Butter Garlic Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with rich butter and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe makes the most of simple ingredients to deliver a satisfying meal.
Shrimp is the star of the dish, offering a tender texture and subtly sweet flavor. Make sure they're peeled and deveined for the best experience. Butter provides richness and helps create a luscious sauce that clings to the shrimp. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning. Garlic adds an aromatic depth, infusing the dish with its unmistakable flavor. Lemon juice brings a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the butter. Parsley lends a fresh, herbaceous touch, enhancing the overall flavor. Finally, seasoning with salt and black pepper brings all the elements together perfectly.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a light meal. For something heartier, serve it over pasta or with a side of risotto. A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors wonderfully.
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to remove any residual shell fragments or grit. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear nicely in the skillet. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, stirring for about a minute until you can smell the wonderful aroma of garlic filling your kitchen.
Next, add the shrimp in a single layer. This ensures even cooking. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start turning pink and opaque. Flip each shrimp and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. The transformation is quick and magical—watch as they plump up and take on that beautiful color.
Once the shrimp are cooked, drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over them. This step is crucial as it not only adds flavor but also helps deglaze the pan, picking up all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp, and give everything a gentle toss to combine all the flavors. Serve immediately, preferably with crusty bread to soak up that irresistible buttery sauce.
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