Looking for a quick, tasty dish? Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is perfect for you! This meal takes just minutes to prepare and uses simple ingredients. Imagine juicy shrimp coated in rich garlic butter, bright lemon zest, and a hint of spice. Whether you’re new to cooking or a pro, I’ll guide you step-by-step. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that will impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Juice of 2 lemons
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
For this lemon garlic butter shrimp, you need just a few fresh ingredients. The star is the shrimp, which should be large and peeled. I always prefer using fresh shrimp for the best taste. The butter adds rich flavor, while garlic brings a lovely aroma.
Next, you need lemons. The zest and juice give this dish its bright, zesty flavor. If you like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes add a nice kick. Fresh parsley at the end adds color and freshness.
You can adjust the salt and pepper to fit your taste. Finally, serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side for extra zing. This simple list of ingredients makes a meal that feels fancy yet is easy to prepare. For the full recipe, check out the complete steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Melt butter and sauté garlic
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt slowly. Once melted, toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook it for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn. The garlic should smell amazing!
– Add shrimp and season
Now, raise the heat to medium-high. It’s time for the shrimp! Add 1 pound of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They will turn pink and opaque when done.
– Create lemon garlic butter sauce
Once the shrimp are ready, add the rest of the butter. This is 2 more tablespoons. Next, add the lemon zest from 1 lemon and the juice from 2 lemons. Stir everything together. As the butter melts, it creates a delicious sauce. Cook for an extra minute. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Fold in 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve right away with lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.
For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Selecting Fresh Shrimp
When choosing shrimp, look for firmness. Fresh shrimp should feel meaty in your hand. They should also have a clean, ocean-like smell. Avoid any shrimp that smell fishy or sour. I recommend wild-caught shrimp over farm-raised. Wild-caught shrimp often taste better and can be more sustainable.
Cooking Tips
Be careful not to overcook your shrimp. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side. If you cook them too long, they can become tough. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp right away. This dish tastes best fresh off the stove. Pair it with side dishes like rice or a green salad. These sides will balance the rich flavors of the shrimp. For a zesty touch, add lemon wedges on the side. You can find the full recipe above to help you create this meal.
Variations
Spice It Up
To add some kick, you can mix in different spices or herbs. Try paprika or cayenne for a smoky flavor. You can also add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant taste. If you crave heat, use hot sauce. A few dashes can transform this dish. Just remember to start small and taste as you go.
Additional Ingredients
You can make this dish even more colorful and nutritious. Adding vegetables makes it hearty and vibrant. Spinach wilts nicely and adds a lovely green color. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness and complement the shrimp well. You might also serve the shrimp over pasta or rice. This makes a complete meal, filling and satisfying. For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp 🦐.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
After you make Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp, store any leftovers in a tight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to two days. This helps keep the flavors fresh. To reheat, warm it gently in a pan over low heat. Stir often to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the shrimp cool down completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
To thaw frozen shrimp, place it in the fridge overnight. If you need it quickly, run the bag under cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, reheat it in a pan. This keeps it juicy and delicious. For more detailed instructions, check out the Full Recipe.
FAQs
How Do You Make Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp?
To make Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp, follow these steps:
1. First, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Next, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Make sure it doesn’t burn.
3. Then, turn the heat up to medium-high and add the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for some heat.
4. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque.
5. Once the shrimp are cooked, add the remaining butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
6. Let the butter melt and create a sauce for about a minute.
7. Finally, remove from heat and fold in chopped parsley for freshness. Serve right away with lemon wedges.
What Can I Serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp?
You can pair Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with many side dishes. Here are some tasty ideas:
– Rice: White or brown rice soaks up the sauce well.
– Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or linguine for a filling meal.
– Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch.
– Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the garlic butter sauce.
– Vegetables: Steamed asparagus or broccoli complement the dish beautifully.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Here are some tips:
– Thawing: Thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.
– Cooking Time: Frozen shrimp may need a minute longer to cook than fresh shrimp.
– Quality: Ensure the shrimp are of good quality, whether fresh or frozen. Look for firm shrimp with no off smells.
Check out the Full Recipe for all the details you need to make this simple and flavorful meal!
This article covered how to make delicious lemon garlic butter shrimp. I shared the ingredients and step-by-step cooking guide. Fresh shrimp choices and cooking tips help you succeed. I also offered storage advice and potential variations to try.
In conclusion, this dish is easy, quick, and full of flavor. Enjoy your cooking adventures and impress your guests!
