Delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a favorite dish among many who enjoy seafood with a zesty and garlicky kick. This recipe offers an easy yet impressive way to serve a meal that can be enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and butter not only enhances the natural flavor of shrimp but also provides a burst of freshness and complexity in every bite.

The cooking time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, which includes preparation, cooking, and resting time. It serves four people generously, making it ideal for small gatherings or family meals. You'll need just six main ingredients to prepare this delightful dish:

• 16-24 large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• juice from 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon of salt (optional for taste adjustment)
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and additional flavor)

Preparation:

1. Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter in the pan until it begins to foam slightly.
2. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic does not burn. The key is to let the garlic infuse the butter while maintaining its flavor integrity.
3. Once the garlic has been softened, add your shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them sit without stirring until they begin to turn pink and opaque on one side, approximately 2-3 minutes.
4. Mix the shrimp gently and cook for another minute or two on the other side until fully cooked through.
5. Just before removing from heat, stir in the lemon juice and salt (if used) into your skillet. This adds a bright, tangy element that cuts through the richness of butter and complements the garlic flavor beautifully.
6. Turn off the stove once all ingredients are well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra burst of color and aroma.

Serving:

To serve, transfer the cooked shrimp to a serving platter or individual plates. You can choose to have this as a main course accompanied by steamed vegetables like broccoli or rice. The lemon garlic butter sauce can be drizzled over the dish for added flavor.

Health Benefits

The ingredients in Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp are not only delicious but also beneficial for your health:

• Shrimp: Rich in protein, low in calories, and a source of omega-3 fatty acids which help reduce inflammation.
• Lemon: Provides vitamin C that supports immune function, boosts collagen production, and aids in iron absorption.
• Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential role in lowering blood pressure. Garlic can also enhance the flavor of foods without adding extra calories.

Tips for Success

1. Ensure that your shrimp are fully thawed before cooking to avoid uneven cooking times.
2. If you like a little more heat, add some red pepper flakes to the butter-garlic mix while cooking.
3. For extra flavor, use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. It's much fresher and adds a lively taste to your dish.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes Servings: 4 servings

This simple yet delightful recipe allows you to enjoy a meal rich in flavor, without being overly complicated. Whether you're hosting friends or just preparing for yourself, Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is sure to be a hit at your table.

To conclude, adding this dish to your repertoire will certainly impress both family and guests with its ease of preparation and delightful taste. So go ahead—try out our easy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe today!