Introduction
Garlic butter shrimp is a quick and delicious dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and butter with succulent shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an impressive dish for guests. The combination of simple ingredients comes together in just a matter of minutes, making it a go-to favorite for seafood lovers.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
– Butter: 4 tablespoons
– Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
– Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
– Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
– Lemon: 1, juiced
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
Prep Time
The preparation for garlic butter shrimp takes about 10 minutes. This includes cleaning and deveining the shrimp and chopping the garlic and parsley.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for this recipe is approximately 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. Therefore, the total time from start to finish is around 15 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a perfect dish for a small gathering or family dinner.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps to achieve a nice sear when cooking. If the shrimp are not peeled and deveined, do this before proceeding.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with salt and pepper to season them evenly. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat if desired.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add a couple of tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
Step 4: Cook the Garlic
Add minced garlic to the melted butter in the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
Once the garlic is aromatic, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and start to curl. Flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
Step 6: Deglaze and Finish
If desired, add a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley to the skillet, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom for added flavor. Stir to combine everything well.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and serve the garlic butter shrimp immediately with crusty bread, over pasta, or with rice as preferred.
Notes
Tip 1: Shrimp Size
Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe. Adjust cooking time depending on the size to avoid overcooking.
Tip 2: Freshness
For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp when possible. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Tip 3: Adjusting Flavor
Feel free to customize the flavor by adding additional herbs like thyme or oregano, or by substituting olive oil for butter for a lighter version.
Tip 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Preparing Shrimp
Ensure that the shrimp is peeled and deveined before cooking. This helps in achieving a seamless cooking experience and enhances the flavor absorption.
Sautéing
Sauté shrimp over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear. This method retains moisture while giving the shrimp a delicious outer texture.
Flavoring with Garlic
Mince fresh garlic and add it to the pan just before the shrimp is fully cooked. This method releases the garlic’s aroma and flavor without burning it.
Using Butter
Integrate unsalted butter for a rich flavor. Adding it during the last minute of cooking creates a luxurious garlic butter sauce that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Serving Technique
Serve the shrimp immediately after cooking to enjoy the best texture and flavor. Pair it with fresh herbs or lemon for added freshness.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What type of shrimp is best for this dish?
Large shrimp or jumbo shrimp work best, as they hold up well during cooking and provide a satisfying bite.
Can I substitute the butter?
You can substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How can I tell when the shrimp is done cooking?
Shrimp will turn pink and opaque when cooked. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp?
Garlic butter shrimp pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the butter sauce.
Conclusion
The garlic butter shrimp recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that are both simple and sophisticated. It’s a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides and complements, making it an excellent choice for any meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Butter Pasta
Pair the shrimp with spaghetti or linguine tossed in garlic butter for a satisfying meal.
Zucchini Noodles
Serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option that still feels indulgent.
Steamed Rice
Accompany the shrimp with fluffy steamed rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Grilled Vegetables
Complement the dish with grilled vegetables such as asparagus or bell peppers for a healthy touch.
Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad pairs well with garlic butter shrimp, adding a fresh and crisp side.
Crusty Bread
Serve with crusty bread to enjoy all the flavorful garlic butter sauce left on your plate.
Quinoa Salad
Consider a quinoa salad with fresh herbs and lemon for a nutritious side that enhances the dish’s flavors.