Garlic Butter Shrimp: A Quick and Luxurious Seafood Delight
There's something magical about the combination of sweet, succulent shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce. This restaurant-worthy dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and elegant dinner parties. The secret lies in not overcooking the shrimp while building layers of flavor with plenty of fresh garlic and good-quality butter.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions: Begin by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels – this ensures better browning. Season them generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it starts to foam. Add half the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and start to curl. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining shrimp.
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the same pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds – be careful not to let it brown. If using wine, pour it in and let it reduce by half, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes if desired. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated and heated through, about 1 minute.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this versatile dish over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, pair it with roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles. A glass of crisp white wine makes the perfect accompaniment.
Pro Tips:
- Choose high-quality, fresh shrimp for the best results
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the shrimp
- Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of heat
This garlic butter shrimp recipe proves that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most memorable meals. The dish manages to feel both casual and sophisticated, making it a reliable go-to for any occasion.
Storage: While best served fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.
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