Garlic butter shrimp served in a black ceramic dish, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a lemon wedge, on a wooden serving board.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

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How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp: A Quick and Healthy Dinner Recipe

When it comes to preparing a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner, garlic butter shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that’s hard to beat. Bursting with juicy, tender shrimp infused with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or a special dinner for guests, garlic butter shrimp is a versatile recipe that pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe that’s ready in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp

To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need a handful of fresh, simple ingredients:

  • 1 pound of shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off depending on preference)
  • 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter (or olive oil for a lighter version)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  2. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. If using olive oil, heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.
  2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle with parsley.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges.
  2. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Garlic butter shrimp served in a black ceramic dish, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a lemon wedge, on a wooden serving board.
A bowl of perfectly cooked garlic butter shrimp, garnished with fresh basil and lemon, ready to be served as a quick and healthy dinner option.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic butter shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

  • Over rice: Steamed white or brown rice absorbs the flavorful garlic butter sauce perfectly.
  • With pasta: Toss the shrimp with spaghetti or linguine for a simple shrimp scampi.
  • On a salad: Serve over a bed of arugula or spinach for a light, refreshing dinner.
  • With crusty bread: Use bread to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Healthy: Packed with lean protein, this dish is low in carbs and full of nutrients.
  3. Customizable: You can add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or swap parsley for cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp

  • Use fresh shrimp: If possible, opt for fresh shrimp over frozen for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to suit your taste.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbs: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g

Make It Your Own

Garlic butter shrimp is a versatile base recipe that you can customize to your liking:

  • Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth for a more robust sauce.
  • Toss in cherry tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrition.
  • Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Conclusion

Garlic butter shrimp is a must-try dinner recipe that checks all the boxes: quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to just reheating the shrimp to prevent overcooking.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.

4. Can I freeze garlic butter shrimp?
It’s best to freeze cooked shrimp separately from the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with fresh butter and garlic.

5. What wine pairs well with garlic butter shrimp?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.