Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 10 oz fresh spinach
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp
  • Begin by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts and becomes foamy, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
  • Place the shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them as they will become rubbery.
  • Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp and toss them gently to coat. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sautéing the Spinach
  • In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt and the oil to heat up.
  • Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches if necessary, stirring constantly to ensure even cooking. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the spinach wilts down completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combining the Shrimp and Spinach
  • Once the spinach is cooked, return the shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together, allowing the shrimp to reheat and absorb the flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
  • Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
  • Serve immediately, either on its own or with sides like crusty bread or a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.

Notes

Cooking Notes:

  • Shrimp Tips: It’s important to use large shrimp for this recipe, as they provide a meaty texture that holds up well against the buttery sauce. Frozen shrimp can be used if fresh is not available—just ensure that they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
  • Garlic Flavor: For a more intense garlic flavor, you can add an additional clove or two of garlic. Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing, as it can turn bitter quickly.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a bit of heat. The slight spiciness balances the richness of the butter perfectly.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sodium: 470mg
  • Protein: 24g