Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and delicious seafood dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a balance of savory, garlicky goodness and succulent shrimp. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it a great option for a satisfying meal without much effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Pour the chicken broth over the shrimp and allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes, letting the sauce reduce slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic and butter for a spicy kick.
2. Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or lemon zest to the skillet for a zesty, citrusy twist.
3. Herb-Infused Shrimp: Include additional herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the skillet for a more aromatic flavor.
4. Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Serve the garlic butter shrimp over cooked pasta for a heartier meal. Simply toss the shrimp and sauce with the pasta of your choice.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover garlic butter shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and keep the shrimp moist.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
2. Can I make this recipe with other types of seafood?
   Yes, this recipe works well with scallops, lobster tails, or even fish fillets.
3. Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?
   Yes, you can use any neutral oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
4. How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
   Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking as they can become tough and rubbery.
5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
   Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to make the dish more substantial.
6. How do I make the garlic butter sauce richer?
   You can add more butter for a richer sauce or even a splash of cream to make it creamy.
7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
   Yes, vegetable broth is a good substitute if you want a vegetarian version of this dish.
8. Can I serve garlic butter shrimp with rice?
   Yes, garlic butter shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, whether it’s white rice, brown rice, or even a bed of risotto.
9. How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
   Cook the shrimp over medium heat and avoid overcooking them. Shrimp cook quickly, so once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
10. Can I freeze garlic butter shrimp?
    It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as freezing shrimp can affect their texture. However, you can freeze the cooked shrimp in a sealed container for up to a month.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want a quick, satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. The garlic-infused butter sauce is the star, creating a rich and savory coating for the tender shrimp. Whether served on its own or paired with pasta or rice, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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