This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp is a bright and tasty dish that’s super quick to make! With juicy shrimp, buttery goodness, and a zesty lemon kick, it’s perfect for any seafood lover.
Who can resist shrimp swimming in garlic and lemon? I love serving it over pasta or rice. It makes dinner feel fancy without all the fuss. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing! 🍤✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for a satisfying bite. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp work perfectly—just thaw them before cooking. For a twist, you can substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken breast, though cooking times will vary.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the flavor without adding extra salt. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based butter or olive oil instead. I love using a mix of both butter and olive oil for a rich taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use less—about 1/8 teaspoon should do. I prefer fresh garlic because it gives the dish a nice aroma that makes you hungry!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is best for a bright flavor. You can substitute with lime juice in a pinch, but lemons bring a unique zest that complements shrimp well. Zest and juice can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for convenience.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. You can substitute it with cilantro for a slightly different taste or even skip it if you’re not a fan!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky since they cook so quickly. Follow these tips:
- Ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning. This helps them sear properly.
- Cook over medium heat; high heat may cause them to burn or cook too fast.
- Watch for coloring: shrimp will turn pink and opaque when done. This usually takes 2-4 minutes total.
By keeping a close eye and cooking in batches if necessary, you’ll achieve perfectly tender shrimp every time!
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 lemon, juice and zest
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Cooked rice or pasta, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Just gather your ingredients and get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This is important so they can sear nicely in the pan. Once they’re dry, season them lightly with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. You want the butter to be bubbly but not browned—this will give the shrimp a rich, savory flavor.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it—once it smells aromatic and is a light golden color, you’re ready for the next step!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to add the shrimp to the skillet. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking, and 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 up.
5. Add Lemon Flavor:
Carefully flip the shrimp over and add the remaining tablespoon of butter, along with the lemon juice and zest. If you’re up for a little heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the butter and lemon mixture.
6. Finish Cooking:
Let the shrimp cook for another 1-2 minutes, until they are fully cooked and beautiful coated in that delicious lemon butter sauce. Remember to keep stirring gently!
7. Combine with Parsley:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Toss in the chopped fresh parsley; it adds a lovely touch of color and freshness to your dish. Gently mix everything for an even distribution.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp immediately! Plate it up with cooked rice or pasta to soak up that amazing sauce. Don’t forget to add a few lemon slices for garnish, and enjoy every bite!
There you go! A delightful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your tasty Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work great! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Using a light olive oil adds a nice flavor while keeping it healthy!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you’d like more heat, consider adding extra crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. You could also try a pinch of cayenne pepper to ramp up the spice level.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp again.
