Quick Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe with Lemon
Shrimp lovers, rejoice! This Quick Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe with Lemon is a culinary delight that combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavors of garlic and butter, brightened by a splash of fresh lemon juice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help the shrimp sear beautifully.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow it to sizzle, but be careful not to let it brown.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until fully cooked.
Step 5: Add Lemon
Once the shrimp are cooked, add the lemon juice and lemon zest to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently to ensure the shrimp are well-coated in the garlic butter sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Shrimp Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for this dish. Avoid pre-minced garlic to achieve the best flavor.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice will enhance the taste significantly compared to bottled lemon juice. The zest adds a lovely aromatic quality to the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This garlic butter shrimp pairs beautifully with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers when sautéing the garlic.
- Herb Alternatives: If parsley isn’t your favorite, feel free to use cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Butter Alternatives: For a healthier version, substitute half of the butter with olive oil.
Food Photography Ideas
Capture the essence of this dish by showcasing the vibrant pink of the shrimp against the golden garlic butter sauce. Consider photographing the dish in natural light to highlight its freshness. An overhead shot garnished with parsley and lemon wedges will make it even more enticing.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your meal, pair this garlic butter shrimp with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing lemonade or sparkling water with lemon will complement the flavors beautifully.
Further Reading and Resources
Explore more seafood recipes and cooking techniques to expand your culinary repertoire. Check out these related articles:
- How to Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time
- The Best Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Essential Cooking Tools for Seafood Lovers
Indulge in this Quick Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe with Lemon, and let the flavors transport you to a coastal paradise. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations with friends and family, and encourage them to explore the world of flavors in their kitchens. Happy cooking!
