Here’s a quick and flavorful recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp, a simple yet delicious dish that can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or over pasta for a satisfying meal.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another minute, allowing the shrimp to soak up the flavors. Stir in fresh lemon juice.
- Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the garlic butter shrimp over pasta, rice, or quinoa.
- Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping in the garlic butter sauce.
Tips and Variations
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: For extra heat, use more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Garlic Lovers: Add more garlic if you want a stronger garlic flavor.