This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp is a quick and zesty dish that’s bursting with flavor! The fresh shrimp are cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon for a delightful taste.
You can’t go wrong with this dish when you need dinner on the table fast! I love serving it over pasta or rice, and I often find myself licking the plate clean. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large or jumbo shrimp for this dish, as they hold up well in cooking. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimps work just fine—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal since it lets you control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could substitute olive oil, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best and gives a richer flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic in a jar, but fresh really makes a difference! A little goes a long way.
Lemon juice and zest: Fresh lemon is key for brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is a substitute, though it’s not quite as good. Consider adding a splash of white wine for added acidity if you’re without lemon.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice color and freshness. If you don’t have it on hand, cilantro or even green onions can work as an alternative or garnish.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky; you want them perfectly tender, not rubbery. Here’s how to ensure great results:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the shrimp quickly. This helps them cook evenly.
- Keep the heat medium to avoid burning the garlic while ensuring the shrimp cook through.
- Cook just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 minutes on each side. If they curl up tightly, they’re overcooked.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to give each shrimp some space.
With these tips, your shrimp will be perfectly cooked every time! Enjoy making this easy but impressive dish.
How to Make Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and cook. It’s super quick, perfect for a weeknight meal or a delicious treat on the weekend where you want minimal fuss but tons of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Lightly season the shrimp with salt and black pepper to bring out their flavor.
2. Melt the Butter:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt. This will create a lovely base for your shrimp and garlic.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little kick!). Sauté the mixture for about 30 seconds or until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic burn—it can quickly turn bitter!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they become pink and slightly golden. Then, flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are fully cooked through and opaque.
5. Add Lemon Flavor:
Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gently toss the shrimp in the sauce to coat them evenly, making every bite bursting with flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top, and give everything a final toss for freshness. Serve the shrimp immediately, and don’t forget those lovely lemon wedges on the side. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or even crispy bread to soak up all that delightful sauce!
Enjoy your flavorful and buttery lemon garlic shrimp! You’ll be sure to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you. 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes.
How Do I Store Leftover Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp?
To store leftovers, place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring they don’t overcook again.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper. You could also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick!
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!