Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delicious and elegant dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of succulent shrimp with the rich and aromatic flavors of garlic and butter.

This dish is not only incredibly tasty but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors of the shrimp to shine through, while the garlic butter sauce adds a touch of indulgence. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread, Garlic Butter Shrimp is sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

For this mouth-watering Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, tails on or off depending on your preference.
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter: Divided.
• 4 cloves garlic: Minced.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, for a hint of spice.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Freshly squeezed.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Chopped.
• 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Optional, for deglazing the pan and adding depth of flavor.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp

Clean the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold running water. If they are not already peeled and deveined, you can do so by removing the shell and making a shallow cut along the back to remove the vein. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.

Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes as well.

Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp

Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and starts to bubble, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.

Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your shrimp. Avoid overcooking as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.

Deglaze the Pan: If using white wine or chicken broth, add it to the skillet now. Allow it to simmer for about 1-2 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.

Finish the Sauce: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing the butter to melt and create a smooth, silky sauce that coats the shrimp.

Step 3: Garnishing and Serving

Add Fresh Parsley: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp. The parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the richness of the garlic butter sauce.

Serve Immediately: Garlic Butter Shrimp is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve the shrimp over a bed of pasta, rice, or alongside a piece of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, this dish can also be served as an appetizer or part of a seafood platter.

Chef’s Notes

Shrimp Selection: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp as they can become overcooked and rubbery when reheated.

Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If using salted butter, adjust the added salt accordingly.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to this dish. Minced garlic from a jar can be used in a pinch, but fresh garlic will provide the best flavor.

White Wine: If you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth is a great substitute that adds a similar depth of flavor. Ensure the broth is low sodium to avoid an overly salty dish.

Herbs: While parsley is traditional, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill to add a unique twist to the dish.

Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor and aroma of fresh lemon.

Nutrition Value

The nutrition values for Garlic Butter Shrimp can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a 4-serving recipe):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 18-22g
• Saturated Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 2-4g
• Fiber: 0-1g
• Sugars: 0-1g
• Cholesterol: 200-250mg
• Sodium: 400-600mg
• Vitamin A: 10-15% DV
• Vitamin C: 15-20% DV
• Calcium: 8-10% DV
• Iron: 10-12% DV

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a versatile and delightful dish that brings together simple, fresh ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Its quick preparation and elegant presentation make it a perfect choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

By following this recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Happy cooking!

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