Ready for a dish that combines bright flavors with a quick prep time? This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is here to impress! I’ll guide you through simple steps to create a tasty meal that bursts with zest. You only need a few ingredients, making it easy even for beginners. Let’s dive in and whip up a dish that will have your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– Grated zest of 1 lemon
– Freshly squeezed juice of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your desired spice level)
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– Thin lemon slices (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap large shrimp for smaller ones if needed. If you want less fat, use olive oil instead of butter. You can also use garlic powder if you lack fresh garlic. Fresh parsley can be replaced with dried parsley. For a tangy twist, try lime juice instead of lemon juice.
Nutritional Information
This dish serves four. Each serving has about 250 calories. It contains 15 grams of fat and 22 grams of protein. The meal is low in carbs, making it a great option for many diets. The shrimp provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while garlic and lemon add vitamins and flavor. Enjoy this dish knowing it’s tasty and nourishing! For the complete cooking process, check the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, gather all your ingredients. You will need shrimp, butter, garlic, lemon, and spices. Make sure the shrimp is peeled and deveined. This saves time. Mince the garlic finely. Zest the lemon and squeeze the juice. Chop the parsley for garnish.
Cooking Directions
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until the oil shimmers.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir them for about 1 minute. This helps the garlic smell great.
3. Put the shrimp in the skillet. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink on one side.
4. Flip the shrimp carefully. Add the butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp is fully cooked.
5. Remove the skillet from heat. Toss in the parsley for a fresh taste.
6. Serve the shrimp right away. Add thin lemon slices on top for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish goes well with rice or crusty bread. You can also serve it over pasta for a heartier meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Enjoy this quick and tasty recipe with family and friends! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
How to Choose Fresh Shrimp
When picking shrimp, look for a few key signs. Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy. The shells should be firm, and the flesh should be translucent. If you see black spots, avoid those shrimp. Always buy shrimp with no ice glaze. This means they are fresh and not frozen. If possible, buy shrimp from a trusted fishmonger or market. Check for local sources to get the best quality.
Perfecting the Garlic Flavor
Garlic brings a lot of flavor to this dish. To get the best taste, use fresh garlic cloves. Mince them finely for a stronger flavor. Sauté the garlic in olive oil before adding shrimp. Cook it just until fragrant, about one minute. If you cook it too long, it can burn and taste bitter. If you want a more intense garlic flavor, you can add some garlic powder along with the fresh garlic.
Serving Temperature Recommendations
This shrimp dish tastes best when served hot. As soon as you finish cooking, plate it right away. Letting it sit can make the shrimp tough. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and reheat them gently. Use a low heat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a bit of lemon juice to keep the flavor fresh. Enjoy this dish with a side of warm bread or over rice for a complete meal. For the full recipe, check out the section above.
Variations
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Pasta
You can turn lemon garlic butter shrimp into a hearty meal by adding pasta. Cook your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine. Once the shrimp is ready, toss it with the cooked pasta. The sauce clings to the noodles. This makes for a tasty and filling dish. You can add a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Spicy Cajun Style Lemon Shrimp
If you want a kick, try the spicy Cajun style. Add Cajun seasoning when cooking the shrimp. A teaspoon or two will do. This spice mix brings heat and depth. The butter and lemon balance the spices well. You’ll love the bold flavors in each bite.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Boost nutrition by adding veggies. Bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach work great. Sauté them with the garlic for a few minutes. Then add the shrimp as usual. This not only adds color but also fiber and vitamins. Your meal becomes more balanced and healthy.
For more delicious ideas, check out the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp, let any leftovers cool. Place them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to two days. Make sure to seal it well to keep the shrimp fresh. If you want to save them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently to warm the shrimp evenly. You can also microwave them, but do it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. These shrimp can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, defrost them in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your meal even after a few days!
FAQs
How can I make this recipe more spicy?
To add heat, increase the red pepper flakes. Start with 1 teaspoon. If you want more spice, try adding ½ teaspoon more. You can also use fresh chopped chili peppers for extra kick. Adjust to your taste, so it’s just right for you.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them first. Put the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. This method keeps the shrimp firm. Drain and pat them dry before cooking. This helps avoid a watery dish.
What to serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Lemon garlic butter shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:
– Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice soaks up the sauce well.
– Pasta: Toss with spaghetti or linguine for a hearty dish.
– Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition.
– Salad: A light salad with greens and a lemon vinaigrette can balance the meal.
Feel free to explore these options to find a match you love! For the full recipe, check the instructions above.
This recipe guide covered all you need for a tasty lemon garlic butter shrimp dish. We discussed each ingredient, substitutions, and key nutritional info. I shared simple prep steps and cooking directions, plus tips to enhance garlic flavor. You learned about food variations and how to store leftovers properly.
Shrimp is versatile and delicious. By following these steps, you can enjoy a great meal! Keep experimenting with flavors and enjoy your cooking journey.
