This Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp is a quick and tasty dish bursting with flavor! With shrimp cooked in rich butter, zesty lemon, and a hint of garlic, it’s a delightful treat.
You can serve it over pasta, rice, or even just with some crusty bread. Honestly, I can’t resist dipping that bread into the buttery sauce—yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are a must for this dish for a satisfying bite. If you’re looking for a substitute, you could use scallops or even chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or vegan butter instead for a similar rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for a strong aroma and flavor. If you’re out of fresh, you can use garlic powder—just about 1/8 teaspoon will do, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is essential for brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh juice will always taste better. Consider using lime juice for a different twist!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. If you don’t have it, cilantro can work instead, or you can skip it altogether, but I wouldn’t recommend using dried parsley as it loses flavor.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is simple but requires attention. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Start with shrimp that are thawed if frozen. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Cook shrimp on medium heat. They cook quickly, typically in just 3-5 minutes total. Look for that pink color and an opaque center to know they are done.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Add the lemon juice and zest towards the end to maintain that fresh flavor.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have tender, juicy shrimp every time! Enjoy this easy yet delicious dish with your favorite sides!
Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for subtle heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. If you’re serving it with sides like pasta or rice, you’ll want to factor in that cooking time as well. Overall, it’s quick enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely in the pan. Lightly sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste, coating them evenly.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring gently, until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to let it brown.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Allow them to cook for about 2 minutes without moving them, then flip the shrimp over. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they are fully opaque and no longer translucent.
4. Add Lemon Flavors:
Once the shrimp are cooked through, stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix everything well until the butter melts and the shrimp are nicely coated with the buttery lemon sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices for an extra pop of flavor and freshness!
This Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping, over pasta for a hearty meal, or with steamed rice for a lighter option. Enjoy the bright, buttery flavors that are sure to please your palate!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for about 15-20 minutes in a sealed bag. Pat them dry before using to ensure a good sear.
What Can I Substitute for Butter to Make This Dairy-Free?
You can use olive oil or any plant-based butter alternative to maintain the richness of the dish. Coconut oil is another option, but it will add a slight coconut flavor, so use it according to your taste preferences.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or a dab of butter to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic while sautéing. You can also try adding minced jalapeños or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.