Quick & Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a deliciously simple yet impressive dish that can be prepared quickly for any occasion. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner party or simply craving some quick and tasty seafood, this recipe delivers on flavor without requiring too much effort. Today we’re going to explore how easy it is to prepare this favorite dish at home.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Lemon slices for garnish
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

In a large pan or skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.

Note: Garlic burns easily, so keep an eye on it as you stir gently to avoid burning.

Once your garlic is ready, toss in the shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes each side until they turn bright pink and are fully cooked through. The internal temperature should be at least 145°F (63°C).

Remember: Overcrowding the pan can cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear properly, which might affect their texture.

Taste & Adjust:

Salt and pepper the garlic butter shrimp to your liking. If you prefer a bit more heat, add red pepper flakes at this stage. Stir in lemon slices for an extra zesty kick. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Optional Variations

2. You can replace butter with olive oil for a heartier flavor and a lighter feel.
4. Add some mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix for added color and texture. Cook them along with the shrimp for a delightful variation on the classic dish.

Storage & Serving Suggestions:

This dish can be served hot, right out of the pan, or it can be cooled down and stored in an airtight container inside your refrigerator. It lasts up to three days and is perfect for lunchboxes or picnics.

To reheat the garlic butter shrimp, simply warm it gently over low heat until heated through. Avoid boiling as this may make them tough.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 416 per serving (approx.)
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fat: 18g
Sodium: 200mg

Tips for Success:

• Ensure your shrimp are fresh and thawed properly before cooking. Frozen shrimp should be completely thawed out in the fridge overnight.
• Cooking time can vary depending on the size of your shrimp, so keep checking them as they cook to ensure they don't overcook.
• A high-quality garlic clove will give this dish a much more pronounced flavor than regular grocery store garlic. Consider using whole cloves rather than pre-minced ones for best results.

Conclusion:

Garlic butter shrimp is not just a quick and easy meal; it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients based on your preference or what you have in stock. Its simplicity makes it accessible to cooks of all levels while delivering rich flavors that will impress any dinner guest.

Cooking this dish can be an enjoyable process, and the results are always satisfying. So next time you're looking for something simple yet impressive to serve up, consider making garlic butter shrimp. Your taste buds won’t regret it!