This Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp is a tasty dish packed with garlic flavor and a zesty lemon kick. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and buttery, making it a treat for everyone!
Making this dish is so quick! I love serving it over pasta or rice for a fun twist. It always impresses my friends, and I might just be the hero of dinner night! 🦐✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish as they’re easy to cook and have great texture. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp work well too! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for the best results.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over salt levels. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead. However, the butter provides a rich flavor that complements the garlic and lemon.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers the best taste. If you’re short on time, garlic powder is a good substitute, but use less as it’s more concentrated. I don’t recommend jarred minced garlic, as it lacks freshness.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is key to this recipe. Bottled lemon juice is less flavorful and can alter the taste, so I highly recommend using fresh lemons. You can also try lime juice for a twist!
How Can I Cook the Shrimp to Perfection?
Cooking shrimp properly is essential to avoid a rubbery texture. The key is to cook them just until they are pink and opaque. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet. Medium-high heat is perfect for cooking shrimp quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use your timer! Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes.
- Once done, remove them from heat immediately. They will continue to cook slightly with residual heat.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked, tender shrimp bursting with flavor!
Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2-3 tbsp) + 2 lemon slices for garnish
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want something delicious without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to clean them. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will make them sear better in the pan. Season them lightly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika for flavor.
2. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter is melted and bubbling, indicating that it’s hot enough to cook the shrimp.
3. 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 start to turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to crowd the skillet; if necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
4. Add Garlic and Spices:
Flip the shrimp over carefully using tongs. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring gently so the garlic doesn’t burn. The shrimp should be fully cooked and no longer translucent.
5. Create the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the lemon juice into the skillet. Stir everything gently to ensure the shrimp are well-coated in the buttery lemon garlic sauce.
6. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp and toss gently to combine. Remove from heat, transfer the shrimp to a serving bowl or plate, and garnish with lemon slices for a fresh touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp immediately, ideally over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to enjoy the flavorful sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp! 🍤✨
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can work wonderfully in this dish! Make sure to thaw them completely beforehand. You can place them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil. However, keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change, as butter adds a rich creaminess to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking, adding a splash of lemon juice to freshen the flavors.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus for extra color and nutrition. Just sauté them in the pan with the shrimp, adjusting the cooking time as necessary based on the veggies you choose.
