Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon & Parsley 🧄🦐🍋
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon & Parsley is a restaurant-worthy dish you can whip up in under 15 minutes. With juicy shrimp bathed in garlic butter and brightened with lemon and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for tossing with pasta, spooning over rice, or serving as a light appetizer. 💚
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Recipe 💚
- ✅ Fast & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
- ✅ High-Protein & Low-Carb: Naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly.
- ✅ Elegant but Effortless: Perfect for casual dinners or dinner parties.
- ✅ Versatile: Serve it over pasta, grains, greens, or eat solo!
🦐 Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined 🦐
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈
- 4 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice 🍋
- 1 tsp lemon zest 🍋
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
- Salt & black pepper to taste 🧂
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 🌿
- Optional: lemon wedges, extra melted butter for serving 🍋
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions (Expanded)
- Prep the shrimp:
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides to build flavor before cooking. - Sauté the garlic:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Sauté for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant—do not brown.
- Cook the shrimp:
- Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, flipping once.
- Do not overcook—the shrimp should be tender and juicy.
- Add lemon & butter finish:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Toss well to coat the shrimp in the buttery citrus sauce.
- Garnish & serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges and crusty bread or your favorite side.
💡 Serving Ideas & Flavor Twists
- ✨ Serve over: Linguine, steamed rice, quinoa, or sautéed spinach.
- ✨ Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk after the lemon juice for a buttery sauce base.
- ✨ Extra garlic? Go for it! Roasted garlic or garlic confit adds a deep, sweet-savory twist.
- ✨ Make it spicy: Use cayenne or finely diced jalapeño for more heat.
🧄 Nutritional Highlights
Shrimp is low in calories but high in protein, selenium, and vitamin B12. The garlic and lemon not only enhance flavor but also offer antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. This dish is satisfying and nourishing without being heavy.
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- ✅ Make-ahead tip: Peel and devein shrimp in advance and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- ✅ Storage: Leftovers keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.
- ✅ Reheat gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter—avoid the microwave to prevent rubbery texture.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely, then pat dry before cooking. Avoid excess moisture to get a proper sear.
Can I substitute butter with olive oil?
Absolutely. Olive oil works well and is ideal for a dairy-free version, but butter gives the sauce extra richness.
What’s the best pan to use?
A stainless steel or cast iron skillet works best for even searing. Avoid non-stick if you want a deeper caramelization.
Quick, Elegant & Absolutely Flavorful 💚
Try this simple garlic butter shrimp for your next weeknight dinner or date night in. 💬 Share your plating ideas in the comments or tag your lemony shrimp creation on Pinterest!
