Ingredients
This recipe uses minimal ingredients, focusing on fresh flavors and quality. Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary delight:
- Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp will work. Look for shrimp that is already peeled and deveined to save even more time. The size of the shrimp is up to your preference, but larger shrimp are more substantial and satisfying.
- Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter. Butter is the foundation of that rich, decadent sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Garlic: 6 cloves of garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is absolutely essential for that pungent, aromatic flavor that is the hallmark of this dish. Don’t skimp on the garlic!
- White Wine: ¼ cup of dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc). White wine adds acidity and depth of flavor to the sauce, deglazing the pan and creating a beautiful base for the garlic butter. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute chicken broth or extra lemon juice.
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the butter and garlic, and adding a zesty freshness. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for the most vibrant flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley. Parsley adds a pop of fresh, herbaceous flavor and a beautiful green color as a garnish. Flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley) or curly parsley both work well.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional). A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth and a hint of spice to balance the richness of the garlic butter. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Salt: To taste. Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish and is crucial for seasoning the shrimp and the sauce. Kosher salt or sea salt are recommended.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent, aromatic spice and complements the garlic and lemon.
Instructions
This recipe is incredibly quick and easy to follow. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have restaurant-quality garlic butter shrimp on your table.
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure it is completely thawed. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the shrimp to sear properly and not steam in the pan. Drying the shrimp will also help the garlic butter sauce cling to it better.
- Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Stir constantly and reduce heat if necessary. The aroma of sautéed garlic is one of the most enticing smells in cooking!
- Add White Wine and Lemon Juice: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld together. This step creates the foundation of your delicious garlic butter sauce. Simmering the wine reduces its alcohol content and intensifies its flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery. Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them. The color change from gray to pink is a good indicator of doneness.
- Finish with Parsley and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Toss to combine, ensuring the shrimp are coated in the flavorful garlic butter sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot and fragrant. The fresh parsley adds a final burst of freshness and visual appeal to the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 30g