Garlic Butter Shrimp is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish, perfect for a quick dinner or an appetizer. The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist. Here’s a classic recipe:
Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, but not browned.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Finish with Butter and Lemon:
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice to the skillet. Toss the shrimp in the butter sauce until they’re fully coated and the butter has melted into the shrimp.
- Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs well with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or even a light salad.
- You can also serve it over a bed of sautéed spinach or as a topping for a risotto.
Enjoy this quick and tasty dish! Let me know if you’d like more serving ideas or variations.