Here’s a detailed recipe for Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp, an exquisite yet straightforward dish that can be whipped up quickly for any occasion.
Ingredients:
Gather about 1 pound (450 grams) of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thoroughly thawed. You’ll also need 3-4 tablespoons of butter, 4-6 cloves of garlic (depending on your preference), 1 large lemon for zest and juice, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for some heat. Have some fresh parsley on hand for garnishing. If you like, include a bit of olive oil to mix with the butter for a different flavor profile.
Preparation:
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Thaw the shrimp if they are frozen and then pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a good sear rather than steaming the shrimp. Mince the garlic cloves finely; you want them to infuse the butter without overpowering the dish. Zest the lemon and then juice it; both zest and juice will be used to bring a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish. Finally, rinse, dry, and finely chop the parsley which will be used for garnish.
Cooking:
First, place a large skillet over medium heat. It should be large enough to accommodate the shrimp in a single layer. Add about 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for approximately 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant; be careful to not let it brown, as this can impart a bitter taste.
Once the garlic is fragrant, turn up the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. It’s crucial to avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp juicy and tender.
After the shrimp have cooked, add the remaining butter to the pan along with the freshly squeezed lemon juice. If you’ve chosen to add red pepper flakes, sprinkle them in now. Stir everything together, coating the shrimp in the lemony, garlicky butter sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you decided to use olive oil, you can mix it in at this point as well.
Finally, garnish the shrimp with the chopped parsley and a bit of lemon zest for an extra zing. Serve immediately while the flavors are vibrant and the shrimp are perfectly cooked.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it as an elegant appetizer, toss it with pasta for a hearty meal, or simply enjoy with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Whatever you choose, Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp is sure to delight the palate with its simple yet robust flavors.
