Indulge in an exquisite culinary experience with our mouth-watering Garlic Lemon Shrimp recipe, a dish that effortlessly blends sophistication with remarkable simplicity. This recipe transforms fresh, succulent shrimp into a gourmet delight, coated in a vibrant lemon-garlic butter sauce that promises an explosion of flavors in every bite. Designed for speed and ease, this incredible preparation cooks in under 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a luxurious date night, a special weeknight treat, or an impressive meal when entertaining guests. Its light yet rich profile, coupled with shrimp’s high protein content, ensures you savor a luxurious taste while adhering to healthy eating habits.
The versatility of this sautéed garlic butter shrimp is truly unparalleled. It pairs beautifully with a vast array of side dishes, making meal planning a breeze. Once you discover how incredibly quick and simple it is to prepare, this delightful garlic and lemon shrimp might just become a regular fixture in your weekly menu rotation. Its vibrant flavors and effortless preparation are sure to win over even the most discerning palates.
If you’re a fan of rich garlic butter flavors, we highly recommend exploring some of our other popular recipes, such as our Garlic Butter Turkey Meatballs, the irresistible Garlic Butter Mushroom Chicken Bites, or the delicate Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops. Each offers a unique take on this beloved flavor combination.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Garlic Lemon Shrimp Recipe
There are countless reasons why this Garlic Lemon Shrimp recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Beyond its irresistible flavor, it offers practical benefits that make it a perfect fit for any lifestyle.
- Unbelievably Fast Preparation: In today’s fast-paced world, time is a luxury. This garlic lemon shrimp recipe comes together from start to finish in less than 15 minutes, making it your go-to solution for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious, homemade meal without the lengthy cooking process. It’s quicker than ordering takeout and infinitely more satisfying.
- Explosive, Incredible Flavor: Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey. Each tender shrimp is perfectly seasoned and then gloriously bathed in a luscious, aromatic lemon-garlic butter sauce. The bright tang of fresh lemon juice perfectly complements the robust warmth of garlic and the richness of butter, creating a harmonious and unmatched flavor profile that will have you reaching for seconds.
- Surprisingly Healthy and Diet-Friendly: Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with this wholesome dish. These tender shrimp are naturally low in carbohydrates and entirely gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for various dietary needs. For those following a ketogenic diet, this tasty creation fits perfectly into your meal plan, offering a decadent feel without compromising your health goals. Shrimp itself is a lean protein source, contributing to a balanced and nutritious meal.
- Versatility for Any Occasion: While elegant enough for entertaining or a romantic date night, its simplicity also makes it ideal for a casual family dinner. It’s a dish that adapts to your needs, always delivering on flavor and satisfaction.
Essential Ingredients for Your Garlic Lemon Shrimp
Crafting the perfect Garlic Lemon Shrimp begins with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor that make this dish so special. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips for optimal results:
- Olive Oil: You’ll need about 2 tablespoons of good quality olive oil to start the sautéing process. A light, neutral-flavored oil also works wonderfully if olive oil isn’t your preference. It helps create a beautiful sear on the shrimp and forms the base for our flavorful sauce.
- Shrimp: The star of our dish! Opt for raw jumbo shrimp that have been peeled and deveined to save you time and effort. Leaving the tails on not only adds an elegant presentation but also gives a convenient handle for eating. Jumbo shrimp are typically labeled as 21/25, indicating approximately 21-25 shrimp per pound, ensuring a substantial bite.
- Garlic: As the name suggests, garlic is a cornerstone of this recipe. Freshly minced garlic is absolutely key here – approximately 5-6 cloves will impart that signature aromatic punch. Avoid pre-minced garlic in a jar if possible, as fresh garlic offers a far superior flavor profile.
- Seasonings: A harmonious blend of Italian seasonings, smoked paprika, freshly ground black pepper, and salt will perfectly enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Italian seasonings bring an herbaceous depth, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a beautiful reddish hue. Adjust salt to taste, but start with ½ teaspoon.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, about 2 tablespoons, as it gives you complete control over the dish’s overall saltiness. High-quality butter will melt into a rich, golden sauce that coats every piece of shrimp beautifully.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Approximately 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice introduces a bright, zesty tartness that cuts through the richness of the butter and balances the pungent garlic. It’s a non-negotiable ingredient for that quintessential lemon-garlic flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Roughly 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a burst of vibrant color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that elevates the dish. It’s the perfect finishing garnish.
