There's nothing quite as satisfying as a flavorful, quick, and easy to make meal. This lemon garlic butter shrimp recipe ticks all these boxes. The result is a tangy, garlicky, buttery shrimp dish that's perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a gourmet-style date night.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are likely already in your kitchen. If not, they are easy to find in any local supermarket. The star of this dish is shrimp, and while purchasing, ensure to choose either fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp that's been deveined. Butter, garlic, and lemons are staple ingredients, but make sure you have fresh parsley for garnish, which adds a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor and helps in sautéing the shrimp.
Garlic cloves: Gives a strong, spicy, warming flavor that's essential in this dish.
Shrimp: The main protein in this dish. Ensure they are deveined.
Kosher salt: Used to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy taste.
Water: Used to dilute the sauce for a lighter consistency.
Parsley: A garnish that adds a fresh and vibrant flavor.
One reader, Daveta Schrock says:
This lemon garlic butter shrimp recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the shrimp turns out succulent and flavorful. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a mouthwatering dish that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious. It's a must-try for any seafood lover!
Techniques Required for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
How to melt butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes a liquid.
How to cook shrimp: Fry the shrimp in the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 2 minutes on one side, stirring occasionally, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes on the other side until just beginning to turn pink.
How to make lemon garlic butter sauce: Add the remaining butter, lemon juice, and water to the skillet. Cook and stir until the butter melts and the shrimp have cooked through.
How to garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving over rice.
How To Make Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Seafood lovers are going to want a bite of this tasty shrimp recipe! Each shrimp is coated in a tasteful lemon garlic butter. Make this in just 20 minutes.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ⅓cupbutterdivided
- 4garlic clovesminced or 1 tablespoon
- 1¾lbsshrimpor prawns, peeled and deveined, tails intact
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepperto taste
- 2tbsplemon juiceadd more if desired
- 2tbspwater
- parsleyfresh chopped, to garnish
Instructions
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Melt 2 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Fry the shrimp in the skillet and add salt and pepper to taste.
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Cook 2 minutes on one side, while stirring occasionally.
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Flip and cook 2 minutes on the other side until just beginning to turn pink.
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Add in the remaining butter, lemon juice and water.
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Cook, while stirring, until the butter melts and the shrimp have cooked through. Take the skillet off the heat.
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Add more lemon juice, salt or pepper, to taste.
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Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, serve over rice, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 285.30kcal
- Fat: 17.42g
- Saturated Fat: 10.25g
- Trans Fat: 0.66g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.35g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.18g
- Carbohydrates: 3.94g
- Fiber: 0.34g
- Sugar: 0.26g
- Protein: 27.53g
- Cholesterol: 290.71mg
- Sodium: 1127.63mg
- Calcium: 124.19mg
- Potassium: 271.09mg
- Iron: 0.69mg
- Vitamin A: 246.65µg
- Vitamin C: 7.02mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
When cooking shrimp, it's important not to overcook them as they can quickly become rubbery. The key is to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink. This ensures that they remain juicy and tender. Additionally, using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder can greatly enhance the flavor of the dish. Fresh garlic has a more potent and aromatic flavor that pairs well with the lemon and butter.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and devein shrimp in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pan wonder: Opt for a single skillet to minimize clean-up and simplify the cooking process.
Quick thaw: Thaw frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for faster results.
Efficient multitasking: While the shrimp cooks, prepare the garnishes and side dishes to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Flavor shortcut: Use pre-minced garlic to save time on prep without sacrificing flavor.
Smart substitutions: Consider using pre-cooked shrimp to reduce cooking time without compromising taste and texture.
Substitute Ingredients For Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
- butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee is a clarified butter that has a nutty flavor and is suitable for high-heat cooking. It will add a rich and aromatic flavor to the dish.
- garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic. It will provide a similar flavor without the texture of minced garlic.
- shrimp - Substitute with prawns: Prawns are a suitable substitute for shrimp, as they have a similar taste and texture. They can be used interchangeably in recipes.
- kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt. It has a similar texture and flavor and can be used in the same quantity as kosher salt in the recipe.
- lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, providing a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the dish.
- parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Presenting Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate the plating: When presenting the lemon garlic butter shrimp, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use a large, white, or light-colored plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish. Arrange the shrimp neatly and consider incorporating some colorful garnishes, such as microgreens or edible flowers, to add a touch of sophistication.
Incorporate texture: Introduce elements that add textural contrast to the dish. Consider serving the shrimp alongside a delicate citrus-infused couscous or a light and fluffy quinoa. The addition of a crunchy element, such as a sprinkling of toasted coconut flakes or almond slivers, can provide a delightful textural contrast.
