This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp is a quick and tasty dish that makes your taste buds dance! With juicy shrimp, rich butter, and zesty lemon, it’s full of bright flavors.
You can whip this up in just 15 minutes! It’s perfect for a busy night or a special dinner. I love serving it over rice or pasta—every bite is a delightful treat! 🍤🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are a must for this dish. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, frozen works great too—just make sure to thaw them properly. To go meatless, try using mushrooms or tofu instead!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter can be substituted without losing flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its punchy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a decent alternative; just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Lemon: Fresh lemons provide the best taste; bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness. If lemon isn’t available, try lime for a different twist!
Red Pepper Flakes: They add a hint of heat, but feel free to skip them if you prefer milder flavors. Alternatively, paprika can give a smoky note without the heat.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky, but it’s simple with a few tips! You want to watch them closely as they cook. Here’s how:
- Start with dry shrimp; pat them with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely.
- Cook on medium heat to get a good sear without burning the garlic.
- They cook quickly! About 2-3 minutes on one side, and you’ll see them turn pink. Flip them over and keep cooking for another 1-2 minutes. Look for that nice, opaque finish.
- Remove from heat right when they’re done! They’ll continue to cook in the residual heat.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked lemon butter garlic shrimp every time!
Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes total. You’ll spend around 5-10 minutes prepping and cooking, and it’s ready to enjoy right away! It’s a speedy option for dinner or just a delightful treat anytime you crave a burst of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
First, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Then, season them lightly with salt and pepper for some added flavor.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter is bubbly but not burning—this will create a perfect base for your garlic!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; you want it to just start to turn golden!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add your prepared shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for about 2 minutes until they turn pink and start to curl; this tells you they’re cooking through.
5. Flip and Flavor:
Now, flip the shrimp over and squeeze in the lemon juice, sprinkle the lemon zest, and add the red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Toss in the remaining tablespoon of butter, too.
6. Finish Cooking:
Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the lemon butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque. They should look vibrant and glossy!
7. Add Freshness:
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with lemon slices for an extra decorator’s touch, then serve immediately. This lemon butter garlic shrimp pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy the delightful tastes!
Happy cooking! 🍤🍋
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper! You could also chop up some fresh jalapeños and toss them in with the garlic for an extra kick.
What Can I Use Instead of Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Coconut oil also works well and adds a unique flavor to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of lemon juice to freshen them up.