Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp

This garlic butter shrimp recipe is quick, simple, and packed with rich, savory flavors. The shrimp are sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, giving them a tender and juicy texture, with just the right touch of lemon and herbs to bring it all together. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, date night, or as an appetizer for a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they cook properly. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.

Cook the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is fully melted and starts to bubble slightly, add the minced garlic. Stir the garlic constantly and cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden, but be careful not to burn it.

Cook the Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start turning pink. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked, pink, and opaque.

Add Red Pepper Flakes (Optional):
If you like a little heat, sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the shrimp and stir it in for an extra kick. Continue cooking for an additional 30 seconds to let the spice blend with the garlic butter.

Finish with Lemon Juice:
Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, tossing them in the pan to coat in the buttery sauce. The acidity of the lemon brightens the rich garlic butter, balancing the flavors perfectly.

Garnish and Serve:
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and sprinkle fresh, chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for a zesty, refreshing finish.

Tips:

• For Extra Flavor: For an even richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine or a little chicken broth after cooking the shrimp, letting it reduce slightly to thicken.
• Serve It With: This garlic butter shrimp goes wonderfully with pasta, a side of rice, or even over a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Customize It: Add your favorite herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for additional flavor variations. You could also toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach to make it a more complete meal.