Garlic butter shrimp recipe

Garlic butter shrimp is a dish that embodies the simplicity and elegance of Mediterranean cuisine, with its rich, savory flavors and quick preparation time making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and creamy butter creates a sauce that coats the seafood perfectly, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that elevates the dish to new heights. This versatile recipe can be served as a main course, an appetizer, or even as a component in more complex meals, making it a staple in many households. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal, garlic butter shrimp is a must-try dish that promises to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 lb large shrimp (16-20 count size), peeled, deveined, and tails removed if desired
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2-3 teaspoons minced garlic (use more if you love garlic!)
• The juice of one lemon
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Place the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, tilt the skillet to ensure the butter covers the entire surface.

2. Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

3. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

4. Stir in Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice and any remaining butter in the skillet. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Garnish with Parsley: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or as an appetizer.

Top Tips

1. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for this recipe. Avoid using pre-minced garlic from a jar, as it lacks the depth of flavor that fresh garlic provides.

2. Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp (16-20 count size) for the best results. This size ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and retain their succulent texture.

3. Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so monitor their color closely. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat to prevent overcooking.

4. Add a Zest: Use a zester or microplane to zest the lemon before juicing it. This adds an extra layer of citrus flavor to the dish.

5. Experiment with Herbs: While parsley is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or basil to add unique flavors to your garlic butter shrimp.

6. Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair your garlic butter shrimp with garlic bread for a satisfying meal that combines the best of both worlds.

Variations

1. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your garlic butter shrimp a spicy kick.

2. Herby Shrimp: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil into the garlic butter sauce for added depth.

3. Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce or ginger to the garlic butter sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.

4. Creamy Sauce: Mix in some heavy cream or Greek yogurt to create a creamy garlic butter sauce.

5. Mediterranean Style: Serve the garlic butter shrimp with a side of olives, capers, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

6. Seafood Medley: Combine garlic butter shrimp with other seafood like scallops or mussels for a seafood medley.

Nutritional Guide

Additional Nutritional Notes: Garlic butter shrimp is a good source of protein and vitamin D. The dish is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in fat, making it a satisfying meal without being overly heavy. The lemon juice adds a burst of citrus flavor while also providing some vitamin C. This recipe is versatile enough to be adapted to various dietary needs by adjusting the amount of butter or adding more herbs for flavor without compromising on nutritional value.