Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Keyword: Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a delicious and simple dish that can be enjoyed with minimal effort in the kitchen. This recipe provides a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, and it serves four people. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or looking for an easy weeknight meal, garlic butter shrimp offers versatility and flavor.

To get started, gather your ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Begin by preparing the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the cleaned shrimp and mix gently to coat evenly.

Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will cause them to steam rather than sear properly. Cooking time may vary depending on your pan's size.

While the shrimp are cooking, melt the butter in a separate small saucepan over low heat. When the butter melts completely, stir it into the mixture of garlic and oil. Continue heating until the butter is slightly browned but not burnt to avoid bitterness. This process adds depth and richness to your dish.

Once the shrimp are fully cooked, transfer them to a serving platter or bowl. Pour the warm garlic butter over the top, ensuring each piece gets an ample coating of the flavorful sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for extra color and freshness if desired. Serve immediately while still hot from the skillet.

This dish pairs wonderfully well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli, rice pilaf, quinoa salad, or even a simple tossed green salad. You could also serve garlic butter shrimp alongside a crisp, refreshing cucumber salad for a light and balanced meal.

Additional Tips

For optimal results, make sure your butter is softened but not melted before adding it to the skillet. This helps create a richer sauce with more pronounced flavor when incorporated into the garlic and oil mixture.

1. If you prefer less sodium in your dish, consider using reduced-sodium soy sauce as an alternative to salt or in addition to enhancing flavors during seasoning.

2. For extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes towards the end when melting the butter. However, be cautious about adding too much heat; adjust according to taste.

Nutritional Information Per Serving:

(Based on 4 servings)

• Total Calories: ~300 per serving
• Protein: ~25 grams per serving
• Fat: ~20 grams per serving (saturated fats are included in the butter amount)
• Sodium: ~600 mg per serving

Garlic butter shrimp is not only delightful but also healthy when consumed responsibly. Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids from the shrimp, this recipe offers a balanced meal that can be tailored to suit various dietary needs.

This versatile dish adapts easily to different occasions and preferences. For instance, if you're looking for something more substantial, serve it with garlic bread or a Caesar salad instead of lighter sides like steamed vegetables. Alternatively, on days when you want to focus on the seafood itself, opt for a simpler accompaniment such as sautéed spinach or roasted potatoes.

The appeal of garlic butter shrimp extends beyond its simplicity and deliciousness. It’s also relatively inexpensive to prepare, making it an attractive option for those watching their budgets while still treating themselves to something special.