Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

Introduction

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and vibrant dish that combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even entertaining guests, this dish balances the richness of butter with the bright acidity of lemon and the savory punch of garlic. It’s light yet indulgent, easy to prepare, and impressive enough to serve as a centerpiece for any meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet incredibly flavorful. The shrimp cook in just minutes and soak up the buttery, garlicky, lemony sauce, creating a dish that’s both rich and refreshing. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon elevates the natural sweetness of shrimp, making every bite irresistible.

It’s also versatile—you can serve it over pasta, rice, or vegetables, and the sauce can double as a flavorful dip for bread. The vibrant aroma of garlic and lemon cooking in butter fills the kitchen, making it a recipe that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s fast, easy, and packed with flavor, yet elegant enough for special occasions. The buttery sauce is rich and luxurious, while the lemon adds brightness that keeps the dish light. Perfectly cooked shrimp coated in this sauce make a restaurant-quality meal achievable in under 15 minutes.

It’s also versatile and customizable—spice it up with red pepper flakes, add fresh herbs for extra flavor, or serve it in different ways. Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that combines speed, simplicity, and incredible taste.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 7–10 minutes
• Total Time: 12–15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 280 kcal
• Cuisine: American / Seafood
• Course: Main Course / Appetizer

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Optional Serving Suggestions:

• Over pasta, rice, or quinoa
• With roasted or steamed vegetables
• With crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Stir in lemon juice and zest, tossing shrimp to coat.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Prepare Shrimp:
   • Peel and devein shrimp if needed. Pat dry with paper towels for better searing.
2. Heat Butter and Oil:
   • In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook Garlic:
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Cook Shrimp:
   • Add shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
   • Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
5. Add Lemon:
   • Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest, coating the shrimp evenly in the sauce.
6. Finish with Parsley:
   • Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness and color.
7. Serve:
   • Plate shrimp with your choice of pasta, rice, or vegetables. Spoon extra sauce over the top.

How to Serve

• Over linguine, spaghetti, or rice for a full meal.
• With roasted or steamed vegetables for a lighter option.
• As an appetizer with crusty bread to dip in the buttery sauce.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Pat shrimp dry to get a better sear.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp—they cook very quickly and can become rubbery.
• Adjust lemon juice for more or less tanginess.
• Red pepper flakes can be added for a touch of heat.

Variations

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Add 2–3 tbsp heavy cream for a richer sauce.
• Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper.
• Garlic Herb Lemon Shrimp: Add thyme, oregano, or basil for extra flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp may become rubbery and the sauce may separate.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Shrimp cooks very quickly and is best served immediately. You can prepare the sauce ahead and add shrimp just before serving.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes, asparagus, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions.

Q: How can I make it more flavorful?
A: Add fresh herbs, garlic, lemon zest, or a splash of white wine to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a fast, elegant, and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a zesty, garlicky, buttery sauce. Perfect for pasta, rice, or vegetables, it’s quick enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions. With its bright, fresh flavors and luxurious sauce, this recipe is a must-have in any seafood lover’s kitchen.