Buttery Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe: A Quick and Delicious Dish
This Buttery Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect as an appetizer, over pasta, or paired with rice and veggies for a complete meal. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. Below is the full recipe, preparation steps, calorie count, and tips for making it just right.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Rinse and pat dry the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Garlic:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Add Lemon and Butter:
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss to coat the shrimp in the buttery lemon sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using) and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Calories
The approximate calorie count per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
- Shrimp (1 lb): 120 calories
- Butter (3 tbsp): 300 calories
- Lemon juice: 15 calories
- Garlic (3 cloves): 12 calories
- Parsley: 5 calories
Total Calories (Per Serving): ~110 calories
Note: Calories may vary based on portion size and additional ingredients.
Tips for Success
- Fresh or Frozen Shrimp:
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp (thawed) works well, too.
- Avoid Overcooking:
- Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Add Variety:
- Serve over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
- Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrients.
- Customize the Heat:
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference or omit them for a milder dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy:
- This dish comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich in Flavor:
- The buttery lemon garlic sauce is light, tangy, and decadent.
- Healthy and Protein-Packed:
- Shrimp are low in calories and high in protein, making this a healthy yet satisfying option.
- Versatile:
- Whether as a main dish or appetizer, this recipe fits any occasion.
Conclusion
This Buttery Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is a simple, elegant, and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Its rich buttery sauce with hints of garlic and lemon pairs beautifully with shrimp, creating a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. Try it today and elevate your dinner game!
