Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Savory and Simple Recipe

If you love quick and tasty meals, you need to try this Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe. It’s simple, savory, and bursting with flavor. I’ll guide you through the key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips to get your shrimp perfectly cooked every time. Plus, I’ll share delicious variations you can try. Let’s dive in and make an impressive dish that will wow your family or friends!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

To make Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp, you need a few key items. Here’s what to gather:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

– Lemon wedges for serving

These ingredients create a rich and zesty flavor. The shrimp soak up the garlic and lemon, making them taste amazing.

Optional Add-Ins

You can spice up your dish with a few optional items. Consider these fun add-ins:

– Cherry tomatoes for sweetness

– Spinach for added nutrition

– A splash of white wine for depth

These extras can change the dish slightly. They add color and flavor, making it even better.

Suggested Sides for Serving

To complete your meal, pair your shrimp with the right sides. Here are some tasty options:

– Steamed rice for a filling base

– Garlic bread to soak up the sauce

– A fresh green salad for crunch

These sides balance the rich shrimp. They round out the meal and make it even more satisfying. You can find the full recipe to get started right away!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

– Lemon wedges for serving

Make sure your shrimp are cleaned and ready to go. Mince the garlic and zest the lemon. This prep makes cooking easier and faster.

Cooking Process

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant, but not brown.

Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes. Do not stir them right away. Watch them turn pink on one side.

After that, flip the shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are fully pink and opaque. While they cook, squeeze in the lemon juice and add the zest. Stir gently to coat all the shrimp in the lemony goodness.

Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

Once the shrimp are done, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top for color and flavor.

Serve the shrimp right away. Pair them with lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy this dish with some rice, pasta, or a crisp salad to make it a full meal. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

To cook shrimp just right, follow these steps:

– Use large shrimp for a nice bite.

– Always thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.

– Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook evenly.

– Cook shrimp in a single layer in the pan. This ensures they cook well.

– Don’t crowd the pan. If you add too many shrimp, they’ll steam instead of sear.

When you cook shrimp, watch them closely. They only need a few minutes on each side. As they cook, they turn pink. Once they look pink and opaque, they are done. Remove them from heat right away to avoid overcooking.

Flavor Enhancements

To amp up the flavor, try these tips:

– Add a splash of white wine when cooking. This gives a nice depth.

– Include fresh herbs like thyme or basil for added flavor.

– For a bit of heat, sprinkle in more red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.

– A drizzle of olive oil can add a nice richness too.

You can also finish the dish with a sprinkle of lemon zest. This gives a fresh burst of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient, here are some swaps:

– Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option.

– Swap fresh parsley with fresh cilantro or dill for a new twist.

– If you don’t have lemon, lime juice works well too.

– For garlic lovers, you can add garlic powder for an extra kick.

These substitutions keep your dish tasty while allowing for flexibility in your kitchen. For the full recipe, check out the recipe section!

Variations

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

You can turn Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp into a tasty pasta dish. Cook your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine. Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce from the pan. The butter and lemon juice create a wonderful sauce that clings to the noodles. Top with extra parsley and some grated cheese for added flavor. This dish is a quick meal that feels fancy!

Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Tacos

Make tacos with your shrimp for a fun twist. Use warm corn or flour tortillas. Fill each tortilla with shrimp and drizzle with the garlic butter sauce. Add fresh toppings like cabbage, avocado, or salsa for crunch and flavor. A squeeze of extra lemon juice brightens each bite. These tacos are perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.

Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

For a smoky flavor, try grilling the shrimp. Marinate the shrimp in the lemon garlic butter sauce for about 30 minutes. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, leaving space between each piece. Grill the skewers on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. This method gives the shrimp a nice char and enhances the flavors. Serve with a fresh salad or over rice for a delightful meal.

You can find the full recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp to get started!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the shrimp cool down first. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure to cover the shrimp well to prevent air from getting in. Store the container in the fridge. Your shrimp will stay fresh for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheating is easy. You can use a pan or the microwave. If you use a pan, heat it over low to medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to keep it moist. For the microwave, place the shrimp in a safe dish and cover it. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This keeps the shrimp from getting tough.

Freezing Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

You can also freeze the shrimp if you want to save some for later. First, let the cooked shrimp cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. They can stay frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw the shrimp in the fridge overnight. Reheat them gently to enjoy their flavor again. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe link.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook shrimp?

Cooking shrimp is quick and easy. It usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. You cook them until they turn pink. If they curl into a C shape, they are done. Overcooking makes them tough. Keep an eye on them while they cook!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just thaw them first. To thaw, place them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. After that, peel and devein them if needed. Frozen shrimp can taste just as good as fresh ones. They are a great time-saver!

What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp?

You have many options for sides! Here are some ideas:

– Cooked rice or quinoa

– Pasta with olive oil or lemon

– Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus

– A fresh green salad

– Crusty bread for dipping in the sauce

Each of these pairs well with the rich flavors of the shrimp. You can mix and match to fit your meal. Don’t forget to check the Full Recipe for details!

In this blog post, we covered how to make lemon garlic butter shrimp. We discussed main ingredients, optional add-ins, and sides that pair well. You learned the step-by-step cooking process, plus tips for perfect shrimp. We shared delicious variations, from pasta to tacos. Lastly, I outlined storage tips for leftovers and answered common questions.

Enjoy crafting this dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! You can make this meal your own. Happy cooking!

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

Indulge in this delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe that's quick and easy to make in just 15 minutes! Fresh shrimp are sautéed with garlic, zesty lemon, and rich butter, creating a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this flavorful shrimp will impress your taste buds. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your cooking game!

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Ingredients

  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

 

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side without stirring until the shrimp turn pink.

Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

While the shrimp are cooking, add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, stirring to combine and coat the shrimp evenly.

Once the shrimp are fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4