![To make this dish shine, you need simple yet fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need: - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lemon, juice and zest - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (for serving) These ingredients create a delicious blend of flavors. The shrimp brings a sweet taste, while the lemon adds a bright zing. Garlic enhances the dish with a warm, savory touch. Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. Each ingredient plays a key role in making your Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp a standout meal. When you gather your ingredients, focus on freshness. Fresh shrimp will make a big difference. Look for shrimp that smell like the ocean and have a firm texture. Using fresh garlic and lemon ensures every bite bursts with flavor. For the best results, stick to unsalted butter. It lets you control the salt level. If you want to switch things up, try using ghee or plant-based butter. These options can give your dish a unique twist while keeping it tasty. To learn how to prepare this lovely dish, check out the Full Recipe. It walks you through the steps to create a meal that impresses. First, I dry the shrimp with paper towels. This step helps the shrimp sear well. Next, I season them with salt and pepper. Just a pinch of each will do. Now, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, I carefully add the shrimp in a single layer. I cook them for 2-3 minutes until they start to turn pink. Then, I flip each shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes. When they are done, I remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium. Then, I add the butter and let it melt slowly. Once melted, I toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. I sauté this mix for about 1 minute. I want the garlic to smell great but not turn brown. Next, I stir in the lemon juice and zest. This adds a bright, tangy flavor to the sauce. I mix it well to combine, making sure every bite will be tasty. Now, I return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. I gently toss them in the buttery lemon garlic sauce. This step coats the shrimp, making them flavorful. I let them cook in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes. This ensures they are hot and fully cooked. Finally, I taste the dish, adjusting with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed. For serving, I place the shrimp over cooked quinoa or rice. I like to finish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright touch. Check out the Full Recipe for more details! Skillet temperature is key. A hot skillet helps the shrimp cook quickly. This keeps them tender. If your pan is too cool, the shrimp will steam instead of sear. This can lead to rubbery shrimp. Always preheat your skillet for best results. To avoid overcooking shrimp, cook them just until they turn pink. This usually takes 2-3 minutes per side. Remember, shrimp continue to cook after you remove them from the heat. You can substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter dish. If you want a vegan version, try coconut oil. Garlic is a must, but you can swap it with shallots for a sweeter taste. Adjust the spice level to your liking. Red pepper flakes add heat, but you can add less if you prefer milder flavors. A pinch of cayenne pepper also works well for a different kick. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley. It adds color and a burst of freshness. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest on top for extra zing. For serving, pair the shrimp with cooked quinoa or rice. Both options soak up the lemon garlic butter sauce well. You can also add a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal. {{image_2}} You can swap shrimp for scallops or fish. They cook quickly and absorb flavor well. For a vegetarian or vegan option, try using tofu or mushrooms. Both can soak up the lemon garlic butter sauce nicely. Want to mix things up? Use different citrus fruits like lime or orange. Each adds a unique twist to the dish. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or basil. They enhance the flavor and bring freshness to your meal. This dish is flexible! Serve it over pasta for a hearty meal. You can also use it as a topping for salads, adding a burst of flavor. For a fun dinner, create a seafood platter with sides like grilled veggies or crusty bread. Each option showcases the deliciousness of lemon garlic butter shrimp. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To keep leftover lemon garlic butter shrimp fresh, place it in an airtight container. This helps avoid any strong smells in your fridge. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. The shrimp will taste best when eaten fresh, but you can still enjoy it as a leftover. If you want to save some shrimp for later, freezing works well. First, let the shrimp cool completely. Next, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the shrimp for up to three months. To enjoy your frozen shrimp, take them out and thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can run the bag under cold water for quicker thawing. For reheating, warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat. This will keep them tender and help maintain their flavor. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of butter to rehydrate them while reheating. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. You have many great options for sides. Here are some of the best ones: - Cooked quinoa or rice - Garlic bread or crusty bread - Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus - A light salad with mixed greens and lemon vinaigrette For drinks, I suggest a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. It pairs well with the lemon and shrimp. A chilled rosé can also be nice. Cooked shrimp change color. They turn from gray to a bright pink. They also curl into a C shape. Here's what to check: - Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. - The internal temperature should reach 120°F. Always avoid overcooking. This keeps shrimp tender and juicy. Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Here’s how: - Cook the shrimp, then cool them. - Store in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat: - Reheat on low heat in a skillet. - Add a little butter or oil to help keep the flavor. Keep in mind, making it ahead may change the texture slightly. Fresh shrimp always taste best! Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a tasty dish with simple steps. We started with essential ingredients like shrimp, butter, garlic, and lemon. You learned how to prepare shrimp and make a flavorful sauce. Tips helped you perfect your cooking method and enhance flavors. Variations show that you can use different proteins and spices, making this dish your own. Finally, I shared storage info to keep leftovers fresh. Enjoy making this dish and share it with others!](https://homecookingstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5bd501e3-700e-4ebf-b33f-8fff614a44e8-250x250.webp)
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Savor the deliciousness of Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with this quick and easy recipe! This dish features succulent shrimp coated in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it over your favorite quinoa or rice for a complete meal. Discover how to whip this up in just 20 minutes and impress your family and friends. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your dining experience!