love garlic!
Serving Suggestions
This shrimp pairs well with many sides. Serve it over fluffy rice or with crusty bread. A fresh salad or steamed veggies also make great sides.
For presentation, serve the shrimp in a warm bowl. Garnish it with lemon wedges and parsley. This adds color and makes it look fancy. Your guests will be impressed!
Variations
Dietary Modifications
You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Avoid soy sauce or any seasoning with gluten. Use fresh herbs and spices for flavor. Serve the shrimp over rice or a salad for a tasty meal.
For those who prefer vegetarian options, replace shrimp with firm tofu or chickpeas. Cook these in the same lemon garlic butter sauce. You will still enjoy that bright flavor!
Flavor Variations
To change the taste, try adding different herbs. Dill adds a fresh touch. Basil brings a sweet aroma. Both can make your dish unique.
You can also mix in other seafood. Scallops add a rich flavor, while lobster makes it fancy. These options give a new twist to your dish and impress your guests.
Custom Sauces
If you want to get creative, drizzle a creamy sauce over the shrimp. A simple garlic aioli works great. You can also whip up a spicy sauce with sriracha or chili paste for a kick.
To pair with the dish, try a wine-based sauce. Use white wine, garlic, and butter. Simmer until it thickens and then pour over the shrimp. This sauce adds depth and richness to the meal.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Methods
To keep leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp fresh, first cool it to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well for this. Make sure to use a container that seals tightly to avoid any air exposure. This helps keep the shrimp juicy and flavorful. Try to eat it within two days for the best taste.
Reheating Instructions
When you reheat shrimp, you want to keep it tender. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of butter to the pan. Once melted, add the shrimp. Heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring gently. You can also use a microwave, but do it in short bursts. Heat in 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
FAQs
Common Questions about Shrimp Cooking
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before cooking. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. This will help them cook evenly.
How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Look for a pink color and a firm texture. Shrimp should curl slightly and be opaque. This usually takes about 4-6 minutes of cooking time.
Recipe Adaptations
Can I replace butter with olive oil?
You can! Olive oil gives a nice flavor, but it won’t be as rich. Use the same amount of olive oil as butter for cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also try adding chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
Ingredient Substitutions
What can I use instead of fresh parsley?
You can use cilantro or basil as a substitute. Both add a fresh taste. Dried herbs work too, but use less since they are stronger.
How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?
Simply double or triple the ingredients. Keep the cooking times similar but check for doneness as you cook. This ensures all shrimp are perfectly cooked.
In this post, I shared how to make Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with ease. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips for perfecting the dish. Don’t forget the many variations and storage tips to keep it fresh. With simple flavors and quick steps, this dish can impress anyone. Embrace your cooking skills and enjoy this tasty meal at your next gathering. Happy cooking!