Highlight the freshness of the ingredients: Emphasize the quality and freshness of the shrimp by incorporating a vibrant and visually appealing element. Consider adding a small side salad of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette, or a refreshing citrus and avocado salsa to complement the flavors of the dish.
Artful drizzling: Utilize the lemon garlic butter sauce as an opportunity for artistic expression. Drizzle the sauce in a deliberate and artful manner, using a squeeze bottle or a small spoon to create elegant swirls or patterns on the plate. This attention to detail will showcase your precision and culinary finesse.
Balance the plate: Pay attention to the overall composition of the plate. Ensure that the portion sizes are balanced and that the various components of the dish are thoughtfully arranged. Aim for a harmonious presentation that demonstrates your understanding of balance and proportion in culinary artistry.
Incorporate a touch of citrus: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating a pop of citrus. Consider adding a thinly sliced lemon wheel or a twist of lemon zest as a decorative element on the plate. This subtle addition not only adds a burst of color but also reinforces the citrusy flavor profile of the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a visually striking presentation. Allow the white space on the plate to accentuate the vibrant colors of the shrimp and accompanying elements, drawing attention to the focal point of the dish.
Emphasize symmetry and precision: Showcase your attention to detail by arranging the shrimp and accompanying components with precision and symmetry. Aim for clean lines and carefully orchestrated placement to convey a sense of refinement and culinary expertise.
Essential Tools for Making Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
- Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides used for sautéing and frying.
- Tongs: Used for flipping and turning food items while cooking.
- Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
- Lemon squeezer: Used to extract juice from lemons easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for the recipe.
- Grater: Used to grate garlic and lemon zest for the recipe.
- Stove: Used for cooking the shrimp in the skillet.
- Serving platter: Used for presenting the finished dish.
Storing and Freezing Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
- To store leftover lemon garlic butter shrimp, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help maintain moisture if needed.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- To thaw frozen lemon garlic butter shrimp, transfer the container to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. Reheat as mentioned above, taking care not to overcook the shrimp as it may become tough and rubbery.
- It's important to note that while freezing can extend the shelf life of the dish, the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. For best results, consume within 1 month of freezing.
How To Reheat Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Leftovers
To reheat leftover lemon garlic butter shrimp, start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature will help prevent the shrimp from overcooking and becoming rubbery.
Place the leftover shrimp in a baking dish and add a splash of water or chicken broth to the bottom of the dish. This will create steam and keep the shrimp moist during the reheating process.
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through. The exact time will depend on the amount of shrimp you're reheating.
Alternatively, you can reheat the lemon garlic butter shrimp on the stovetop. Place the leftover shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat.
Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat the shrimp for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through.
If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a bit more water or chicken broth to thin it out. If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce and thicken.
Once the shrimp are heated through, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a pinch of salt, or a crack of black pepper to brighten up the flavors.
Garnish the reheated lemon garlic butter shrimp with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Interesting Fact About Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, low in calories, and high in omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain a good amount of vitamin D and vitamin B12, which are essential for overall health.
Is Making Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp at Home Cost-Effective?
This lemon garlic butter shrimp recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Shrimp is reasonably priced and the other ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens. The dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and can be served as a main course or as a side dish. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-25, making it an affordable and delicious option for a family meal. I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10 for its simplicity, taste, and affordability.
Is Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Healthy or Unhealthy?
The lemon garlic butter shrimp recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to its high butter content. Butter is rich in saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe by half and replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil
- Add a variety of colorful vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, to increase the nutrient content and fiber
- Use whole grain rice instead of white rice as a side dish to provide more fiber and nutrients
- Opt for low-sodium chicken broth instead of water to add more flavor without increasing the sodium content significantly
- Serve the shrimp with a side salad or steamed vegetables to create a more balanced meal
By incorporating these changes, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of lemon garlic butter shrimp while making the dish more nutritious and wholesome.
Editor's Opinion on Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
This lemon garlic butter shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The use of garlic and lemon adds a zesty and refreshing taste to the succulent shrimp. The cooking process is simple and allows the natural flavors of the shrimp to shine through. The addition of parsley provides a fresh and vibrant finish. This dish is versatile and can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. It's a perfect choice for a quick and impressive meal.
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Why trust this Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with its use of fresh, succulent shrimp and a harmonious blend of butter, garlic, and lemon juice. The meticulous cooking process ensures the perfect texture and flavor, while the addition of parsley adds a vibrant touch. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, as it promises to elevate your culinary skills and deliver a memorable dish.
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