Ingredients
Core ingredients:
- Shrimp: Medium to large, peeled and deveined
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, finely minced or thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: For the rich, creamy base
- Olive oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds depth of flavor
- Lemon juice: Brightens the dish and complements the richness of the butter
- Parsley: Freshly chopped for a burst of color and subtle flavor
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Optional ingredients:
- Red pepper flakes: For a hint of spice
- White wine: Adds complexity and enhances the sauce’s depth
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra savory kick
Instructions
1. Prepare the shrimp:
- Ensure the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted dry with paper towels. This helps them cook evenly and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.
2. Sauté the garlic:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
3. Cook the shrimp:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in a rubbery texture.
4. Finish with lemon and parsley:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
5. Serve and enjoy:
- Transfer the garlic butter shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with extra lemon wedges and parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes