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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results. If you’re allergic or don’t have shrimp on hand, you can substitute with scallops or even firm fish like chicken breast cut into small pieces.

Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, you can use olive oil or vegan butter instead. It might slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh really enhances the dish. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove.

Lemon: Fresh lemon juice gives a bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice can work, but fresh is always better! You can also try lime juice for a different twist.

Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have it, try basil or cilantro. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount to about 1 tablespoon.

How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?

Getting shrimp just right is key! Here’s how you can cook them perfectly every time:

• Make sure the shrimp are thawed if frozen and dry them thoroughly with paper towels.
• Cook shrimp in a hot skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
• Don’t crowd the pan! Give them space to cook evenly. You can do this in batches if needed.

Remember, shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them! Once they curl into a C shape, they’re usually just about done.

How to Make Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off based on preference)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons) plus 2 lemon slices for garnish
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for cooking)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 5-7 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal that’s ready to enjoy in just around 15-20 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and then patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure they don’t steam when you cook them. Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

In a large skillet, heat the butter with olive oil (if using) over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant but be careful not to brown it.

3. Cook the Shrimp:

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for about 2 minutes without stirring—they should start turning pink and develop a slight sear. Then, flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are fully opaque and cooked through.

4. Add the Lemon and Seasonings:

Pour in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, if you like a bit of spice. Give everything a good stir to coat the shrimp in the tangy sauce. Allow it to simmer for 1 more minute to let the flavors meld together.

5. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top of the shrimp. Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with lemon slices for a fresh look. It’s best served hot, and goes perfectly over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to enjoy the sauce!

Enjoy your delicious, zesty Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the frozen shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture.

What Can I Substitute for Butter?

If you need a dairy-free option, olive oil works great as a substitute for butter. You could also use vegan butter for a closer taste. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?

While shrimp are best cooked fresh, you can prepare the garlic and lemon juice mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook the shrimp just before serving to ensure they remain tender and juicy!

How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp?

Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to refresh the dish while reheating!