Irresistible Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe for 2

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its buttery richness and aromatic garlic. Picture creamy shrimp swimming in a golden pool of melted garlic butter, ready to make your dining experience unforgettable. It’s a culinary hug that warms your soul and ignites your palate, perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply indulging on a quiet night in.

Remember the time you tried to be fancy and ended up ordering shrimp at that overpriced restaurant? You thought you’d treat yourself, but then the waiter brought out a plate of what looked like sad little sea creatures. Fear not! With this Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe in your arsenal, you’ll never have to settle for anything less than spectacular. Whether it’s date night or just a Tuesday, this dish promises to deliver bold flavors and happy memories.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well; just ensure they’re peeled and deveined for ease of cooking.

• Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for that rich flavor; you can substitute with plant-based butter if desired.

• Fresh Garlic: The star of the show! Use fresh cloves for maximum aroma and flavor; garlic powder won’t do here.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the butter.

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley provides color and a hint of herbaceousness; it’s like confetti for your plate!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; don’t forget to taste as you go!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed before moving on. A trusty skillet will be your best friend during this process.

Step 2: Melt That Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt about four tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it warm up until it’s shimmering but not browned—no one likes burnt butter unless you’re trying to make “charcoal shrimp.”

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Once the butter is melted and fragrant (your kitchen should smell like heaven), add about four minced garlic cloves. Sauté them gently until they’re golden brown—this usually takes about one minute. Watch carefully though; burnt garlic is not cute!

Step 4: Toss in the Shrimp

Add one pound of peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet with the buttery garlic goodness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque—about three minutes per side should do it.

Step 5: Squeeze Some Lemon

When your shrimp are cooked perfectly, turn off the heat and drizzle in two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Give everything a good toss to coat those lovely shrimp with that luscious garlic butter.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for that pop of green! Transfer your Garlic Butter Shrimp onto plates or serve it family-style right from the skillet—it looks mouthwateringly good either way.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite while basking in your culinary glory!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by melting the garlic butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the shrimp until they turn pink, then toss in your favorite veggies while the pasta cooks. This sequence ensures everything is ready at the same time and bursting with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or turkey if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika or add a splash of lemon juice for extra zing. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate your dish even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover garlic butter shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent rubbery shrimp, adding a bit of water or broth to keep moisture.

I remember the first time I made garlic butter shrimp for my friends; their faces lit up like Christmas morning! It was a hit, and now they all want me to be their personal chef.

FAQs:

What is the best way to cook Garlic Butter Shrimp?

To cook Garlic Butter Shrimp, start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add butter and minced garlic, allowing them to sizzle together for a minute. Then, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs and a splash of lemon juice just before serving. This method ensures that your shrimp are juicy and packed with flavor.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp. Make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a few minutes. Thawing allows the shrimp to cook evenly and absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce better.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it over pasta or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also complement this dish nicely, adding balance and nutrients to your meal. Choosing sides that enhance the garlic butter flavor will elevate your dining experience.

How can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp healthier?

To make Garlic Butter Shrimp healthier, consider using less butter or substituting olive oil for a lighter option. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini boosts nutrition without sacrificing taste. You can also reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe while still enjoying all the flavors that garlic and herbs provide.

Conclusion for Garlic Butter Shrimp:

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. By following simple steps, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to make. Remember to choose fresh ingredients and pair your shrimp with delicious sides like pasta or vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. With its rich buttery sauce infused with garlic, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this savory dish any night of the week!

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Garlic Butter Shrimp

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• Author: Sara
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and delectable dish that brings together tender shrimp bathed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for any night of the week. Serve over pasta, rice, or alongside fresh vegetables to create a complete and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients by thawing frozen shrimp if needed.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until shimmering.
3. Add minced garlic to the butter and sauté until golden brown (about 1 minute).
4. Toss in the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque (about 3 minutes per side).
5. Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice; toss to coat.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. - If desired, substitute olive oil for butter for a lighter version. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.