Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a classic and flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to make, yet feels indulgent and restaurant-quality. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish combines the sweetness of shrimp with the richness of butter, a punch of garlic, and the brightness of lemon. Whether served over pasta, rice, or simply alongside a fresh salad, it’s a versatile meal that can be adapted to suit your preferences.

Ingredients:

For the shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off depending on your preference)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the garlic butter sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced (adjust depending on how garlicky you like it)

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan (optional for extra flavor)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. Drying them will help them sear properly and avoid them becoming steamed. Season both sides of the shrimp generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Spice

Add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, stirring to combine. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 5: Toss the Shrimp in the Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce, making sure each shrimp is evenly coated with the buttery goodness. Cook for an additional minute or so, just to heat the shrimp through and allow them to soak up some of the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the shrimp with fresh chopped parsley and, if desired, grated Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy touch. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips and Variations:

• Add a Veggie Side: For a well-rounded meal, serve the shrimp alongside steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or roasted broccoli. You can also toss the shrimp and garlic butter sauce over pasta or rice.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp can be used as well. Just make sure to thaw them properly and dry them off before cooking.

• Garlic Lovers: If you’re a garlic lover, you can increase the amount of garlic to suit your taste. Roasted garlic would also add a richer flavor.

• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with this dish to complement the citrus and garlic flavors.

Why This Recipe Works:

• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes only about 20 minutes to make, which makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

• Simple Ingredients: The ingredients are pantry staples, and the shrimp cooks quickly, making this a simple yet elegant dish that feels much more complex than it really is.

• Versatility: You can easily customize the recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Add a touch of cream for a richer sauce, or a bit of white wine for added depth of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

Shrimp are high in protein and low in fat, making this a healthy and satisfying option. They’re also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health. The lemon and garlic not only brighten the flavor but also offer antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. And while butter adds richness, it’s used in moderation, so this dish can be enjoyed without guilt.

Conclusion:

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a versatile and mouthwatering dish that’s easy to make yet full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something impressive to serve guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes. The combination of tender shrimp, buttery sauce, and the freshness of lemon is a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation.