Introduction:
Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp is a simple, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. With the delightful combination of garlic, herbs, and butter, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help them cook evenly and sear nicely.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Make the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Combine and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, toss them in the garlic herb butter sauce, and season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon juice. Stir in the chopped parsley and basil, if desired. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Serve the garlic herb butter shrimp with a side of lemon wedges for an added burst of freshness.
Description:
Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp is a rich and savory dish with a perfectly balanced combination of tender shrimp, zesty garlic, fresh herbs, and a buttery sauce. The garlic and herbs infuse the shrimp with incredible flavor, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a simple green salad.
Tips:
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them, or they may become tough and rubbery. Watch for the color change from translucent to pink.
Customize the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, depending on your preference.
Use High-Quality Butter: Since butter is a key flavor in this dish, opt for a high-quality unsalted butter for the best taste.
Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
Spicy Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the butter sauce for extra heat.
Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp: Increase the amount of lemon juice and zest for a brighter, more citrus-forward flavor.
Garlic Herb Shrimp Pasta: Toss the cooked shrimp and garlic herb butter sauce with your favorite pasta for a delicious and complete meal.
Correction:
If your garlic butter sauce becomes too greasy or separates, try lowering the heat and stirring constantly to emulsify the sauce. You can also add a small amount of pasta water or a splash of broth to help bring everything together.
Enjoy:
Serve your garlic herb butter shrimp with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for guests, this garlic butter shrimp is sure to be a crowd favorite!