- Crushed Red Chili Flakes (Optional): For those who enjoy a little kick, a teaspoon of crushed red chili flakes can be added to introduce a delightful warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Lemon Slices: Essential for garnish, lemon slices add a final touch of visual appeal and allow for an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the table, enhancing the freshness.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Creating this irresistible Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a truly restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen:
- Prepare Your Skillet and Sauté the Shrimp: Begin by heating a large skillet over a medium flame. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers slightly and is heated, add your peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Sauté for just 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp begin to curl slightly and turn an opaque pink. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure an even sear. This initial sauté locks in their natural sweetness and gives them a beautiful texture.
- Infuse with Aromatics and Seasonings: Once the shrimp are mostly cooked, reduce the heat slightly if needed. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasonings, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and salt to the skillet. Continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes, stirring gently. This brief cooking time allows the garlic to become fragrant and the spices to bloom, infusing the shrimp with their incredible aroma without burning the garlic.
- Create the Luscious Butter Sauce: Now, it’s time to bring the magic together. Stir in the unsalted butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, and the optional crushed red chili flakes. Simmer the shrimp in this flavorful sauce for just 1-2 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and emulsify with the lemon juice and pan juices, creating a rich, glossy coating. The goal is to heat the butter through and ensure the flavors meld, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp in this step.
- Serve and Garnish: As soon as the sauce has thickened slightly and the shrimp are perfectly coated, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at its peak tenderness and flavor.
Expert Tips for Perfectly Sautéed Garlic Butter Shrimp
Achieving restaurant-quality garlic butter shrimp at home is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Always Choose Raw Shrimp: For the best texture and flavor, always purchase raw shrimp (fresh or frozen) rather than pre-cooked varieties. Pre-cooked shrimp tend to become tough and rubbery when reheated.
- Save Time with Peeled Shrimp: While peeling shrimp isn’t difficult, buying shrimp that are already peeled and deveined will significantly cut down on your prep time, making this a truly fast meal.
- Understand Shrimp Sizing: Jumbo shrimp are often labeled with a number range like 21/25, which indicates there are 21 to 25 shrimp per pound. This size is ideal for a satisfying bite and cooks perfectly in this recipe.
- Watch for Doneness Cues: Shrimp cook very quickly! They are perfectly cooked when they curl into a “C” shape and turn an opaque pink color. An “O” shape often indicates overcooked, rubbery shrimp.
- Prep Everything in Advance (Mise en Place): This recipe moves incredibly fast, so having all your ingredients prepped and measured before you start cooking is crucial. This “mise en place” approach ensures you don’t overcook the delicate shrimp while scrambling for ingredients.
- Invest in Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this dish means the quality of your ingredients truly shines through. Use high-quality unsalted butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice (from actual lemons, not bottled concentrate), and fresh garlic cloves for the most vibrant and authentic flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your shrimp space! Cook them in a single layer, even if it means doing it in two batches. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing, which prevents that lovely golden crust.
- Resist the Urge to Constantly Stir: When first adding the shrimp, let them sit undisturbed in the hot pan for a few minutes. This allows them to develop a beautiful sear. Flip them once to cook the other side, rather than constantly tossing or moving them around.
- Adjust Spice to Your Preference: The red chili flakes are optional. If you prefer a milder dish, omit them. For more heat, feel free to add a little extra.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Should you cook shrimp in butter or oil?
You can certainly cook shrimp in either butter or oil, and both have their merits. For this particular recipe, I prefer to start by sautéing the shrimp in a small amount of olive oil. This helps to achieve a nice sear on the shrimp without the butter browning too quickly. Then, butter is added later to create the rich, flavorful lemon garlic sauce. This two-step approach ensures perfectly cooked shrimp and a velvety sauce.
Can you overcook shrimp?
Yes, absolutely! Shrimp cooks incredibly fast, often in just a few minutes. Overcooked shrimp will become tough, rubbery, and lose their delicate texture and natural sweetness. To prevent this, it’s vital to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start. Watch the shrimp closely: they are done when they curl slightly into a C-shape and turn an opaque pink color. Pull them off the heat as soon as they reach this stage.
How do you keep garlic butter sauce from separating?
Butter is an emulsion, and it can sometimes “break” or separate when exposed to high, sustained heat, resulting in an oily, unappealing sauce rather than a smooth one. To prevent your garlic butter sauce from separating, make sure to lower the heat on the pan before adding the butter. Allow it to melt slowly and gently, incorporating it with the lemon juice and pan drippings. Constant whisking can also help maintain the emulsion.
