Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp is a simple and tasty dish that brings together juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and rich butter. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion!
Honestly, who doesn’t love shrimp swimming in buttery goodness? I like to serve it over pasta or rice, soaking up all that delicious sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal as they hold up well when cooked. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, frozen shrimp work just fine. Just be sure to thaw them properly. You can also substitute shrimp with scallops or small fish if preferred.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt in your dish. If you’re looking to lighten it up, use a good quality olive oil instead. Some people also enjoy coconut oil for a unique twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch (1/8 teaspoon equals one clove). If you’re a garlic lover, don’t hesitate to add extra cloves!
Lemon: Fresh lemons are key for zest and juice. If out of lemons, try using bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always best. Lime juice can be an excellent substitute too for a different zing.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness, but you can switch it up with chopped chives or even basil for a different flavor profile. Dried herbs work as well if that’s what you have on hand!
How Do I Cook Perfectly Tender Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll get tender and juicy results every time. The key is not to overcook them!
- Start with a hot skillet: Heat the olive oil and butter until shimmering. This helps sear the shrimp nicely.
- Avoid overcrowding: Cook the shrimp in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly. If you’re making a large batch, cook in two batches.
- Watch the color: Cook each side for about 2 minutes or until they turn pink and slightly curl. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
- Use lemon juice at the right time: Add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its fresh taste and avoid bitterness.
With these tips, your Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp should turn out deliciously every time!
Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 6-8 minutes for cooking, totaling around 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold running water. Once rinsed, use paper towels to pat them dry. This step is essential because it helps the shrimp sear nicely in the skillet.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Turn the heat to medium and let it melt. You want the oil to shimmer—this means it’s hot and ready for cooking.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. You want it to be fragrant but be careful not to let it brown or burn!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season them with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on one side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they turn pink and start to curl.
5. Finish Cooking and Add Flavor:
Turn the shrimp over and add the remaining butter, along with the lemon juice and zest. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes or until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque.
6. Combine and Serve:
Gently stir the shrimp in all the lovely lemon butter garlic sauce to coat them well. Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad!
This recipe yields tender shrimp infused with bright lemon flavor, rich butter, and aromatic garlic. Enjoy your meal, just like the stunning dish in the photo!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead of butter. It will change the flavor slightly but will still be delicious. For a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan butter or coconut oil.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of paprika or skip it altogether. For added spiciness, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes after cooking or serve with a spicy dipping sauce!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat with a splash of lemon juice to freshen up the flavors. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
