Shrimp is a versatile seafood, loved for its quick cooking time and ability to absorb flavors easily. This Delicious Sautéed Shrimp recipe is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can transform into a delightful meal. With garlic, butter, and lemon juice, this dish delivers rich flavors in just minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or an elegant meal to impress guests, this shrimp recipe has it all. Plus, it’s a great low-carb, high-protein option that pairs beautifully with various sides like pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by preparing the shrimp. Ensure they are peeled and deveined, rinsed under cold water, and patted dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp will sear better and soak up the flavors more efficiently.
Step 2:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The combination of oil and butter prevents the butter from burning while still adding a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.
Step 3:
Once the butter has melted and the mixture is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden, infusing the oil and butter with its flavor.
Step 4:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as this can cause them to become tough and rubbery.
Step 5:
Once the shrimp are fully cooked, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. The butter will melt, and the lemon juice will add a bright, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the butter and garlic. Toss the shrimp in the sauce to coat them evenly.
Step 6:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the shrimp with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Cooking Note:
- Choosing Shrimp: For the best results, opt for large shrimp, as they retain moisture better during cooking. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but if using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding more garlic or lemon juice to suit your taste. You can also substitute lime juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Overcooking: One of the most important things to watch out for when cooking shrimp is overcooking. Shrimp cook quickly and should be removed from heat as soon as they are pink and opaque.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pasta Pairing: This sautéed shrimp pairs beautifully with a light pasta dish, such as angel hair or spaghetti tossed with olive oil and Parmesan cheese. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the pasta for a slight kick.
- Rice Bowls: Serve the shrimp over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting and hearty meal. For a healthier option, try serving them over quinoa or cauliflower rice.
- Salads: If you’re looking for a lighter meal, these shrimp can be a fantastic topping for a fresh salad. A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the butter and garlic in the shrimp.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini are great accompaniments. You can even toss the vegetables into the pan after the shrimp is cooked to soak up some of the garlic and lemon sauce.
Tips:
- Add Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during the cooking process or while garnishing. It adds a nice contrast to the buttery richness of the shrimp.
- Garlic Bread: Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread to soak up the flavorful butter sauce. A toasted baguette with olive oil and garlic is perfect for this.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can be used instead of parsley for a different twist on the garnish. You can also experiment with thyme or rosemary for a more robust flavor.
- Meal Prep: Sautéed shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet with a bit of butter to avoid overcooking.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 480mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing them in a colander and running cold water over them for 5-10 minutes.
Q: Can I substitute olive oil with another oil?
A: Yes, you can substitute olive oil with any neutral oil like vegetable oil or avocado oil. However, olive oil adds a unique flavor that complements the shrimp well.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
A: Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They will also curl slightly into a “C” shape. Be sure not to overcook them, as they can become tough and chewy.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
A: Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be sautéed with the shrimp or cooked separately as a side dish.
Q: What other garnishes can I use besides parsley?
A: You can use other fresh herbs such as cilantro, basil, or dill. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a nice touch.
Conclusion:
This Delicious Sautéed Shrimp recipe is perfect for any seafood lover who enjoys bold flavors with minimal effort. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon juice creates a mouthwatering sauce that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Whether you serve it with pasta, rice, or a salad, this dish is versatile enough for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. Best of all, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant taste of sautéed shrimp with this simple yet flavorful recipe!
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Delicious Sautéed Shrimp
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by preparing the shrimp. Ensure they are peeled and deveined, rinsed under cold water, and patted dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp will sear better and soak up the flavors more efficiently.
Step 2:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The combination of oil and butter prevents the butter from burning while still adding a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.
Step 3:
Once the butter has melted and the mixture is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden, infusing the oil and butter with its flavor.
Step 4:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as this can cause them to become tough and rubbery.
Step 5:
Once the shrimp are fully cooked, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. The butter will melt, and the lemon juice will add a bright, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the butter and garlic. Toss the shrimp in the sauce to coat them evenly.
Step 6:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the shrimp with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Cooking Note:
- Choosing Shrimp: For the best results, opt for large shrimp, as they retain moisture better during cooking. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but if using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding more garlic or lemon juice to suit your taste. You can also substitute lime juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Overcooking: One of the most important things to watch out for when cooking shrimp is overcooking. Shrimp cook quickly and should be removed from heat as soon as they are pink and opaque.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sodium: 480mg
- Protein: 25g