Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon

Savor tender Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon, a quick, flavorful dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions. This recipe combines juicy shrimp with a luscious butter sauce infused with fresh garlic, fragrant herbs, and a bright splash of lemon, delivering mouthwatering flavors in just minutes. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner or an impressive appetizer, this Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A speedy weeknight meal: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• A burst of fresh flavors: Garlic, herbs, and lemon create a bright, savory taste that delights the palate.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh herbs for a wholesome dish anyone can make.
• Versatile in serving: Works great over pasta, rice, or as an appetizer for guests.
• Impresses without fuss: Elegant enough for dinner parties but easy enough for casual meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon plays an essential role, combining to create a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. Fresh herbs and lemon brighten the buttery garlic sauce, while plump shrimp bring satisfying protein and juiciness.

• Fresh shrimp: Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and tenderness.
• Unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy base that carries the garlic and herbs beautifully.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic adds a punch of bold, aromatic flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley and thyme bring herby freshness that balances the richness.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the butter.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning enhances all the natural flavors.
• Olive oil: Used to sauté shrimp gently without overpowering the garlic butter sauce.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat if you like a little spice.

Variations for Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon

This Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon recipe is delightfully adaptable. Feel free to customize it to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences, making it uniquely yours.

• Spicy version: Incorporate cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Creamy option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream toward the end for a luscious, creamy sauce.
• Herb swaps: Use fresh basil, dill, or cilantro instead of parsley and thyme for a fresh twist.
• Garlic-free: Substitute with shallots or omit garlic entirely for a milder flavor.
• Whole shrimp heads on: Leave the shells and heads on for deeper flavor if preferred.

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How to Make Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse your shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Mince the garlic, chop the fresh herbs finely, and squeeze fresh lemon juice, ready to combine with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, then add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in chopped herbs and lemon juice, mixing to combine all flavors perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently in the garlic herb butter lemon sauce. Cook together for another minute to let the shrimp soak up the flavors fully.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Give it a final stir before plating, and get ready to enjoy your Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp cook better and have better flavor than frozen or pre-cooked shrimp.
• Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook quickly; watch for the pink color and firm texture to avoid rubberiness.
• Bring shrimp to room temperature: Letting shrimp sit out briefly before cooking ensures even cooking.
• Toast garlic carefully: Cook garlic just until fragrant to prevent bitterness from burning.
• Add lemon juice at the end: This keeps the bright, fresh taste vibrant and prevents bitterness.
• Use a nonstick skillet: Keeps shrimp from sticking and allows easy flipping.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or a few lemon slices enhance the visual appeal and add bursts of fresh flavor that complement the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice, garlic butter pasta, crusty bread, or even a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shrimp over a bed of creamy polenta, drizzle with extra lemon butter sauce, or pile high on toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer presentation that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp in the sauce for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water or butter to keep the sauce silky and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well; just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to get the best texture and flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The classic Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon is mild, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or cayenne for some heat if desired.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are best for bright flavors, but if you only have dried, use about one-third the amount and add earlier during cooking.

What should I serve with Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon?

This shrimp pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh green salad, making it a versatile meal option.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so watch closely.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp with Lemon is a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for easy dinners, special gatherings, or anytime you crave bold, fresh flavors. Its simplicity, speed, and irresistible taste bring warmth and satisfaction to any table. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your home kitchen!

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