Simple Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Serve up a delicious dinner with this easy garlic butter shrimp recipe!

This popular keyword, "garlic butter shrimp," is a versatile and flavorful choice for any seafood lover looking to prepare a simple yet impressive dish. Perfect for date night or casual gatherings, these succulent garlicky shrimp make a delightful addition to your meal repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 grams) large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by setting up a large skillet over medium heat. Heat the olive oil until shimmering, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes or until fragrant but not browned.

2. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, allowing them to combine well with the butter and garlic mixture.

3. Once the butter has melted and is creamy, reduce the heat slightly. Toss in the shrimp, spreading them evenly across the surface of the skillet. Allow the shrimp to cook undisturbed for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, flipping halfway through cooking time so that each side gets a chance to brown slightly.

4. While the shrimp is cooking, season liberally with salt and pepper according to your preference. After turning them over, continue cooking until they are opaque and fully cooked through. This should take around 5-7 minutes total cooking time for medium-sized shrimp.

Serving Suggestions & Tips

• Garlic butter shrimp pairs exceptionally well with a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus. The fresh vegetables add color and a contrasting texture that complements the richness of the garlic-butter sauce.
• If desired, top each portion with some finely chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness and presentation flair.
• For those who enjoy more substantial sides, consider serving this dish alongside rice or pasta. The creamy consistency of the garlic butter sauce can be spooned generously over the side dishes to enhance their flavor profile.

Cooking Time and Servings

This quick and simple recipe requires about 10 minutes of active cooking time, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal that doesn't take hours of preparation. It serves two people generously as an entree or three as part of a larger meal.

Why Garlic Butter Shrimp?

The appeal of garlic butter shrimp lies in its simplicity and versatility. The combination of fresh garlic, melted butter, and lemon adds an unbeatable flavor that elevates even the simplest ingredients into something truly special. This recipe allows you to experiment with different seasonings and pairings depending on what you have available, making it perfect for creative cooking enthusiasts.

Whether you're hosting a small gathering or just craving a tasty dinner at home, garlic butter shrimp is sure to satisfy both your taste buds and the crowds!

Tips for Success

• Cooking time varies depending on the size of the shrimp. Smaller shrimp might cook in as little as 3 minutes total.
• Ensure that you don’t overcook the garlic, which could lead to a bitter taste.
• Aim for just enough garlic so that its flavor shines through but doesn't overpower the dish.

Cooking garlic butter shrimp is not only about creating a delicious meal; it's also about enjoying every moment of preparing and serving it. From the initial chopping of fresh ingredients to the final plating, there’s something satisfying in each step that contributes to the overall success of your dinner.