How do I store and reheat garlic and lemon shrimp?
Leftover garlic and lemon shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. When reheating, the key is to do so gently to avoid overcooking. It’s best to warm them slowly in a skillet over low heat until just heated through. The microwave is generally not recommended for reheating shrimp, as it can easily lead to a rubbery texture.
Can I freeze lemon garlic butter shrimp?
While it’s possible, freezing cooked shrimp can sometimes alter its texture, making it slightly tougher when reheated. If you must freeze, first chill the cooked shrimp thoroughly. Then, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for 2-3 hours until solid. Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating in a skillet.
Delectable Serving Suggestions for Sauteed Garlic Butter Shrimp
The beauty of this easy shrimp dinner lies in its incredible versatility when it comes to pairings. The rich, tangy, and savory flavors complement almost any side dish. Here are some fantastic ideas to complete your meal:
- Pasta Perfection: Toss the succulent shrimp directly with delicate angel hair pasta or linguine, allowing the delicious garlic butter sauce to coat every strand. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is a wonderful addition.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve the shrimp over a generous helping of Homemade Mashed Potatoes. The creamy potatoes perfectly absorb the flavorful sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying combination.
- Southern Grits: For a touch of Southern comfort, spoon the shrimp over a bowl of creamy, cheesy grits. This pairing is rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.
- Fresh Green Salad: Balance the richness of the shrimp with a crisp, refreshing green salad. A simple vinaigrette dressing will enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
- Steamed Vegetables: Healthy and delicious, steamed asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or spinach make excellent companions. They add a fresh element and absorb the wonderful sauce.
- Crusty Artisan Bread: This is a must-have! A warm loaf of No Knead Crusty Artisan Bread or a simple garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that incredible lemon garlic butter sauce. Don’t let a single drop go to waste!
- Fluffy Rice: White or brown rice serves as a neutral base that soaks up all the delicious sauce, making for a wonderfully complete meal.
Explore More Delicious Shrimp Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and flavor of this shrimp dish, you’ll be thrilled to discover more of our fantastic shrimp-centric recipes:
- Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp: A homemade version of a takeout favorite.
- Mango Shrimp Salad: A light, refreshing, and vibrant salad perfect for warm weather.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Spaghetti: A comforting and hearty pasta dish packed with flavor.
- Easy Shrimp Salad: Simple, quick, and perfect for sandwiches or a light meal.
- Air Fryer Shrimp and Vegetables: A healthy and convenient way to enjoy shrimp and fresh veggies.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: For those who love a little heat, this pasta dish delivers.
We sincerely hope you cherish every recipe we share with you, and this delectable sautéed garlic butter shrimp recipe is no exception. We encourage you to try it, savor every bite, and share your experience with friends and family! Your culinary adventures bring joy to our kitchen.
If you whip up this incredible recipe and find yourself delighted, please take a moment to leave a star rating and a comment below. We love hearing from you! Don’t forget to use my hashtag to share your delicious recreations with me on Instagram. Also, make sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST for all my latest social posts, kitchen tips, and new recipes. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Mariam Ezzeddine
5 minutes
10 minutes
15 minutes
4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails ON
- 5-6 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Salt , or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
- Lemon slices, to garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over a medium flame with olive oil. Once the oil is heated, add the shrimp and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, Italian seasonings, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and salt and sauté for a couple more minutes, stirring gently to prevent burning the garlic.
- Stir in the butter, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and red chili flakes. Simmer the shrimp in the sauce for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to coat the shrimp.
- Garnish the shrimp with fresh lemon slices and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Purchase raw or raw frozen shrimp rather than precooked shrimp for optimal texture and taste.
- Buying already peeled shrimp will significantly save you time during preparation.
- Jumbo shrimp are usually labeled as 21/25, which means there are typically 21-25 shrimp per pound, offering a good size for this dish.
- Shrimp will curl slightly into a ‘C’ shape and turn opaque pink when fully cooked. Avoid an ‘O’ shape, which indicates overcooking.
- This recipe cooks very quickly, so to prevent overcooked shrimp, ensure all of your ingredients are prepped and ready in advance.
- For the best and most authentic flavor, use high-quality butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and fresh garlic cloves.
- Do not constantly move the shrimp when they first hit the pan. Let them sit for a few minutes to develop a sear, then flip, rather than tossing or stirring constantly.
Nutrition
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