How to Make a Delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Garlic butter shrimp, a classic dish that has been loved by many for its simplicity and versatility. This recipe is simple enough for beginners but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for special occasions or just an everyday treat. In this article, we will walk you through how to prepare this delicious garlic butter shrimp in your kitchen.

Ingredients required:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6-8 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Cooking time: Approximately 15 minutes.
Number of servings: 4

Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic Butter Shrimp

To start, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This temperature will ensure that the shrimp cooks evenly and remains juicy.

In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it melts, add in the minced garlic cloves. Stir continuously until you start to smell the aroma of garlic - this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Garlic should be slightly golden but not browned; if cooked too long, it can burn and become bitter.

Once the butter is melted and fragrant, sprinkle in the dried oregano and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir to combine everything well.

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet carefully so that they do not break apart during stirring. The shrimp should be covered by the garlic butter mixture; if necessary, you may need to reduce heat slightly or cook them in batches. Cook until the shrimp turn opaque and pink - this usually takes about 3-4 minutes per batch.

While the shrimp are cooking, you can also drizzle olive oil over them for an extra burst of flavor. Olive oil not only adds moisture but also complements the garlic butter well. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.

Tips and Variations

Tip: If you prefer a little more kick in your dish, feel free to add some hot sauce or chili flakes. This will give it that extra heat without changing much else about the recipe.

• If you're serving this as part of a meal, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced and healthy dinner.
• For those who love garlic, there's no reason not to use more. However, remember that too much can overpower the dish.

Variations:

1. Add some diced red bell pepper or corn kernels for color and texture contrast when serving alongside the shrimp.
2. For a creamier version of garlic butter shrimp, try adding heavy cream towards the end of cooking. This will create a rich sauce that coats every piece of shrimp beautifully.

Dish Preparation and Serving Suggestions

Once all batches are done (or if you cooked them in one go), remove from heat immediately after the shrimp turn pink. Garnish with lemon slices, which not only look appealing but also add a tangy contrast to the richness of garlic butter shrimp.

Serving hot off the skillet ensures that the flavors remain vibrant and intact. You can serve this dish alongside some cooked rice or pasta for a full meal. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed as part of an antipasto platter with other cold cuts like prosciutto or salami.

Conclusion

Making garlic butter shrimp is more than just preparing a simple seafood dish; it's about bringing together the best ingredients and techniques to create something truly special. By following these steps carefully, you can achieve perfect results every time. Whether you're hosting friends over for dinner or simply looking forward to a home-cooked meal yourself, this recipe promises not only satisfaction but also joy in its preparation.