Imagine a dish so irresistible that it transforms your ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience, without hours of complicated preparation. This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is your ticket to culinary magic – a mouthwatering seafood sensation that combines the bright zestiness of lemon, the rich depth of butter, and the bold punch of garlic, all perfectly complementing succulent, tender shrimp. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises to elevate your meal game and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps ensure proper browning and prevents steaming.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper on both sides, creating a light even coating that will enhance the natural flavor of the seafood.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to become slightly foamy but not brown.
- Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side until they turn pink and develop a light golden color.
- Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until they are completely opaque and cooked through.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, allowing the citrus to deglaze the pan and create a flavorful sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and toss the shrimp to coat evenly with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
- Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and fresh flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking to achieve that beautiful golden sear and prevent steaming.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization.
- Watch Your Heat: Medium-high heat is crucial – too low, and your shrimp will steam; too high, and you'll burn the garlic and butter.
- Timing is Everything: Shrimp cook quickly. The moment they turn pink and opaque, they're done to prevent rubbery texture.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh garlic and lemon for the most vibrant flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic if possible.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce.Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 332kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 210mg
