How to Make Delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a popular dish that has been capturing the hearts of food enthusiasts around the globe. This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of garlic's pungent flavor and the richness of melted butter creates a mouthwatering dish that pairs well with various sides such as steamed rice or a fresh salad.

For this recipe, you will need:

1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking time: Approximately 20 minutes. Number of servings: 4.

Step-by-Step Guide

To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant and light golden brown.

Once done, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in paprika and salt to taste. Pour this mixture over the shrimp on the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley over the cooked garlic butter shrimp before serving. This adds a pop of color as well as an additional burst of freshness.

Health Benefits

Garlic is known for its numerous health benefits, including improving heart health and supporting immune function. Shrimp are also rich in protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D, making this dish not only delicious but beneficial for overall health as well.

Heart Health: Garlic contains antioxidants which can help reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure.
Blood Clot Prevention: The sulfur compounds in garlic have been shown to inhibit platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of clots forming inside your arteries or veins.
Boosting Immunity: Garlic has antiviral properties which can help fight off colds and flu more effectively.
Bone Health: The calcium content in shrimp contributes to stronger bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Variations and Substitutions

If you want to vary this dish up a bit, consider adding some fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These would pair beautifully with the garlic flavor. You could also try incorporating additional spices such as cumin or chili powder for a spicier kick.

For those who prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can reduce the amount of butter used slightly and use olive oil instead. This won't significantly change the taste but will help in reducing some calories.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp

Make sure your shrimp are well cleaned; this ensures better quality flavor when cooking.
The longer you let the garlic sauté, the stronger and more aromatic it will become. But be careful not to burn it!
If possible, use fresh garlic as opposed to pre-minced garlic for a richer flavor experience.

Garlic butter shrimp is not just about cooking; it's also about presentation. Serve this dish with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Accompany it with a fresh green salad for an extra burst of freshness and color on your plate.

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

Total Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
Protein: About 18g
Fat: Around 14g (including healthy fats from the butter)
Sodium: Depending on how much salt you add, it can range between 300-700mg per serving.

This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It's perfect for those looking for quick yet satisfying meals that don't require too many steps or ingredients. So why not give it a try today? Your taste buds are sure to thank you!