Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delightful dish that marries the sweet, succulent flavor of shrimp with the rich, aromatic goodness of garlic and butter. This recipe is not just a feast for the palate; it’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or an impressive dinner party centerpiece. With its vibrant flavors and enticing aroma, Garlic Butter Shrimp is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe for its incredible flavor profile and simplicity. The buttery garlic sauce envelops the shrimp, creating a luscious coating that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those who want a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, this recipe fits perfectly within those guidelines, as it focuses on protein and healthy fats, leaving out the carbs.
Tips and Tricks
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If you only have frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Garlic: Don’t skimp on the garlic! Fresh minced garlic will provide a better flavor than garlic powder.
- Cooking Time: Be mindful of cooking time; shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Herbs: Enhancing your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate the flavors even further. Add them at the end for a burst of freshness.
Make Ahead Tips
You can make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just warm it up before adding the shrimp. If you’re meal prepping, you can also marinate the shrimp in advance; they can stay in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and zest to add a zesty brightness to the dish.
- Herbed Garlic Shrimp: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill to change the flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon for a pop of color and flavor. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Pairing Suggestions
A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with Garlic Butter Shrimp. For a cocktail option, consider a classic Mojito or a refreshing gin and tonic. Complement your meal with a side of garlic bread or a light pasta dish, and finish off with a lemon sorbet for dessert.
How to Store
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking. You can also freeze the shrimp in the butter sauce for up to a month; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or frying pan is essential for cooking the shrimp evenly.
- A mixing bowl for marinating the shrimp.
- A spatula or tongs for flipping the shrimp in the pan.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, swap the shrimp for large mushrooms like portobello or king oyster mushrooms and use vegan butter. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter. Ensure any additional sauces or seasonings are also free from allergens you wish to avoid.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, consider adding fresh seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the dish for added color and nutrition. In winter, you might like to incorporate hearty greens like spinach or kale to balance the richness of the garlic butter.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- What if I don’t have fresh garlic? You can substitute with garlic powder, but fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor.
- How can I tell when shrimp are done? They should be pink and opaque with a slight curve but not tightly curled.
How To Make Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delightful dish that marries the sweet, succulent flavor of shrimp with the rich, aromatic goodness of garlic and butter.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip the shrimp.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are pink and opaque all the way through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 246Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 270mgSodium 1151mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 26g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience that combines simplicity with gourmet flair. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to delight. With its quick preparation and adaptable nature, it’s a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Try it out and savor the wonderful blend of flavors that will keep you coming back for more!
